Archives for November, 2009

On Memphis

Posted on Nov 02, 2009 under Indie Music Thoughts | No Comment

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It’s no surprise to hear that Memphis is the home of blues, brews, and barbecues. No matter how you stack (or, Stax) it, music roots run deep in this full-of-soul southern city. In fact, you can’t walk down Beale Street without passing a blues bar or barbecue joint within 10 seconds. The list of musicians hailing from this city reads like a who’s who of rhythm, blues, and soul, but it’s the dedication and commitment to the local music scene in modern times that keeps the spirit of soul alive. Music fans flock here every year for many fine festivals, a chance to visit historic Sun Studios, or get their Elvis on at Graceland. Memphis may not be the first city that fans think of when they’re marking down travel destinations, but for this writer’s money, it’s a trip well worth taking more than once to soak in all this traditional city has to offer. Forsaking rhinestones for grittier textures, this “other” Tennessee music capital provides less glitter and more groove.