Memphis Music on the Flip Side

While exploring Memphis’ signature Beale Street, be sure to keep your eyes peeled for its world-famous urban acrobats, the Beale Street Flippers. For more than two decades, these hometown boys have been entertaining crowds with their astounding acrobatic prowess. They’ve been seen on “America’s Got Talent” and regularly perform during halftime at NBA games across the country.

Catch acts ranging from garage rock to bluegrass to metal at the cool Midtown music venue Hi-Tone Cafe. An affordable cover, drink specials and highly praised pizzas add to the Hi-Tone’s appeal. The building once served as the karate studio of Master Kang Rhee. It was purchased for him by his most famous student, Elvis Presley, who honed his martial arts skills on the dance floor.

Young Avenue Deli, a popular live music venue in Midtown’s hip Cooper-Young district, showcases diverse local and national acts. With low or no cover charges (except when there’s a big-name act), a huge billiards area, extensive beer selection and French fries ranked among the nation’s top 10 by USA Today, it’s easy to see why locals love “the Deli.” 

Midtown’s rock ‘n’ roll “pirate” bar, The Buccaneer, serves up cold brews and hot live tunes. It’s loud, it’s dimly lit and there’s not a lot of elbow room, all of which makes this rockin’ late-night bar a prime spot for mingling with local musicians and music fans.  

Musicians Albert King, Howlin’ Wolf and Otis Redding are just a few who’ve passed through the doors of Earnestine & Hazel's, a watering hole in downtown’s Historic South Main District. This former sundry store, brothel and blues bar is said to be haunted by the spirits of musicians, gangsters and ladies of the night. But all the talk of ghosts doesn’t seem to bother the late-night crowd that packs the vintage barroom for the cold beers, famously greasy “soul” burgers and old-school tunes played on what’s arguably the best juke box in town.

Also see our Must See Memphis Music Trip Ideas. 

Javascript is required to view this map.

Buccaneer

Cove

Earnestine & Hazel's

Goner Records

Hi-Tone Cafe

South Main Historic Arts District

Young Avenue Deli