They call Memphis the home of the blues and the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll, so it’s no surprise that there’s an impressive pedigree of musical talent heralds from the city. Some huge names are well-known for their Memphean heritage, not least the King himself, Elvis Presley. There are, however, a considerable number that you might not be aware are from Memphis. Next time you look for some Memphis concerts, consider whether or not that’s a homegrown artist that you’re excited to see.
Isaac Hayes
A stalwart figure of the soul music community, Isaac Hayes, was born right here in Memphis. Almost from birth in 1942, Hayes followed his passion for music throughout the neighborhoods of Memphis. Arguably, his greatest accolade was winning an Academy Award for the soundtrack to the movie Shaft. His compelling and unique sound is most likely cultivated by his self-taught musical ability, with inspiration drawn heavily from the music scene in Memphis.
“Music is the reflection of self…” – Isaac Hayes
Booker T. Jones
Booker T. Jones is what people would call a true son of the city. He was born in Memphis. He was bred in Memphis. Memphis runs through his soul and through the many instruments that he so deftly played. Listen to Green Onions, and you can’t help but smile and conjure images of swinging blues rock clubs. Beyond his playing abilities, Booker was the creative force behind Stax Records’ which went on to release countless hits.
“Be the best that you can be at what you do…” – Booker T. Jones
Justin Timberlake
Not a name you’d necessarily expect to grace a list of blues and rock legends, but here we find Justin Timberlake. He was born in 1981 and grew to fame as one of NSYNC before launching his multi-platinum solo career. Throughout his musical catalog, you can hear the influence of Memphis. The River is a perfect example, full of raw and soulful sounds. Few realize that he was born in Memphis, but the city can certainly be proud of the ten-time Grammy Award winner.
“The most boring thing in the world? Silence.” – Justin Timberlake
Aretha Franklin
You’d be forgiven for thinking that Aretha was Detroit through and through. That just isn’t the case. She’s the jewel in Memphis’ crown. The Queen of Soul. He vocals are unmatched, and although her time in Memphis was short, the city clearly influenced her young talent. Classic tracks such as “Chain of Fools” and “I Say A Little Prayer” showcase that raw Memphis soul.
“Be your own artist, and always be confident in what you’re doing.” – Aretha Franklin
Al Green
If Aretha Franklin was the Queen of Soul, Al Green would certainly make for a good King to match. His voice was nothing short of miraculous and delivered soulful sounds that make any music fan delight. Let’s Stay Together regularly features on lists of the greatest records of all time, and that’s no surprise. Following his incredible music career, Al went on to become a reverend. Testimony to the welcoming, vibrant culture that was bestowed upon him as a child of Memphis.
“The music is the message, the message is the music.” – Al Green
Juicy J
Jordan Michael Houston, better known as Juicy J, is Memphis’ answer to hip-hop. One of the founding members of Three 6 Mafia, Juicy J, showed that there’s more to Memphis than just blues and rock ‘n’ roll. He enjoyed huge hits such as Stay Fly but also went on to have an impressive solo career that delivered the hustling Memphis spirit throughout.
“I stay in my own lane, and that’s the secret to my success.” – Juicy J
Key Takeaways
There’s more to Memphis than meets the eye. There’s certainly more than Elvis. There’s a melody and a story that’s woven into hundreds of careers. So, next time you’re listening to a record, and you hear that unmistakable soul and a deep blues resonance, do some investigation. You just might be listening to a son or daughter of Memphis.
