Memphis Blues, BBQ, B.B. King

Worth the trip!

The street is open to foot traffic only in the evening.

Beale Street was booming in the roaring 20s. Gambling, prostitution, moonshine, pickpockets, shootings, and jug bands. Yes, even then, music played a prominent role. Today’s Beale Street is a short stretch, about 3 blocks, full of music clubs, bars, restaurants and souvenir shops. It is far less frenetic than Broadway in Nashville, but Grittier. The times have changed, booze is legal, the music has an international reputation, sure. But, there is still of sense of struggle, racial strife, and a strong police presence. 

There are music notes in the sidewalk, like the stars on Hollywood Blvd. Some names are easily recognizable , others more obscure unless you are a true Blues fan. B.B. King’s club is considered the best place to watch live music, and the food is good too. We hung out with local beer, chicken fried chicken, Mac n cheese, and a shrimp po’ boy. We heard 2 great bands. Flic’s Pic’s Band and P.S. Band. Flic was the quiet dude in the back playing the bass. He is also a member of the rock n’ roll hall of fame legend named Leroy Hodges. We had to pay a $3 cover, although most clubs have no cover charge. It was worth it!

We were staying at the Graceland RV Park and Campground, right next to Graceland. This also gave us a free shuttle to Sun Studios and Beale Street in the daytime, and a $5 shuttle at night. Such a deal!

If you aren’t camping, there is a hotel at Graceland....decorated just the way Elvis would want! If you are in Memphis, you won’t be able to resist a trip to see the King, as well as a visit to B.B. King’s club on Beale.

W.C Handy, father of the Blues