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NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The National Museum of African American Music (NMAAM) has announced Grammy award-winning artist and performer Jody Watley as its inaugural membership ambassador. To celebrate, she will host a virtual Members Chat with members of the NMAAM leadership team on Thursday, March 25.
Born in 1959, Watley, an iconic singer and songwriter, rose to fame as a pop and R&B star who spanned many genres. Some of her most notable music was birthed out of the group Shalamar. It soared to fame in the ’70s and ’80s, especially in Europe.
Jody Watley to host virtual event with NMAAM
Becoming the first-ever ambassador of the museum, which opened in January, Watley will have an exclusive, sit-down chat with members of the management team. Together, they’ll join paid members of NMAAM on a virtual platform to discuss the museum and Watley’s career and contributions. The museum will share a private link with members.
NMAAM remains the only museum in the world dedicated solely to preserving African American music traditions. It serves to celebrate the central role African Americans have played in shaping American music.
Through Watley and its ambassadorship program, the museum hopes to promote its message to an even wider audience. The goal is to encourage greater conversation around the contribution of Black music and culture to the American soundtrack.
“I’m excited to use my voice to share the story of the National Museum of African American Music and bring it to a broader audience,” Watley said. “There has never been a museum like this before, and I am thrilled to be a part of it as the museum’s inaugural membership ambassador. I urge everyone who loves music to come see and support this museum.”
“Black music finally has a home” and a spokesperson
Membership benefits include unlimited admission, invitations to members-only experiences, discounts to the museum gift shop and more. Moreover, guests who sign up for a membership in March will receive a three-month extension. It’s free if using the discount code “JODY.”
“We are delighted to bring Jody Watley to the NMAAM team as our membership ambassador,” said Kara Duke, development and membership manager at NMAAM. “Black music finally has a home, and with the support of stakeholders like Ms. Watley, we can make sure it will be here to inspire visitors for years to come.”
To learn more about NMAAM’s inaugural ambassador, those interested can visit https://directme/jodywatley.