Memphis, Tennessee, the city which is located on the banks of the mighty Mississippi River is a place that has long been steeped in the rich history of music. This “Blues City” has given birth to some of the most famous and influential musicians in the world. From blues, rock and roll, gospel, soul, and R&B, Memphis music has continued to inspire and influence generations after generations. In this article, we will be taking a deep dive into the timeless traditions of Memphis music – how they evolved and the impact they have had on the music industry worldwide.
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History of Memphis Music:
Memphis started developing into a music hub in the early 20th century with the Great Mississippi levee flood of 1927. African Americans from the Mississippi Delta flooded into Memphis and brought with them their music. With their arrival came Delta blues, which quickly gained popularity in the city. Blues was raw and expressive, speaking to the daily struggles of the African American population in the South at that time. The electric guitar and amplifier, both of which originated in Memphis, played a significant role in amplifying and popularizing blues music.
In the 1950s, Memphis produced another genre of music- rock and roll. This genre was birthed in Sun Studio, owned by Sam Phillips. Elvis Presley, who recorded his first hit song “That’s All Right (Mama)” at Sun Studio in 1954 was among the first musicians to put Memphis on the musical map. In later years, other rock and roll pioneers such as Jerry Lee Lewis, Johnny Cash, and Carl Perkins would record at the studio.
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The civil rights movement in the US had a tremendous impact on Memphis music. Musicians such as Otis Redding, Issac Hayes, and Al Green, who were influenced by blues, introduced Soul music to Memphis in the 1960s. Soul music, which blended elements of gospel, blues, and R&B became popular and helped to break down racial barriers in Memphis’s music scene.
From the 1970s through to the 1980s, Memphis’s musical diversity continued to grow with the emergence of Stax Records – a record label that was dedicated solely to R&B and soul music. Stax records produced iconic artists such as the Bar-Kays, Rufus and Carla Thomas, and the Staple Singers among others.
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Memphis Music Festivals:
Throughout the year, music festivals in Memphis attract thousands of tourists and locals. There are numerous festivals that happen annually, including the Beale Street Music Festival, the Blues Music Awards, the Memphis Music and Heritage Festival, and the Stax Museum’s Soulsville USA Festival.
The Beale Street Music Festival, which is held on the first weekend in May, has become one of the largest music festivals in the US. The festival presents a diverse range of music genres, from blues, rock, country, and hip-hop, to indie-rock, and electronica. Past performers have included B.B. King, Aretha Franklin, Wu-Tang Clan, and Stevie Ray Vaughan.
The Memphis Music and Heritage Festival, which is held on Labor Day weekend, is a celebration of Memphis music and arts. It features live performances by Memphis musicians and is held in a pedestrian-friendly environment that allows festival-goers to explore the rich history and culture of Memphis.
The Blues Music Awards, which were founded in 1980, allows fans and industry professionals to celebrate and honor the best blues musicians in the world. The awards ceremony is held annually at the Cook Convention Center in Memphis and is the highlight of the Blues music community.
The Stax Museum’s Soulsville USA Festival, held in late October annually, is a celebration of soul music tradition. The festival features performances from the best soul performers from Memphis and around the world.
Impact of Memphis Music:
Memphis music has had a significant impact on the wider music industry. Its influence can be shared through various artists worldwide, including the Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin, and the White Stripes, among others. Memphis music has also helped to shape music beyond the blues and rock genres, by helping to popularize Soul Music and R&B.
FAQs
1. Who is the father of Blues music?
W.C Handy, also known as the father of the blues, was an African American composer and musician who helped to shape the music genre.
2. Which Memphis record label produced soul music?
Stax Records was a Memphis record label that produced soul music between the 1960s – 1970s. The record label was also known for soul and R&B music genres.
3. Who recorded their first hit song at Sun Studio?
Elvis Presley, who went on to become one of the most famous musicians in the world, recorded his first hit song “That’s All Right (Mama)” at Sun Studio in 1954.
4. What is the biggest music festival in Memphis?
The Beale Street Music Festival is the largest music festival in Memphis, attracting thousands of tourists and locals from around the world.
Conclusion:
Memphis, the “Blues City,” continues to be a hub of music, drawing inspiration from its rich and diverse musical history. The city’s historic blend of blues, rock and roll, soul, and R&B has had a significant impact on the music industry worldwide. Festivals, live music venues, museums, and neighborhoods associated with Memphis music continue to attract tourists who flock to experience the legendary music of this iconic city.
