Downtown Memphis: Beale Street

Memphis

Memphis calls itself the birthplace of rock and roll and its historical contribution to the musical evolution of both soul and rock and roll is significant. One cannot help but wonder - how did it happen that so many musical artists and producers found themselves together in this small city, at a particular point in time (the late 50’s and 60’s) making music and selling it? It almost seems magical - although with the benefit of hindsight! From Elvis Presley to Otis Redding to Wilson Pickett, the names and faces of these musicians are well known to all of us. It is an extraordinary experience to explore the Staxx Museum of American Soul Music, Sun Studios which is still active today, and the Museum of Rock & Soul. Together they paint a historical perspective on the times, the influences of the local culture, and the context in which these musicians worked. It was absolutely marvelous!

Mud Island is worth a visit - it is a long peninsula located along the length of the Mississippi. A park runs along most of its length with a trail that offers lovely views of the river from a vantage point high above the water. Homes and apartments are located there and understandably so. It is lovely.

Memphis has an art museum and zoo, a botanical garden, Blues Foundation Hall of Fame, Music Hall of Fame and Civil Rights Museum which we skipped for a multitude of reasons. We headed instead over to Kansas City!