Soulsville Memphis - The Beale Street Memphis sign, welcoming guests to the historic night life hot spot in Memphis, TN.
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Soulsville Memphis

4.6
·491k reviews·Memphis, United States

Soulsville Memphis: The historic heart of American soul music, home to Stax Records and a vibrant community celebrating its rich musical legacy.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends

Community events and lively atmosphere

CrowdMedium
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Soulsville Memphis - The Beale Street Memphis sign, welcoming guests to the historic night life hot spot in Memphis, TN.

Soulsville Memphis

Best Time

Weekends

Community events and lively atmosphere

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Soulsville Memphis: The historic heart of American soul music, home to Stax Records and a vibrant community celebrating its rich musical legacy.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Step into the birthplace of soul music and feel the rhythm of Memphis history in Soulsville."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎶 Immerse in Music History

Don't miss the Stax Museum! It's a must-visit for any soul music fan. :musical_score:

🍽️ Taste Local Flavors

Try Johnnie Mae's for authentic soul food. It's a community favorite! :forkandknife:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Stax Museum of American Soul Music

Stax Museum of American Soul Music

Original Stax Records site

Step into the birthplace of soul music. Explore exhibits, memorabilia, and the iconic studio where legends recorded.

Instagram+1
Soulsville Charter School

Soulsville Charter School

Various school events

Witness the vibrant energy of the next generation of Memphis talent. Catch student performances, sporting events, or graduation ceremonies.

TikTok+1
Johnnie Mae's Restaurant

Johnnie Mae's Restaurant

969 E. McLemore Ave

Savor authentic Southern soul food in a place deeply rooted in the community. A true taste of home and local hospitality.

Instagram+1
Aretha Franklin's Birthplace

Aretha Franklin's Birthplace

Original home site

Pay homage to the Queen of Soul at her humble beginnings. A poignant stop for music history enthusiasts.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Soul of Memphis

Soulsville is more than a neighborhood; it's the heart of Memphis soul music. Plan your visit to immerse yourself in its rich history and vibrant culture. Consider visiting during community events for an authentic experience. Instagram+1

Plan for Music and Community

Soulsville is deeply connected to music education and community development. Many local initiatives, like the Stax Music Academy, are central to its identity. Support these efforts by attending events or visiting local businesses. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Weekends
Why
Community events and lively atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
During school events
Why
Experience student talent and energy
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer mornings
Why
Pleasant weather for exploring
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#trollface #soulsville #soulsvillecharterschool #durtysouthcr3w😈 #southmemphis #dappingup10s #fypシ #fypシ゚viral #relatable #makemefamous #makemeviral #schoollife
@tolitkd1
762 likes • 12.5K views

🎶 Immerse in Music History

Don't miss the Stax Museum! It's a must-visit for any soul music fan. Instagram :musical_score:

🍽️ Taste Local Flavors

Try Johnnie Mae's for authentic soul food. It's a community favorite! Instagram+1 :forkandknife:

I was neevous kike it was my first day od middle school! Love the energy Soulsville is bringing for the babies 💜 #fyp #firstdayofschool #backtoschool #soulsvillecharterschool
@millionnairemel
512 likes • 21.8K views
At Johnnie Mae’s, being rooted in the Soulsville community isn’t just part of our story—it is the story. Our founder, Derrick Craig, is a proud son of South Memphis Riverside, and everything we do is grounded in that deep sense of home. Through soulful food, local activism, and a whole lot of heart, we’re here to serve more than just meals—we’re here to serve our people. The countdown to our gra...
johnniemae901
14 likes • 1.1K views

🏫 Support Local Schools

Check the Soulsville Charter School schedule for events. Great way to see community spirit! TikTok+1 :school:

👟 Stax x HUF Collab

Look out for limited edition sneakers supporting Stax Academy! Instagram+2 :running:

SOULSVILLE USA 🎶 HUF x Stax Records | Took the crew out to Memphis, the hometown of Stax, for our collab dropping Thursday, 3/13, at 9am pst 👀 🎥 @tylersmolinski
hufworldwide
1.6K likes • 98.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎶 Immerse in Music History

Don't miss the Stax Museum! It's a must-visit for any soul music fan. Instagram :musical_score:

🍽️ Taste Local Flavors

Try Johnnie Mae's for authentic soul food. It's a community favorite! Instagram+1 :forkandknife:

🏫 Support Local Schools

Check the Soulsville Charter School schedule for events. Great way to see community spirit! TikTok+1 :school:

👟 Stax x HUF Collab

Look out for limited edition sneakers supporting Stax Academy! Instagram+2 :running:

🚗 Explore with Ease

Consider driving or rideshare to navigate the neighborhood efficiently. Reddit :car:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Soulsville for its deep connection to soul music history, particularly the Stax Museum, and its vibrant community spirit. The authentic soul food and the dedication to preserving musical heritage are major draws. Some find the neighborhood spread out, requiring transportation, and wish for more readily available dining options beyond the main spots.

What People Like

Rich soul music history
Stax Museum experience
Community atmosphere

What People Dislike

Spread out attractions
Limited dining options

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Soulsville is located in South Memphis. Driving or using rideshare services like Uber or Lyft is the most convenient way to reach the area. Public transportation options are available but may be less direct. Reddit

While some attractions are clustered, the neighborhood is spread out. Walking is feasible for short distances between specific points of interest, but a car or rideshare is recommended for exploring more broadly. Reddit

Parking availability can vary. Street parking is often an option, especially outside of peak event times. Some attractions, like the Stax Museum, have dedicated parking lots. Reddit

For a comprehensive experience, a combination of driving and walking is ideal. Consider a rental car if you plan to explore beyond Soulsville. Reddit

While official guided tours might be limited, many visitors create their own tours focusing on music history. Check local tourism sites for potential walking tours or music-focused excursions. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, tickets are required for the Stax Museum of American Soul Music. It's advisable to purchase them in advance, especially during peak seasons, to guarantee entry. Instagram

Attraction hours can vary. The Stax Museum typically has set hours, while local businesses like Johnnie Mae's have their own schedules. Always check official websites or call ahead for the most current information. Instagram

While the Stax Museum has an admission fee, exploring the neighborhood, seeing the exterior of historic sites like Aretha Franklin's birthplace, and enjoying the community atmosphere are free. Instagram

Many school events, such as games, performances, and graduations, are open to the public or community members. Keep an eye on school announcements for event schedules. TikTok+1

The Soulsville Redevelopment area itself is a community project. While specific events hosted there might have fees, general access to the area is typically free. Instagram

🎫 🎶 Music & Culture

Soulsville Memphis is renowned as the historic home of Stax Records and a pivotal center for American soul music. It's a vibrant community dedicated to preserving and celebrating its musical legacy. Instagram+1

Stax Records was a legendary record label that produced iconic soul and R&B music from the 1960s and 70s, featuring artists like Otis Redding, Sam & Dave, and Booker T. & the M.G.'s. Instagram+1

The Stax Music Academy is a youth development program that provides music education and life skills to students, continuing the legacy of Stax Records. Instagram+1

Beyond the Stax Museum, you can find the birthplace of Aretha Franklin and other sites significant to Memphis's rich musical history. Instagram

The primary genre associated with Soulsville is soul music, but you'll also find influences of R&B, blues, and gospel, reflecting the diverse musical heritage of Memphis. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Johnnie Mae's is a highly recommended spot for authentic soul food, offering a taste of the community's culinary heritage. Instagram+1

Soulsville offers classic Southern soul food, including dishes like fried chicken, mac and cheese, collard greens, and cornbread. Instagram+1

While traditional soul food is meat-centric, some establishments may offer vegetarian sides. It's best to inquire directly with restaurants about specific dietary options. Instagram

Hours vary by establishment. Johnnie Mae's, for example, serves breakfast and lunch. It's always wise to check their specific operating hours before visiting. Instagram

Yes, places like Johnnie Mae's offer a casual dining experience, perfect for enjoying hearty meals in a relaxed atmosphere. Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

The Stax Museum offers many photo opportunities, both inside and outside. The historic streetscapes and murals also provide great backdrops. Instagram

Photography policies can vary within the Stax Museum. Generally, non-flash photography is permitted in most public areas, but it's best to check their guidelines upon arrival. Instagram

While not as prominent as in other Memphis neighborhoods, keep an eye out for community art and murals that reflect the area's spirit and history. Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best natural light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a warmer atmosphere. Instagram

Photography at school events may be subject to school policies. It's advisable to be respectful of students, staff, and privacy. TikTok+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Soulsville offers a unique educational and cultural experience for families. The Stax Museum of American Soul Music is engaging for all ages, with interactive exhibits that can captivate younger visitors. Consider visiting during a Soulsville Charter School event, like a cheerleading showcase or a school play, to experience the community's vibrant energy and support local youth. TikTok+2

When planning your visit, pack comfortable shoes for exploring and be prepared for a mix of indoor and outdoor activities. While the focus is on music history, the strong community spirit is palpable and can be a great lesson in cultural heritage for children. Pack snacks and water, as dining options might be limited outside of specific restaurants. Reddit

🎵 Music Enthusiasts & History Buffs

For anyone passionate about soul music and its history, Soulsville is a pilgrimage site. The Stax Museum of American Soul Music is an absolute must-visit, offering an unparalleled deep dive into the genre's golden era. Beyond the museum, seek out the birthplace of Aretha Franklin and explore the streets that inspired countless melodies. Instagram+1

Engage with the community by visiting local eateries like Johnnie Mae's to experience the authentic flavors that fueled the artists. Keep an eye out for any community events or performances that might be happening, as these offer a chance to experience the living legacy of Soulsville's musical heritage firsthand. Instagram+1

Budget Travelers

While the Stax Museum has an admission fee, Soulsville offers ways to experience its essence without breaking the bank. Exploring the neighborhood's streets, admiring any public art, and soaking in the atmosphere are free activities. Instagram You can also check the schedules for Soulsville Charter School events, as many are open to the public and offer a glimpse into community life. TikTok+1

For dining, consider enjoying a hearty and affordable meal at Johnnie Mae's, which offers a taste of authentic soul food without high prices. Instagram+1 Prioritize walking between nearby attractions and utilize rideshare services strategically for longer distances to manage transportation costs effectively. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of Stax Records

Soulsville is inextricably linked to the legendary Stax Records, a label that defined the sound of Southern soul music. Founded in 1957, Stax became a melting pot of talent, bringing together Black and white musicians to create groundbreaking hits. The Stax Museum of American Soul Music stands on the original site, offering an immersive journey through this iconic era. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring memorabilia, instruments, and the famous 'Sound of Memphis' studio, where artists like Otis Redding, Sam & Dave, and Booker T. & the M.G.'s recorded their masterpieces. Instagram+1

The impact of Stax extended beyond music; it was a symbol of racial integration and cultural unity during a turbulent time in American history. The museum not only celebrates the music but also the social and cultural significance of the label. It's a place where you can feel the history and understand the profound influence Soulsville had on the global music scene. Instagram+1

Beyond the museum, the spirit of Stax lives on through initiatives like the Stax Music Academy, which nurtures young talent and continues the legacy of music education in the community. This dedication to preserving and evolving its musical heritage is what makes Soulsville a truly special destination for music lovers. Instagram+1

Community and Education in Soulsville

Soulsville is more than just a historic music hub; it's a thriving community with a strong focus on education and youth development. The Soulsville Charter School is a central institution, fostering academic and personal growth for its students. Social media often showcases the vibrant school life, from energetic cheerleading squads to proud graduation moments, highlighting the community's investment in its young people. TikTok+3

Local businesses and organizations play a crucial role in the neighborhood's fabric. Johnnie Mae's Restaurant is a prime example, serving not just delicious soul food but also acting as a gathering place deeply rooted in the community's identity. Its presence underscores the importance of local establishments in maintaining the area's unique character and providing essential services. Instagram+1

The Soulsville Redevelopment initiatives also point to a forward-looking vision for the neighborhood, aiming to enhance living conditions and opportunities. This blend of preserving its rich musical past while actively investing in its future makes Soulsville a dynamic and inspiring place to visit. Instagram+1

Exploring Music Heritage Beyond Stax

While the Stax Museum is the cornerstone of Soulsville's musical heritage, the neighborhood offers other significant landmarks for music enthusiasts. The birthplace of Aretha Franklin, the Queen of Soul, is a poignant reminder of the deep musical talent that emerged from this area. Visiting this site offers a moment of reflection on the journey of one of music's most iconic figures. Instagram

The area's connection to music is also celebrated through collaborations and community projects. For instance, the HUF x Stax Records collaboration highlights the ongoing relevance of Stax music and its influence on contemporary culture, with limited edition merchandise often supporting music education programs. Instagram+2

For those interested in the broader Memphis music scene, Soulsville provides a crucial piece of the puzzle. It's a place where the echoes of soul music still resonate, inviting visitors to discover the roots of a sound that changed the world. Instagram

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