Celebrate the Legacy: Grammy Museum Honors Long Beach Band with Special Exhibit
Sublime Exhibit to Open at the Grammy Museum on March 27
The Grammy Museum is set to unveil a special exhibit, “Sublime: Straight From Long Beach,” on March 27, celebrating the 30th anniversary of the influential reggae-punk/alternative rock band Sublime’s self-titled album. The exhibit will showcase a range of artifacts, including handwritten lyrics to popular tracks such as “Wrong Way” and “Garden Grove,” along with early flyers, promotional materials, and the iconic white bucket hat worn by frontman Bradley Nowell in the “Badfish” music video.
“It’s incredible that we have sold so many albums and have not toured or written new music in 30 years — a true testament to our fans for keeping this dream alive,” remarked band member Bud Gaugh. “Seeing the Grammy Museum celebrate this chapter of our story with an exhibit is really meaningful to us. Thank you to the fans for all of the support; you are all crazy, and we are crazy in love with you!”
Formed in 1988 by Bradley Nowell (vocals, guitar), Bud Gaugh (drums), and Eric Wilson (bass), Sublime emerged from Long Beach, California. Their initial self-produced album, "40oz. To Freedom" (1992), along with the experimental "Robbin’ the Hood" (1994), paved the way for the breakout success of their self-titled third album. Tragically, Nowell passed away on May 25, 1996, shortly before the eponymous album was released on July 30, 1996. Despite not touring, the album sold over 9 million copies and topped alternative radio charts, becoming a genre-defining classic.
To accompany the exhibit, a special public program is scheduled for July 30. “Sublime’s music captured a unique moment in time, blending punk, reggae, ska, and alternative rock into a sound that was unmistakably their own,” said Kelsey Goelz, curator at the Grammy Museum. “This exhibit highlights the band’s cultural impact and the vibrant Long Beach scene that nurtured them. We’re excited to offer fans an intimate look at the legacy of Sublime and the enduring influence of their music.”
Nearly three decades after Nowell’s death, his son, Jakob Nowell, has joined original members Gaugh and Wilson on stage, demonstrating a remarkable musical synergy that has invigorated fans and initiated a new chapter in the Sublime legacy.
Looking ahead to 2026, Sublime will commemorate the 30th anniversary of their self-titled album with two special nights at the Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Morrison, Colorado, on April 17-18. This will mark the beginning of a year-long celebration honoring the classic 1996 album. Additionally, the band plans to debut their new touring music festival, Sublime Me Gusta, on May 9 at the Panther Island Pavilion in Fort Worth, Texas, and is also preparing to release a highly anticipated new album that year.
The Grammy Museum is located at 800 W Olympic Boulevard, Los Angeles.
