Been to Beale?

What’s more interesting than a city with a rich culture? A city with a legitimate sub-culture. Memphis musical heritage continues to remain relevant not because of the city’s museums or attractions, but because of the thousands of young musicians that live, work and play in its vibrant Midtown neighborhood. And the two venues where this subculture thrives are the Hi-Tone Café and Young Avenue Deli.

Across the street from Overton Park and the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art, the Hi-Tone is home to a constant stream of Memphis College of Art students looking for cheap, good food and a few beers to unwind after a long day in the studio. At night, though, the place becomes a premier rock venue. Despite a recent renovation, the Hi-Tone’s no-frills atmosphere makes it a perfect place for raw and raucous performances, including well-known acts such as the North Mississippi All-Stars, rockabilly legend Wanda Jackson and Elvis Costello.

A few miles away,at the intersection of Cooper Street and Young Avenue is Young Avenue Deli. A restaurant, bar and pool hall by day, the Deli transforms itself into a small, intimate club by night. Local acts often populate the club’s calendar, making it an easy place to visit. But when national acts pass through, like the Black Keys did recently, fire codes get broken. Don’t fear -- like Beale Street, you can just cross the street and get a drink at any of the other restaurants that make Cooper-Young the hippest neighborhood in Memphis. One of our favorites is the Beauty Shop. They make great fries, pour stiff drinks and have the unique honor of being Priscilla’s former hair salon.

And when you think the night is getting old, stay young and grab a cab to head over to Wild Bill’s. An old-fashioned juke joint, Wild Bill’s is about as bare-boned as any venue gets. When you step through the front door, you’re inches away from the stage, as well as about 100 people smoking, drinking 40s and eating hot wings. A good bet to make is that the band you saw earlier in the evening, you’ll see again, either jamming with the house band or inviting you to sit with them at the neighboring table.