JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Jacksonville has emerged as a top contender to become the permanent home of the National Rhythm & Blues Hall of Fame, a move that would bring a prestigious national museum to the city.
The city is currently being evaluated alongside four other finalists across the country: Jackson, Mississippi; Gary, Indiana; Detroit, Michigan; and Augusta, Georgia.
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The Hall of Fame is currently based in Detroit, but organizers are looking to establish a long-term, dedicated footprint. According to organization founder Lamont “Showboat” Robinson, Jacksonville’s deep-seated musical heritage makes it an exceptionally strong candidate for the project.
“Why we picked Jacksonville as a possible potential home is because of its history in Jacksonville as well as the history of Florida,” Robinson said, noting the region’s historic ties to legendary R&B figures such as Ray Charles and Jackie Moore.
Local residents and visitors have expressed immense enthusiasm for the prospect.
“Yeah, obviously it’s awesome,” said local resident Brahma Pulaka. Fellow resident Carmella McCaskill agreed, adding, “I think it’d be right on brand for Jax.”
The attraction would also serve as a major draw for tourism. Sheri Lelia, who was visiting the area, noted the museum’s broad appeal. “I think it would be a wonderful idea because I love R&B, and I think that it would just be an addition to this wonderful city,” Lelia said.
" It would make me feel as though Jacksonville understands our culture,” said Christopher Selby, a local who grew up with R&B music.
The institution has honored 300 music icons, including: Aretha Franklin, James Brown, Whitney Houston, Prince, Michael Jackson, and Elvis Presley.
Robinson also recently announced that country music icon Dolly Parton will join the ranks, officially being inducted into the 2027 class as a major contributor to the genre.
While organizers state that a final decision on the future location will be made within the next two to three weeks. The city said in a statement- We can confirm that the group interested in bringing the R&B Hall of Fame and a museum to Jacksonville has had an introductory meeting with Visit Jacksonville. However, no formal plan or proposal has been presented to Visit Jacksonville or the City. We decline to comment further while they formalize this effort. Additionally, no commitments of this nature will be made before Florida voters make their decision about property taxes in November.
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