Roaming Times  > Memphis, TN, - Beale Street

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Memphis, TN - Beale Street
The home of the blues ...

Beale Street Memphis dates back more than 150 years, but it wasn't until 1977 that it was officially declared "the home of the blues" by an act of congress.  People now say it was also the birthplace of rock and roll.  There are other attractions in Memphis of course, for example Elvis Presley's Graceland Mansion, but Beale Street is really the place to go.

The history of Beale Street includes a major heyday period in the 1920's when murder, prostitution and voodoo were part of the thriving scene with famous names like Machine Gun Kelly and Little Ora (the best pickpocket for miles around.)  Today, people find Beale Street relatively safe and fun.  The music is great and the food is fabulous.

Memphis, Beale Street - picture by Roaming Times


My wife and I visited in July on a hot evening with a big crowd and wonderful atmosphere.  Just neon and the sound of blues blaring.  We went to the famous B.B. Kings – had their famous ribs and got a real treat in that the band was fantastic and the star was the “Queen of Beale Street” – Ruby Wilson.  Her performance was mesmerizing.  She commanded the audience as well as the band.

What do you think? - add your comment here

Adding to the story ... Readers comments:

KIRK-AMBASSADOR OF ROCK 'N' ROLL :  I loved Beale Street! The music is what you go for, and its given a greater vibe by the fact that this is where it came from. As much as I love Chicago Blues (yet to go , but it's on the list)those guys moved up there from the south. Most notably I guess is Howlin' Wolf, who started out just round the corner at Sun Records. Tell me you all went there! Me and my musician buddies were nearly ( but not quite, we're British doncha know!)moved to tears by the music that still resonates through the building and straight to your soul.I for one am glad Beale St. is tourist friendly. The locals we spoke to were all friendly enough, with a good sense of humour.It's kinda frustrating that they, including the musicians seem to take it for granted that they live in this city with it's great musical heritage.We were constantly told how big a deal it was over there when the Beatles landed, but the Beatles were inspired by the stuff that came out of that little aforementioned studio, which came from the heart and soul and lives of the musicians that lived in this part of the Southern States. It is in every sense of the words " real music"!Igot to sing "Hound Dog" in the Blues City Cafe with the band Freeworld at their cd launch party. Thanks very much guys, that was a dream come true!

steve :  A dream come true best experience ever had of visiting memphis and nashville

Cody :  I'm originaly from ND but when came down to Memphis, I wanted to move down there. One thing that happened down there is this 61 year old guy was on his scooter and started swirving and finally whiped out and when that hapenned he was like I'm so drunk I almost killed myself.Memphis is the best.

Jake :  I visited from the UK and what can I cay, I fell in love with memphis!! Saw Gracelane of course but Beale st really stood out to me, nothing like it back home! Had dinner in Stax (think its called that??) with a live band, and in the evening the atmosphere was buzzing!! Fantastic, will definitely be back one day!

Tyeisha :  It is a wonderful place to be, I try to go at least once a month. yea I love it that much and u should try it.

Jasmin :  Suzanna you are right it was Beal Street. the place that will stay in our minds forever! The place that showed us the beauty of music and history, and also food. It was great!!!!

Suzanna :  YES! It was Beal Street that took our mind deep into the blues. My friends and me went to Memphis from MS. Visiting Memphis... was an unforgettable travel. Emotions that overwhelmed us we saved for home, Russia...

rena :  i went to memhpis in may 2007 with my sister. we walked down beale st stopping and listening to the fantastic blues music coming out of every bar .we had the famous ribs we had been told so much about and they were wonderful. we also visited grace land a must for anyone going to memphis it was the high light of the trip for us the people were very friendly to . we are considing going back in the near future a trip not to be missed.

Sam :  Beale Street was a blast...The days of old are gone it now is the place for tourist which is great for the economy...which they clearly need...I would go back in a heartbeat...I have compassion for those that live in poverty..One still needs to be cautious to which way they walk...this given to me by the locals....I missed the famous people who sang the blues on this trip, not next time...Highly recommend it to those who love to walk outside a share the blues.

Connie :  There's nowhere quite like beale street, being going there for thirty years

Tony :  Just got home after 3 days in Memphis, I loved it. Beale Street is a place you can fall in love with. I recommend the ribs at the Blues City Cafe. Can't wait to go back.

What do you think? - add your comment here

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Memphis, TN - Beale Street
Beale Street Memphis dates back more than 150 years, but it wasn't until 1977 that it was officially declared "the home of the blues"

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Taking the tour at Graceland - Elvis Presley's house

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