Award-winning Christian singer Natalie Grant is helping make history in Nashville — not just with her voice, but now as part of a groundbreaking new project: the Museum of Christian & Gospel Music.

Opening October 3 in downtown Nashville just steps from the iconic Ryman Auditorium, the museum will celebrate the rich legacy of Christian and gospel music — a genre that Grant says has long deserved its place in the spotlight.

“This museum is long overdue in our wonderful city of Nashville,” Grant told The Christian Post. “Christian and gospel music are a big part of the fabric of this city, and they deserve their spot.”

Known for her powerful vocals and heartfelt performances, the five-time Dove Awards Female Vocalist of the Year winner is lending more than just her name to the new space. A dress worn by Grant at the Dove Awards will be featured in the museum’s display — and fans get to choose which of three memorable gowns makes the cut.

But for Grant, it’s about more than fashion. It’s about legacy.

“There are so many memories for me attached to these particular dresses,” she said, including one she wore while unknowingly pregnant with her daughter Sadie. “It’s going to be really fun to walk through the museum with my daughters … They were a part of it.”

The Museum of Christian & Gospel Music — or “The C&G” — is being presented by the Gospel Music Association and will feature interactive exhibits, artist stories, music milestones, and even remix stations where visitors can reimagine iconic Christian songs. The space will also host live performances, workshops, and a variety of special series, including one featuring Russ Taff as the museum’s first artist-in-residence.

Grant is especially moved by the museum’s location next to the Ryman, which she says has spiritual roots deeper than many realize.

“People look at the Ryman as the mother church of country music, but actually, the Ryman was originally a church that housed a revival,” she said. “There was a Bible before there were boots.”

After nearly thirty years in Christian music, Grant is using her platform to champion heritage and holiness. She encouraged younger artists to stay grounded, warning against chasing fame and emphasizing the importance of faith, community, and character.

“Don’t take the shortcut,” she advised. “Stay on the long road of obedience … and stay plugged into a local church.”

In a time when the music industry is rapidly changing, Grant believes the Gospel remains the steady anchor.

“There will be styles that come and go,” she said, “but the Word of God will remain.”

As the museum prepares to open, Grant hopes it will offer more than nostalgia—she prays it will shine a light.

“People think they’re going into a museum to see cool things,” she said. “But they’re going to walk through and see a thread. And that thread is Jesus.”