FROM BLUES TO ROCK TO SOUL AND CRUNK, THE MEMPHIS MUSIC SCENE IS ORIGINAL AND DEEP

Sally Walker Davies

By , Local Expert, Memphis
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It's no surprise that the city's live music scene centers around Beale Street, made famous as the home of the blues during the early 20th century. Beale is full of live music, whether it is the raucous beat from the house band at B.B. King's to the more mellow tunes of a cover band at Alfred's.

Beale is a great place to just grab a cold drink and wander - and the only district in the city where doing so is perfectly legal. It's usually late afternoon when the cops shut the street down, cutting off traffic so the district becomes pedestrian-friendly. And that's when more street musicians open their cases and tune up their...  Read more »
  • 1

    Alfred's On Beale

    Local Expert Tip: "Alfred's offers the only roof-top patio on Beale, and it is a great place to hold court for the evening. Arrive around 8 and you can lurk in the background for a table opening. "

     
  • 2

    Silky O'Sullivan's

    Local Expert Tip: "Be sure to try the famous "Diver",a gallon of booze that comes in a bucket with straws for you and your friends. Just don't try to drink it alone! "

     
  • 3

    New Daisy Theatre

    Local Expert Tip: "New Daisy Shows are all ages, unless indicated otherwise. Minors aren't allowed on Beale after 11 p.m., but if the show at the New Daisy is all ages, then kids can enjoy the show, as long as they are with an adult."

     
  • 4

    Black Diamond

    Local Expert Tip: "This is a true late-night spot -- and the locals know it. The Black Diamond really starts getting interesting after 11 p.m., so don't even think of crossing the threshold until then."

     
  • 5

    Center For Southern Folklore

    Local Expert Tip: "The Center plays host to a lot of private parties in springtime, so be sure to check the schedule before making a plan to visit."

     
  • 6

    B.B. King's Blues Club

    Local Expert Tip: "This is one or the rare spots when an early show doesn't equal lame -- so don't worry about losing your cool factor if you visit during daylight hours. We won't tell, and you won't be sorry."

     
  • 7

    Blues City Cafe

    Local Expert Tip: "Check the schedule for Brad Birkedahl and the Burnin' Love Band; the former lead singer of the rockabilly group The Dempsey's and his merry men cover Elvis in a soulful way - and we would never call them a cover band. Elvis die-hards and those who'd never dream of listening to the King's music can find common ground here."

     
  • 8

    Young Avenue Deli

    Some of the best regional musicians play Young Avenue, and it is simply one of the best live music venues in town.

    Local Expert Tip: "The best spot in the whole bar is outside, if you can grab one of the tables. The music is still audible, you can carry on a conversation, and you can people watch the Cooper-Young scene from the comfort of the patio."

     
  • 9

    Rum Boogie Cafe

    Local Expert Tip: "There's usually a cover for Rum Boogie, even if you're just coming in for dinner."