During the Great Migration of the 20th century, millions of African Americans left the rural South to seek better economic and social opportunities in the urban North. This exodus had a profound impact on the musical landscape of Nebraska, particularly in cities like Omaha and Lincoln. As African American musicians migrated to these new destinations, they brought with them their unique musical styles, eventually influencing the local music scenes and contributing to the diversity of Nebraska's rich musical heritage.

One notable example of this phenomenon is the Omaha-based musician, Preston Love. Born in 1921, Love was a renowned jazz saxophonist and bandleader who performed with several notable artists, including Billie Holiday and Duke Ellington. Love's musical style, shaped by his Southern roots, reflected the influences of blues and swing. His presence in Omaha helped establish the city as a hub for jazz and blues music in the Midwest. Furthermore, the city's vibrant music scene during the 1940s and 1950s attracted other prominent musicians, including the legendary trumpet player, Nat King Cole, who occasionally performed in Omaha.

Another significant aspect of African American music migration in Nebraska is the development of blues and R&B music in the state. The Dreamland Cafe, a popular music venue in Omaha's Near North Side, served as a hotspot for local and touring musicians during the 1940s and 1950s. This club was instrumental in launching the careers of local musicians like Wynonie Harris, who went on to become a prominent figure in the blues scene. Similarly, musicians like Guitar Slim and Magic Slim were influential in shaping the blues and R&B sound of post-war Nebraska.

The contributions of African American musicians to Nebraska's music scene can also be observed in the realm of higher education. The University of Nebraska-Lincoln's School of Music offered music programs that catered to the interests and talents of African American students, providing opportunities for them to engage with and perform various musical genres. Moreover, institutions like the Malcolm X Center in Omaha and the African American Art and Culture Complex in Lincoln played a pivotal role in promoting and preserving the rich cultural heritage of the African American community in Nebraska.

In conclusion, African American music migration to Nebraska significantly impacted the state's musical landscape, introducing new styles and influencing the local music scene. The influx of talented musicians not only enriched the state's cultural heritage but also helped establish Nebraska as a notable destination for blues, jazz, and R&B music enthusiasts.