New exhibit shows connection between public housing and music

New exhibit shows connection between public housing and music
Lupe Fiasco is one of the artists featured in the new exhibit. WBEZ/Natalie Moore
New exhibit shows connection between public housing and music
Lupe Fiasco is one of the artists featured in the new exhibit. WBEZ/Natalie Moore

New exhibit shows connection between public housing and music

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The Chicago-based National Public Housing Museum is unveiling a new exhibit on Nov. 16.

The museum says the exhibit, called “The Sound, the Soul, the Syncopation,” is the first comprehensive look at music created exclusively by artists who have lived in public housing.

Musicians from nearly every genre are represented in the interactive exhibit, including Chicagoans Dinah Washington and Lupe Fiasco. The Chicago Housing Authority Youth Orchestra and the Cabrini-Green marching band are also featured.

Other artists include Kenny Rogers, Barbra Streisand and Elvis.

Todd Palmer is one of the exhibit’s curators. He spoke on WBEZ’s Morning Shift.

“Public housing often cultivated their musical talent; it was a place where people were educated in music,” Palmer said.

The museum is partnering with Chicago-based startup Groovebug to showcase the exhibit’s music, photos and videos on its popular iPad application.

“The Sound, the Soul, the Syncopation” runs through March 15 at Expo 72 Gallery in the Loop.