Grammy Museum Mississippi is set to turn the volume up with the debut of a special exhibit titled “80s Rock: The Wildest Decade in Music.”
Opening Friday, Sept. 26, to the general public, the showcase explores the rise of hair metal and glam metal – genres that ruled the charts and concert stages with loud guitars, booming rhythms, and big personalities yet often struggles for respect in the broader music industry.
The exhibit will feature iconic artifacts and memorabilia from some of the decade’s biggest names, including Mötley Crüe, Guns N’ Roses, Def Leppard, Ozzy Osbourne, and more. Some of the items that will be on display include:
- Ozzy Osbourne’s stage costume
- Mötley Crüe’s drum kit
- A smashed Guns N’ Roses bass
- Def Leppard’s Washburn bass
- Lita Ford’s Black Widow guitar
- Photographs snapped by acclaimed rock photographer Mark Weiss
“Not only is this genre of music one of my personal favorites, but the bands who were launching their careers on Sunset Strip during this decade made an impact on young people that has lasted for generations,” Grammy Museum Mississippi executive director Emily Havens said. “We’re here to give the bands of hair metal and glam metal their due credit and tell the story of one of the most under-appreciated genres of music in rock history.”
Before the exhibit’s official opening, the museum in Cleveland will host an exclusive event on Thursday, Sept 25, at 6 p.m. The evening will include a reception and program featuring members of Twisted Sister. Tickets to the event will go on sale to Grammy Museum Mississippi members on Aug. 27 for $50 each.
“80s Rock: The Wildest Decade in Music” will remain on display through 2026 and, in addition to the items on display, will include interactive opportunities such as a photo station in front of the iconic Whiskey a Go Go in L.A., where many from the era got their start.
