Grammy Museum to Celebrate Sublime’s Legacy with “Straight From Long Beach” Exhibit
The Grammy Museum has announced a major new exhibition, Sublime: Straight From Long Beach, honoring the 30th anniversary of Sublime’s iconic self-titled album. Opening March 27, 2026, the exhibit offers fans an intimate look into the band’s legacy, with a special public program scheduled for July 30, 2026.
Formed in 1988 in Long Beach, Sublime—comprised of Bradley Nowell, Bud Gaugh, and Eric Wilson—helped define a genre-blending sound that fused punk, reggae, ska, and alternative rock. Their early releases, including 40oz. to Freedom (1992) and Robbin’ the Hood (1994), laid the groundwork for their breakout third album. Tragically, Nowell passed away on May 25, 1996, just months before the release of their self-titled record on July 30, 1996. Despite the loss, the album became a massive success, selling over 9 million copies and cementing the band’s place in music history.
Reflecting on the band’s enduring popularity, Gaugh shared his appreciation for fans who have sustained Sublime’s legacy over the decades, noting the significance of being recognized by the museum. Curator Kelsey Goelz emphasized the band’s cultural impact, highlighting how their distinctive sound captured a unique moment in time while shaping the identity of the Long Beach music scene.
The exhibit will feature a range of rare and personal artifacts, including handwritten lyrics to hits like “Wrong Way” and “Garden Grove,” early promotional materials, instruments and equipment used by the original lineup, and the iconic white bucket hat worn by Nowell in the “Badfish” music video. Visitors will also be able to view rare live photography by Maggie St. Thomas, offering a deeper glimpse into the band’s history and creative energy.
Nearly three decades after Nowell’s passing, his son Jakob Nowell has joined original members Gaugh and Wilson onstage, sparking a renewed era for the band. The reunion has been met with widespread enthusiasm, including high-profile performances and new creative output.
The anniversary celebration extends beyond the museum. Sublime is set to perform two special shows at Red Rocks Amphitheatre on April 17–18, kicking off a year-long tribute to their 1996 album. The band will also debut a new touring festival, Sublime Me Gusta, beginning May 9 at Panther Island Pavilion in Fort Worth, Texas, marking the launch of what is expected to become a national event series.
In addition to live performances, Sublime is preparing to release a highly anticipated new album in 2026, signaling an exciting new chapter while honoring a legacy that has influenced fans for more than 30 years. With Sublime: Straight From Long Beach, the Grammy Museum brings that legacy into focus, celebrating a band whose music continues to resonate across generations.
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