Dine At This Historic Spot In Tennessee Where B.B. King Played The Blues
By Chris Dodge|Published March 20, 2023
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Chris Dodge
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My name is Chris Dodge and I live right here in the great state of Tennessee. My family and I are full adventurers filled with passion to see the amazing things our state has to offer. We are avid hikers and have explored many different places in Tennessee and beyond but we are always thankful to be living in such a glorious state.
Tennessee’s connection to music is an inextricable part of our state’s identity. Bristol is the birthplace of country music; Nashville has traditionally been home to some of the most prominent artists in the world; Memphis has its roots steeped in our state’s musical heritage. The sound of the Rocky Top State has made its way across the globe and history was made on our soil. More specifically, our western city has been home to not just one king, but two, from different ends of the musical spectrum. Elvis may have ruled rock and roll, but the soulful voice of B.B. King reigns supreme over the blues. You can visit the B.B. King’s Blues Club in Memphis, TN, to partake in this rich history.
Wailing sounds of guitars, thumping drum lines, and rhythmic bass grooves can be heard throughout the historic Beals Street in Memphis today, but that wasn't always been the case.
Many times in the last century, the city has fallen into hard times --and this iconic street was left bare and void of the electric atmosphere many are used to. The ebb and flow of crowds varied depending on the decade, but one man saw the rise, and fall, and continued rise in popularity. That man was B.B. King and he put in the hard work to make Beals Street what it is today. His gift that was shared with the world gave way to his now-famous B.B. King’s Blues club.
For those who know B.B. King, you know he really is the King of the Blues. With his Gibson guitar in hand (dubbed "Lucille"), he created a classic sound heard 'round the world.
The blues were rooted in soul, gospel, and turmoil -- and the sum of these parts made something truly special for generations to hold on to forever. The work that B.B. King did was legendary and his bright blue neon guitar sign stands as a beacon of his hard work outside of his blues club. Mr. King always believed that Memphis was the true "home of the blues" so he forever put his mark on Beals Street.
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Inside you will find a lively room where the energy and excitement are palpable.
The stage is set, and many legendary acts have grabbed a mic to showcase their very own talents. On this very stage, B.B. King would play his heart out for his adoring fans and it was always a full house. There is much honor given to a man who is indeed the king of the blues.
The options are numerous, but tend to be rooted -- much like the blues -- in American culture. What is American culture without the great melting pot and a medley of flavors borrowed from other parts of the world?
Southern classics on the menu reflect the sea bordering state of blues-loving Mississippi, as well as some good old-fashioned American burgers.
Names like the Beals Street Burger and the Blues Burger not only pay homage to historic significance, but also don’t let you forget where you are. The B.B. King Blues Club is certainly a place filled with great sounds and amazing food.
Although the title will lead you to believe that blues are the only type of tunes cranking out of this building, there is actually an eclectic mix of musicians that take to the stage.
Pop, soul, and rock n' roll all fill the air of this Tennessee blues bar. Of course, if you want to experience true rhythmic blues, then you are in luck because the house band regularly performs in a tribute to the great King himself.
This Mississippi River city has deep roots in musical culture and it’s abundantly clear when you go to B.B. King’s Blues Club in Memphis, Tennessee. Partake in some incredible food with a diverse menu and experience the equally diverse music at his fantastic historic place. Make sure you check out the B.B. King’s Blues Club website for a schedule of bands, and then put on your dancing shoes for a night of celebration.
Also located on this historic Beals Street is a little place that has seen the economic downfall and rise of the area called A.Schwab — make sure to check them out!
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