If there is a Mecca for the musically religious in America,
it would have to be Memphis Tennessee, where soul, rock’n roll, and the blues
were created. Its most holy temples can be found at Beale Street, home to B.B.
King, Isaac Hayes, Elvis Presley, Roy Orbison, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Johnny
Cash.
Beale Street
Memphis Tennessee In the beginning there was brass. Sam
Thomas and his Young Men’s Brass Band brought music to Beale Street in 1867.
But a mighty plague of yellow fever wiped out most of the population of Memphis
in the 1870s, and just like that the music died.
It went on like this for two decades. Until one day Heaven
looked upon that sad town with mercy and sent it Robert Church. He begin in
1890 by building the Orpheum, formerly known as the Grand Opera House. Then in
1899 he created Church Park at the corner of 4th and Beale.
If Robert Church is the Moses of modern music, then Church
Park was the promised land. The 2,000 seat auditorium hosted many attractions.
Theater groups, traveling side shows, and even political speeches. It was the
music that drew in the crowds though.
In 1909 W.C. Handy moved to Memphis, and like a true
disciple he saw the vision of Robert Church. After a little worship at the
music clubs of Beale Street, the first miracle was granted. In 1912 Mr. Handy
published “Memphis Blues.” And with that just another street in just another
town became the corner stone of American music.
Living History
When you head to Memphis, Tennessee start your journey with
Beale Street. Only by visiting the beginning can you truly understand the
present. Peak into the museums to learn about its history, but spend some
serious time at the clubs to live it. There are about a lot of attractions you
can spot and revel at.
B.B. King’s Blues Club can be found at 143 Beale Street. The
Blues City Cafe offers great live music and tasty ribs. Club 152 has 3 floors
of music to satisfy your musical taste buds, whether it’s something old school
or modern you are seeking. And Mr. Handy’s Blues Hall on 174 Beale Street is
where the spirits of Memphis eat lunch, and create magic.
All of these places simply gives the real spirit of what
Memphis, Tennessee is all about. A tour in Beale Street will complete your
Tennessee experience and lets you feel the soul of legendary music.
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