Atlanta is a major hub for hip-hop and rap music, producing some of the genre's most famous artists such as Outkast, Ludacris, and T.I. The city's music scene has also expanded to include other genres like rock and electronic dance music. Venues such as the Tabernacle, Terminal West, and the Masquerade host a variety of performances year-round, while festivals like Music Midtown and Shaky Knees draw in big crowds. The city also has a rich history of gospel music, with the annual Atlanta Gospel Fest attracting worshippers from all over the country.
Atlanta is known for its diverse cultural offerings, from museums and galleries to historic landmarks and cultural festivals. The High Museum of Art is a must-visit destination for art lovers, with a collection that spans more than 17,000 works of art. The Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site is located in Atlanta, which includes the birth home of the civil rights leader, the Ebenezer Baptist Church, and the King Center. Other notable attractions include the Fox Theatre, the Georgia Aquarium, and the World of Coca-Cola.
Atlanta played a significant role in the American Civil War, serving as an important transportation hub for the Confederate States. After the war, the city emerged as a major center for commerce and industry, with businesses like Coca-Cola and Delta Airlines establishing their headquarters in the city. Atlanta also played a pivotal role in the civil rights movement and was the birthplace of Martin Luther King Jr., who led many of the movement's most important protests and initiatives. Today, Atlanta is a major metropolitan area with a population of more than six million people, and it continues to be a center for business, culture, and entertainment in the Southeast.