Memphis, Tennessee, has a rich musical history that spans the genres of blues, rock, soul, country, and hip-hop. It’s often referred to as The Home of Blues, and it’s where the Blues Hall of Fame is located. Musicians like Johnny Cash, Aretha Franklin, Jerry Lee Lewis, Elvis Presley, and B.B. King got their start in the city along the Mississippi. Downtown Beale Street has always been a popular place to catch talented up-and-comers play live, and the Sun Studio is a place where tracks were recorded from the likes of U2, Def Leppard, and Roy Orbison.
Memphis is a mecca for music lovers who like to dive into history and also listen to present-day artists, which is why live music in Memphis is so popular! The next time you’re looking at Memphis houses for sale, catch a live local act at one of the many spirited venues in town.
B.B. King’s Blues Club (143 Beale Street)
Situated on a famed stretch of road, the Blues Club is the original location of what is now a franchise with locations all over the country. Blues, rock and roll, and soul artists take the stage several times a week. The venue serves up southern favorites like catfish bites, shrimp and grits, and platters of barbecue meats.
Lafayette’s Music Room (2119 Madison Avenue)
Lafayette’s is an indoor-outdoor venue that has bands playing every night of the week. They welcome local and national acts and cover the genres of rock and roll, acoustic, jazz, blues, and all that’s in between. In the 1970s this small venue helped launch acts like Billy Joel, KISS, and Barry Manilow. It’s a key stop, still, for many touring acts. Lafayette’s is also open for lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch, serving up po boys, wood-fired pizza, and Southern-inspired fare.
Tin Roof (315 Beale Street)
The Tin Roof is a laid-back joint to not only watch musicians play, but catch a conversation with one or two when they aren’t on stage. There’s a relaxed atmosphere, and musicians take the stage nearly every night the Roof is open. They do special events like Bottomless Mimosa Brunches and Drag Queen Bingo and have an array of bar food on the menu.
Handy Park Pavilion (200 Beale Street)
Handy Park is great for folks who love to enjoy the outdoors while jamming out to their favorite tunes. It’s located in the middle of Beale Street and is named after W.C. Handy, who is known as the Father of the Blues. There is a large stage and smaller performance area, and all shows are free and open to the public.
Center for Southern Folklore (119 South Main Street)
The Center serves music fans well, but it’s also a place for people who generally love the arts. The non-profit organization strives to the people, music, and traditions of the region through galleries, exhibits, and live shows.
Minglewood Hall (1555 Madison Avenue)
This indoor-outdoor venue sits in what was once a bread factory. It’s a staple for the local scene that brings in national, regional, and local acts of varying genres. The 1884 lounge within the hall is a chic spot with records on the walls that provides a more intimate listening experience.
If you have any hot tips for watching live music in Memphis, let us know!
*Collaborative post