25 Reasons We Rock: Rock Hall Revisited

The legends tell their tales here every day of the week.

by Jim Vickers | Mar. 20, 2012 | 4:00 AM

If you haven't been to the Rock Hall in years (or ever), it's time to commune with the greats. Since 2010, the museum has been working on a redesign to improve the experience. Here are a few of our favorite upgrades:

THE EARLY INFLUENCES: Don't skip over this start-of-the-tour exhibit (left), where new interactive listening stations let you hear Jimmie Rodgers' influence on Johnny Cash and how Bessie Smith shaped Janis Joplin's sound.

TWO WORDS, THE BEATLES: We love the Beatles artifacts on display, but the most compelling part of the tribute to the Fab Four are the mini documentaries — one for each album — that play continuously and offer insight into the band's writing and recording process. Hang out and watch them all.

IT'S ALL ABOUT THE SONGS: Step into one of seven new podlike kiosks on the museum's second level and choose from among the hundreds of Songs That Shaped Rock and Roll. No headphones are required in the semiprivate booths, but don't be surprised if a curious visitor stops by to check out what's playing.