The Beat Continues

Contrary to popular belief, Memphis music isn’t stuck in the past. Yes, the city is constantly celebrating its heritage, paying homage to the artists that gave the city its global reputation. But that heritage has had a big influence on the city’s current artists. No one exemplifies that influence more than J.T.

Justin Timberlake may have gotten his start as a young boy singing country music on Ed McMahon’s "Star Search," and later with Disney, but in the past decade he’s become one of the most versatile artists in popular culture. His first two records were major hits. His slew of appearances on "Saturday Night Live" established him as a legitimate actor-comedian. And his recent performance in the Academy Award-nominated film “The Social Network” cemented his status as entertainer first, singer second. One could argue that Justin is following in the footsteps of Elvis himself. Some might even say he’s eclipsing The King. That’s debatable, but it is exciting to think about what J.T. will accomplish in the next 10 years.

Justin isn’t the only Memphis artist that’s been linked to Hollywood over the past few years. With Craig Brewer’s hip-hop hit movie “Hustle and Flow,” Three 6 Mafia entered the mainstream with their Oscar-winning song “It’s Hard Out Here For A Pimp.” While the world didn’t take notice until 2006, these pioneers have been cutting records since 1995, helping to develop a style of rap distinct to Memphis called Crunk.

Oddly enough, Craig Brewer plays an important role in the local music scene. While a filmmaker with mainstream critical success, Brewer has become the unofficial pied piper of Memphis artists. In addition to using Three 6 in “Hustle and Flow,” Brewer also cast local singer-songwriter Amy LaVere in his film “Black Snake Moan.” But acting isn’t LaVere’s primary gig. She’s a bit of a throwback to a time when Memphis was dominated by Sun Studio and a growing roster of rockabilly artists played throughout the city. With stand-up bass in hand, LaVere has made live appearances on both MTV and "Late Night with Conan O’Brien," and her records have received critical recognition.