20 Songs About Memphis

Exploring songs about Memphis reveals a rich tapestry of musical tributes that span genres, eras, and emotions. This journey through melodies and lyrics offers a unique lens to view the cultural and historical significance of this iconic city, spotlighting how artists have captured its essence in their work.

1. “Walking in Memphis” by Marc Cohn

“Walking in Memphis” stands as Marc Cohn’s most iconic track, deeply inspired by his personal journey to the heart of Memphis culture. The song reflects Cohn’s awe and reverence for the city’s rich musical heritage, capturing the spirit of Memphis through its compelling narrative and soul-stirring melody.

The impact of “Walking in Memphis” on Marc Cohn’s career cannot be overstated; it catapulted him to fame, earning him a place in the pantheon of distinguished singer-songwriters. This song not only showcased his storytelling prowess but also his ability to evoke the essence of a place so central to America’s musical landscape.

2. “Memphis Soul Stew” by King Curtis

“Memphis Soul Stew” by King Curtis is a celebration of Memphis’ rich musical heritage through its vibrant blend of instrumental sounds. This track stands out for its ability to encapsulate the essence of Memphis music without uttering a single word.

King Curtis masterfully combines saxophone, guitar, drums, and other instruments to cook up a ‘stew’ that is as flavorful and diverse as the city’s own cultural landscape. The result is an instrumental piece that not only pays homage to Memphis’ musical roots but also highlights Curtis’s extraordinary talent as a musician.

3. “Memphis, Tennessee” by Chuck Berry

“Memphis, Tennessee” by Chuck Berry showcases the legendary musician’s knack for storytelling through the medium of rock and roll. Berry’s lyrics, combined with his vibrant guitar playing, create a vivid narrative that compliments Memphis’s own storied past.

The song’s storyline, focusing on a heartfelt long-distance call to Memphis, not only highlights Berry’s skill as a lyricist but also serves as a musical homage to the city, embedding itself into the fabric of Memphis’s rich cultural narrative.

4. “The Letter” by The Box Tops

“The Letter” by The Box Tops, recorded at the iconic American Sound Studio in Memphis, quickly became a defining moment for the band and the city’s musical legacy. This song’s energetic delivery and catchy melody captured audiences’ hearts, propelling it to the top of the charts with remarkable speed.

Its recording in Memphis, a city known for its influential music scene, played a pivotal role in the song’s authentic sound and success. The fusion of Memphis’s musical atmosphere with The Box Tops’ youthful energy created a timeless hit that continues to resonate with listeners worldwide.

5. “Soul Man” by Sam & Dave

“Soul Man” by Sam & Dave is not just a song; it’s a testament to the monumental role of Stax Records in shaping Memphis music history. This track, with its electrifying energy and soulful delivery, became synonymous with the Stax sound that dominated the airwaves.

Through “Soul Man,” Sam & Dave brought the quintessential Memphis sound to a global audience, showcasing the unique blend of gospel, blues, and raw emotion that Stax Records was known for. It stands as a shining example of how Stax and its artists like Sam & Dave have left an indelible mark on music history.

6. “In the Ghetto” by Elvis Presley

“In the Ghetto” by Elvis Presley, recorded at the famed American Sound Studio in Memphis, presents a poignant social commentary set against the backdrop of a city known for its musical richness and cultural divisions. This song marked a significant moment in Presley’s career where he ventured into more narrative-driven, socially conscious music.

Elvis’s powerful rendition, coupled with the song’s association with Memphis’ American Sound Studio, not only highlights the city’s musical significance but also its role in mirroring and sometimes challenging the social issues of its time. “In the Ghetto” remains a critical piece in understanding how Memphis music has been a conduit for discussing social challenges.

7. “I’ve Been to Memphis” by Lyle Lovett

“I’ve Been to Memphis” by Lyle Lovett uses the artist’s signature storytelling technique to paint a vivid picture of life in Memphis. Through his lyrics, Lovett invites listeners into a narrative that captures the city’s soulful rhythms and vibrant culture.

Lovett’s detailed descriptions and character-driven stories in this song offer a unique perspective on Memphis, blending the lines between personal journey and the collective experience of the city’s inhabitants. His narrative skill not only entertains but also enriches our understanding of Memphis’s essence.

8. “Graceland” by Paul Simon

“Graceland” by Paul Simon is more than a song about a trip to the famous Memphis landmark; it’s a poignant reflection on a personal journey of healing and discovery. Simon’s lyrical pilgrimage to Graceland intertwines with themes of longing, redemption, and the search for meaning, making the song resonate on multiple levels.

Through “Graceland,” Paul Simon encapsulates the spiritual essence of the Memphis site, transforming it into a metaphor for the quest for grace and personal connection. This track not only pays homage to a significant cultural location but also explores the depths of the human experience.

9. “Maybe It Was Memphis” by Pam Tillis

“Maybe It Was Memphis” by Pam Tillis stands as a heartfelt tribute to the city from a country music perspective. Through Tillis’s passionate vocals and the song’s evocative lyrics, listeners are transported to a place that feels both timeless and deeply rooted in Memphis’s rich cultural tapestry.

This song showcases how Memphis’s influence transcends genre boundaries, making a significant impact on country music. Pam Tillis captures the city’s soulful vibrance and romantic allure, highlighting Memphis’s unique place in the American musical landscape.

10. “Whoop That Trick” by Terrance Howard

“Whoop That Trick” by Terrance Howard, featured in the movie “Hustle & Flow,” plays a crucial role in both the film’s narrative and its portrayal of the Memphis rap scene. The song embodies the gritty, raw energy of the city’s streets, reflecting the struggles and aspirations of its characters.

This track not only contributes to the authenticity of the movie’s setting but also shines a spotlight on the vibrant and resilient Memphis rap community. Through “Whoop That Trick,” Terrance Howard brings to life the visceral power of music as a form of expression and survival in Memphis.

11. “Green Onions” by Booker T. & the MGs

“Green Onions” by Booker T. & the MGs is an instrumental hit that quintessentially captures the essence of Memphis music. The organ-driven groove, combined with its laid-back rhythm, encapsulates the city’s cool yet vibrant spirit.

This track not only exemplifies the skill of Booker T. & the MGs as musicians but also highlights the instrumental genre’s significant contribution to the Memphis sound. “Green Onions” stands as a timeless piece, showcasing the enduring appeal of Memphis music.

12. “Queen of Memphis” by Confederate Railroad

“Queen of Memphis” by Confederate Railroad uses the vibrant city of Memphis as a picturesque backdrop for a captivating love story. Through descriptive lyrics and engaging melodies, the track paints a romantic image of the city, intertwining a personal connection with the broader allure of Memphis.

This song exemplifies how Memphis’s charm and cultural richness can serve as the perfect setting for storytelling, especially in the context of a love song. Confederate Railroad’s tribute through “Queen of Memphis” highlights the deep influence the city’s ethos has on crafting narratives that resonate on a personal level.

13. “Memphis in the Meantime” by John Hiatt

“Memphis in the Meantime” by John Hiatt depicts Memphis as a vibrant hub for authentic Americana music. Hiatt’s lyrical craftsmanship and the song’s engaging rhythm capture the spirit of the city, celebrating its influential role in shaping the sounds of Americana.

Through this song, John Hiatt not only pays homage to Memphis’s rich musical heritage but also emphasizes the city’s ongoing impact on the genre. “Memphis in the Meantime” serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of Memphis music, embodying the heart and soul of Americana.

14. “Stuck Inside of Mobile With the Memphis Blues Again” by Bob Dylan

“Stuck Inside of Mobile With the Memphis Blues Again” by Bob Dylan showcases the artist’s complex narrative style, intertwining with Memphis’ rich musical legacy, particularly its blues influence. Dylan’s lyrical storytelling, filled with vivid imagery and enigmatic characters, captures a sense of restlessness and search for meaning that echoes the soulful depth of Memphis blues.

This song not only reflects Dylan’s mastery of weaving intricate narratives but also pays subtle homage to the influence of Memphis’ musical heritage on his work. Through this track, Dylan explores themes of identity and displacement, all while nodding to the city’s blues roots that have deeply impacted American music.

15. “Midnight Train to Memphis” by Chris Stapleton

“Midnight Train to Memphis” by Chris Stapleton is a powerful blend of blues and rock that pays homage to Memphis’ enduring influence on both genres. Stapleton’s gritty vocals and the song’s electrifying guitar riffs embody the spirit of Memphis music, capturing its raw energy and emotional depth.

This track highlights how Memphis has served as a crucible for the evolution of blues rock, showcasing Stapleton’s ability to channel the city’s rich musical legacy into a contemporary masterpiece. Through “Midnight Train to Memphis,” Stapleton not only acknowledges the city’s historical importance but also reinforces its relevance in today’s music scene.

16. “Memphis Beat” by Jerry Lee Lewis

“Memphis Beat” by Jerry Lee Lewis is an energetic tribute to Memphis, propelled by his distinctive boogie piano style. The track radiates the vibrant energy of the city, capturing its spirited essence through Lewis’s lively piano rhythms and charismatic delivery.

This song exemplifies Jerry Lee Lewis’s unique contribution to Memphis music, blending rock and roll with a palpable excitement that mirrors the city’s dynamic cultural scene. “Memphis Beat” not only celebrates Memphis’s musical heritage but also showcases Lewis’s prowess as a pioneer of boogie piano in rock music.

17. “Last Night” by The Mar-Keys

“Last Night” by The Mar-Keys captures the spirited nightlife of Memphis through its vibrant instrumental composition. This track, with its catchy melody and rhythmic beats, conveys the excitement and energy that define Memphis after dark.

The Mar-Keys, as one of the premier instrumental bands of their time, exemplify the rich musical diversity of Memphis. Their ability to convey a sense of place and emotion without words in “Last Night” highlights the band’s creative mastery and the lively essence of Memphis’s night scene.

18. “That’s How I Got to Memphis” by Tom T. Hall

“That’s How I Got to Memphis” by Tom T. Hall explores the deep emotional connection with the city of Memphis through its poignant storytelling aspect. The song’s vivid lyrics and Hall’s heartfelt delivery draw listeners into a narrative that feels both personal and universally relatable.

Tom T. Hall masterfully uses Memphis as a backdrop for a tale of love, loss, and self-discovery, showcasing his skill in lyric storytelling. This track not only celebrates the city’s influence but also highlights the emotional journeys that bring people to Memphis, demonstrating the power of music to capture the essence of place and emotion.

19. “Memphis in the Rain” by Justin Townes Earle

“Memphis in the Rain” by Justin Townes Earle offers listeners a lyrical journey through Memphis, filled with vivid imagery that evokes the city’s atmosphere and spirit. Earle’s storytelling, marked by his unique singer-songwriter perspective, brings to life the streets of Memphis amidst a backdrop of rain, blending the physical with the emotional landscape.

This track showcases Earle’s ability to capture the essence of Memphis through his music, creating an intimate portrait of the city that resonates with those familiar and new to its charm. Through “Memphis in the Rain,” Justin Townes Earle contributes to the rich tapestry of songs celebrating Memphis, highlighting its enduring impact on artists and their creative expressions.

20. “Beale Street Blues” by W.C. Handy

“Beale Street Blues” by W.C. Handy plays a crucial role in popularizing the blues, celebrating Memphis’ Beale Street as a landmark of the genre. Handy, often referred to as the Father of the Blues, encapsulates the soul and essence of Beale Street, a central artery of the blues tradition.

Through this song, W.C. Handy not only showcases his deep connection to Memphis and its musical heritage but also immortalizes Beale Street as a symbol of the blues. His work marks a pivotal moment in the history of American music, firmly establishing the blues tradition within the cultural fabric of Memphis.