Memphis, TN—otherwise known as the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll—has hosted music icons like the King himself, Elvis Presley. Pay tribute to the legends at the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum.
The Ditty on the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum
This destination’s located on one of America’s most famous streets: the festival, concert, and blues club hub known as Beale Street. It celebrates the city’s incredibly rich musical legacy dating back to the 1930s and traces the accomplishments of Memphis’ famed musicians, music producers, and record companies.
The museum pays particular homage to the development of soul music, which arose from gospel, R&B, and the Black community’s culture and struggles for racial justice. This storied site finds its own roots with the Smithsonian Institution’s Rock ‘n’ Soul Social Crossroad exhibition. When the Smithsonian gifted the exhibit to Memphis in 2000, the museum was born.
Visit Preparations
The museum opens its doors every day (save certain holidays) at 10 in the morning. You’ll want to arrive early because you may easily find yourself getting lost in the immersive music and exhibits before closing time at 5 PM. For adults, the price of admission is $13, but if you bring along kids, the cost drops to $10 for them. And if the child is four or under, it’s free admission.
Residents of Shelby County, regardless of age, also enjoy free admission every Tuesday. Private party bookings and group discounts are available. Score a Backstage Pass and you can reduce admissions fees at the museum and at other local attractions such as Graceland and the Memphis Music Hall of Fame. The admission desk offers a memorable $10 audio walking tour of Beale Street as well.
Can’t-Miss Exhibits
Learn how rural culture in the Mississippi Delta shaped the gospel, country, and blues music that thrived in the region. And follow along the historical timeline as the River City’s emerging music tradition helped bring segregated communities together in shared love and appreciation. Another exhibit highlights the influence of Sam Phillips’ Sun Records on the rock ‘n’ roll revolution.
The equal impact of soul music on African American identity and the quest for social change are brought to life too via exhibits like the Bravo Gallery. Historical instruments and costumes are found in each of the seven galleries.
Memphis, TN Iconic Audio
What would a music museum be without an incredible sampling of the star attractions? This museum provides an MP3 audio guide that includes over three hours’ worth of fascinating oral history. Better yet, 100-plus songs represent the very best of Memphis sound from the time it all began in the thirties until the historical heights of the seventies. A trio of audio-visual programs rounds out the full experience.
With cutting-edge audio technology like QLS and Clari-Fi, the Harman Kardon stereo system–available on Subaru models from the Accent to the Outback–will enable you to enjoy crisp, clear tunes in the comfort of your own ride.
Don’t settle for less than premium. Visit Jim Keras Subaru Hacks Cross for an inventory made to deliver.
Photo Courtesy of Pexels
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