Free State of Sound Music Exhibit at Navy Pier

Buddy Guy at Buddy Guy’s Legends in Chicago Illinois, January 6, 2019. (Photo by Paul Natkin/Getty Images)

Explore the legendary musical contributions of musicians, radio stations and homegrown musical gear from Illinois with the new exhibit, “The State of Sound: A World of Music From Illinois” at Navy Pier from April 27-August 27, 2023.

View artifacts from the exciting sonic history of Illinois including a bejeweled wah-wah pedal from blues icon Buddy Guy, a turntable from house music creator Frankie Knuckles, Alt-rock greats Wilco singer Jeff Tweedy’s hat, a Grammy Nomination Plaque from R&B legend Curtis Mayfield, a Diamond Sales Award for rock legends REO Speedwagon and more.

The exhibit showcases over 40 artifacts from Illinois musicians and spans genres including jazz, blues, house, rock, gospel, hip hop, r&b and folk. The free exhibit is located on the first floor of Navy Pier’s Festival Hall A.