The Georgia Music Collections from the University of Georgia Libraries represents key players in every genre, from the beginnings of Soul and R&B in Macon and Augusta to the birth of alternative rock and new wave in Athens and the rise of southern Hip-Hop in Atlanta. Guests visiting Akins Ford Arena can explore Georgia's rich music history through a thematic display of original music artifacts and interactive displays.
Guests can explore the Georgia Music Collections any time they attend an event at Akins Ford Arena, with exhibits located throughout the Main Concourse and Suite Level.
Want a deeper dive? Join us during select Third Thursday events for a guided tour and an inside look at rare artifacts, stories behind the scenes, and interactive experiences that celebrate Georgia’s musical roots.
Stay tuned for upcoming tour dates and details!
Explore a collection of over 200 artifacts spanning eight decades of Georgia music history. You’ll see guitars from legends like Duane Allman and Chet Atkins, performance outfits worn by Cindy Wilson and Bill Anderson, tour shirts, backstage passes, and so much more!
Step Into the Sound: Permanent Interactive Experiences
A touch table at the main entrance invites visitors to explore music history entries from the New Georgia Encyclopedia
"Set the Stage," where visitors can design their own concert venue
"Play Along Piano," where visitors can play recognizable tunes.
Brought to you by the Georgia Power Company
"Do You Know Georgia Music," a trivia game where visitors can test their knowledge of Georgia Music History
You'll find more music history when you head upstairs to the suite level! There are displays of gold records, show fliers and posters, and album covers drawn from the Georgia Music Collections from the University of Georgia Libraries. Visitors can also discover Athens Potluck – a photography project created by Jason Thrasher. Potluck tells an organic story about the Athens music scene through a series of photographs and stories of 33 musicians.
Visit the Georgia Music Collections from the University of Georgia Libraries when attending an event at Akins Ford Arena!
