Memphis PowerPop Festival feat. The Smithereens

We're back for another year of the Memphis PowerPop Festival! This annual celebration honors Memphis' rich Power Pop legacy, highlighting the influence of legendary bands like Big Star while bringing together national touring acts and some of the region's best local musicians. This year's festival is headlined by The Smithereens, joined by Memphis favorites The Sonny Wilsons, Your Academy, and Joybomb.

The Memphis PowerPop Festival is part of the Orion Financial Free Concert Series, bringing local, national, and international artists to the historic Overton Park Shell.

Memphis PowerPop Festival Set Times

• 5:00–5:25 PM – Joybomb
• 5:40–6:10 PM – Your Academy
• 6:25–7:00 PM – The Sonny Wilsons
• 7:30–9:00 PM – The Smithereens

About the Bands

The Smithereens – One of America's most influential rock bands, known for classics like Blood and Roses, A Girl Like You, and Only a Memory. More than four decades later, they continue touring with founding members and guest vocalists while honoring the legacy of late frontman Pat DiNizio.

The Sonny Wilsons – A Memphis Power Pop supergroup featuring members of Afterglow, East Link, The Becky's, Lately David, and more. Their debut album, produced by Jon Auer (The Posies/Big Star), showcases classic melodic rock with unmistakable Memphis roots.

Your Academy – A Memphis Power Pop band formed by veterans of Crash Into June and The Scruffs. Celebrating the release of their third album, they carry on the city's melodic rock tradition inspired by Big Star.

Joybomb – Memphis alt-rock quartet blending pop-punk, indie, and post-hardcore with infectious hooks and high-energy performances. Fresh off appearances at RiverBeat Music Festival and opening for Third Eye Blind, they're one of the city's fastest-rising rock acts.

Know Before You Go
Food trucks will be on-site, and guests are welcome to bring picnic baskets, coolers, beverages, blankets, and lawn chairs. Dogs on leashes are welcome in designated areas. The Overton Park Shell is a non-smoking facility.

More information: https://overtonparkshell.org/eventpage/2026/9/5/orion-financial-free-concert-series-powerpop