Summary
Just South of Beale at FedExForum, 191 Beale St, Memphis, TN 38103-3715, USA
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Phone +1 901-205-2533
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Memphis’ Rock ‘N’ Soul Museum is one of the only institutions in the country that tells the complete story of rock and soul music. It takes you to the fields where sharecroppers sang as they worked to the studios where Elvis Presley recorded the greatest hits of all time. The museum is located at a historical spot—the corner of Beale Street (where stars still sing all night) and B.B. King Avenue, nicknamed the Blues Highway. The museum is interactive, allowing visitors to enjoy singing and dancing throughout their time there. Here’s everything you need to know for a visit.
History
When the Smithsonian Institution was celebrating its 150th anniversary, it embarked on various research projects about important American topics. One of those projects garnered such high interest that it ultimately became the Memphis Rock ‘N’ Soul Museum.
Originally, the museum was situated in the Gibson Guitars factory. This marked the first time the Smithsonian set up a permanent exhibit outside of New York and Washington, D.C. In 2004, the museum relocated to its current location in the plaza of the FedEx Forum, enhancing its accessibility.
Exhibits
- Rural Culture: Explore the Mississippi Delta, where farm workers belted out melodies while laboring, leading to the creation of a new music genre.
- Rural Music: Uncover how workers in the fields invented gospel hymns at church and heartfelt ballads at home, contributing to a musical revolution.
- Coming to Memphis: Discover how sharecroppers relocated to Memphis for jobs in cotton mills and warehouses, bringing their music with them, which thrived on Beale Street and was shared through radio waves.
- Sun Records & Youth Culture: Learn about how musicians who couldn’t afford fancy studios made their way to Sun Records, launching the careers of unknown talents from B.B. King to Elvis Presley.
- Soul Music: Delve into the story of how labels like STAX recorded various Black musicians who walked in from the streets, many of whom became legends.
- Social Changes: Explore the influence of the civil rights revolution on the rock ‘n’ roll movement and how musicians played pivotal roles in the civil rights movement.
- Bravo Gallery: Highlighting influential figures (some lesser known) whose music dramatically transformed the landscape of the music industry.
- Temporary Exhibits: The museum hosts rotating exhibits that dive deeper into specific themes; for example, the “King of the Screen” exhibit focused on Elvis Presley’s cinematic career.
How to Visit
The museum is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. The final admission is at 6:15 p.m. However, the museum remains closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. If you’re also interested in visiting the Memphis Music Hall of Fame located on Beale Street, consider purchasing a combo ticket for added value.
Discounts are available for AARP members, AAA, military personnel, and Smithsonian members. Additionally, Shelby County residents can enjoy free admission on Tuesdays with proof of residency.
Situated in downtown Memphis at the bustling corner of Beale Street and B.B. King Avenue, the museum is also in the plaza of FedExForum, home to the Memphis Grizzlies NBA team, making it a must-see destination.
What to Do Nearby
The museum occupies a prime spot in the heart of downtown Memphis. Located along Beale Street, a pedestrian-only thoroughfare, visitors can experience the rich musical heritage where legends like B.B. King originally launched their careers. Numerous bars and clubs offer the chance to hear live music, and street performers often entertain passersby. In addition, street food and restaurants serve authentic Memphis comfort foods, making the area even more appealing.
Music enthusiasts should not miss the nearby Music Hall of Fame, where you can gain further insights into the lives of Memphis music legends.
Moreover, the museum is situated within the FedEx Forum, a large entertainment complex. If you’re visiting during basketball season, consider attending a Memphis Grizzlies game; it’s a lively experience that unites the city in support of its team.
