By Tiffany Isselhardt
The “Bowling Green in Song” exhibit at the Kentucky Museum at Western Kentucky University focuses on songs with the words, “Bowling Green” in the title or lyrics and introduces genres, musicians, and topics that will be examined in greater detail in sonic landscapes.
Though representing just a handful of the music inspired by or produced in the area, “Bowling Green in Song” identifies several key examples of how Bowling Green, Kentucky has influenced musicians who have had a profound impact upon the music industry—both within Bowling Green and nationally. While Bowling Green in Song does not focus on one genre specifically, the exhibit includes several bluegrass songs and musicians, as it is perhaps the genre most relevant in the Bowling Green area. Furthermore, other musicians that were influencers or influenced by bluegrass included are Cousin Emmy, the Everly Brothers, and Tammy Wynette.
“Bowling Green in Song” opened in June 2025, following completion and installation of the interpretive panels and three-dimensional elements. Photographs of the completed installation, and interpretive panels, are included on the report, and one appears with this article. The mini-exhibition is a preview of the forthcoming “Sonic Landscape” exhibit, which will open on September 6, 2025.
IBMA Foundation project grant funds were used for vinyl record album frames, painting the background mural, and printing interpretive panels.
RETURN to the September issue of The Cornerstone.
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