SAVE THE GIST MUSIC COMPANY!

“A Legacy Worth Restoring — A Future Worth Building.

Since 1953, the Gist Music Company has stood as a cornerstone of Helena’s soul — a gathering place where sound, culture, and community converged. What began as a jukebox rental service bringing the voices of legends like B.B. King to local venues soon evolved into a hub of musical life: a store, a classroom, and a meeting ground for artists and dreamers. Within its walls, music icons including Elvis Presley, Sonny Boy Williamson, and Levon Helm all passed through, connecting Helena to the heart of American music history.

Today, this historic two-story building, constructed around 1900 and a major contributor to the Cherry Street Historic District, stands at a crossroads. Without your help, we risk losing not just a building — but a living chapter of Delta heritage. With your support, we can preserve and transform the Gist into a vibrant, multi-use cultural landmark — one that honors its legacy as a time capsule of Helena’s music history while creating new opportunities for the future.

The revitalized Gist will feature a live music venue, recording studio, music store, and housing for artist residencies. This vision blends historical preservation with economic and cultural growth, fueling downtown revitalization through tourism, local business, and the arts.

This isn’t just about saving a building — it’s about protecting a legacy and reigniting a cultural heartbeat that has inspired generations. Together, we can keep the spirit of The Gist alive, ensuring that its story continues to echo through Helena’s streets and across the Delta. Help us save “The Gist”! Help us keep the music playing.