Music rolls through Memphis like the mighty Mississippi to the ocean. Blues, soul, and country mingle down Beale Street and beyond to make this western Tennessee city a top destination for sounds that pluck at your heartstrings. This city gave us icons like Elvis Presley, B.B. King, and Johnny Cash, as well as more modern ones like Three 6 Mafia. Start your exploration at these top Memphis music venues. Surely, one of them will have a musician act that draws you in.

B.B. King’s Blues Club

Address: 143 Beale St, Memphis, TN 38103

This iconic blues and soul venue is at the front and center of the Beale Street Entertainment District–a part of Memphis packed with so many top-notch music joints.  

Several artists are flagship performers on the B.B. King Blues Club music roster. The All-Star Band weekly plays rhythm and blues favorites with a particular emphasis on Memphis music. Mixed in, you’ll hear soul, pop, and classic rock. The set list constantly changes, keeping the sound fresh. Another regular is the Jason Foree Band, which plays songs with that distinct Memphis flavor. Versatile artist Memphis Jones takes you on a musical tour through the city’s famous music legacy. In between, you may find traveling acts on the event calendar.

The blues club pairs top-tapping sounds with southern classic music, featuring Memphis-style ribs and signature cocktails. On the third level of the club, the posh eatery Itta Bena offers Southern cuisine with a chic twist and adult beverages for sybarites.

The Orpheum Theatre 

Address: 203 S Main St, Memphis, TN 38103

Wanting something more classic, like a Broadway-style show? The Orpheum Theatre is your venue. This art deco-styled venue has been Memphis’ home for touring Broadway and performance theater since 1977. 

The historic Orpheum started as the city’s Opera House and Vaudeville performance venue in 1890. It burned in 1923 but was rebuilt in the lavish style iconic of the 1920s, with the opening performance in 1928. It morphed into a movie theater before being shuttered. At risk of demolition in the 1970s, local residents saw the potential in the Orpheum as the rallying point for revitalizing Memphis downtown and the entire Beale Steet. 

Today, it is a beloved iconic venue on the Beale Steet and Memphis entertainment scene where great performances have takenru place, including Bob Dylan and Patti Labelle. See its website for upcoming shows and programs.

Levitt Shell

Address: 1928 Poplar Ave, Memphis, TN 38104, USA

What could be more Memphis than a show from the Levitt Shell in Overton Park? If you listen closely, you may hear the strands of “Heartbreak Hotel” by Elvis Presley wafting on the breeze. The Shell was his first professional concert and part of the greater Memphis legacy. Bring a blanket or lawn chairs and settle in for a fun outdoor concert experience. To see the next show, visit the event calendar. The Shell is the Orion Free Concert Series site, home to the Shell Yeah! Concert Benefit Series, plus other partnership events that mix amazing music and community events. 

Peabody Rooftop Parties

Address: 149 Union Avenue, Memphis, TN 38103

This one’s lesser known, but that doesn’t make it any less great. On top of the Peabody Hotel Rooftop bar (an iconic destination), spring and summer Thursdays bring jam-packed parties with some of the Mid-South’s best music. Imagine the live strands of music setting the scene as the sun sets over the Memphis skyline. It’s a prized view that makes it one of the best Rooftop Bars in the South and one of the best and most exclusive parties in town. 

Handy Park

Address: 200 Beale St, Memphis, TN

Music wafts through the air at Beale Street, growing louder and softer as doors open and close. The beat sets the backdrop for Handy Park, a Memphis landmark and outdoor concert venue on the Beale Street strip. So you don’t need to pay a cover charge to hear some fantastic performers. Handy Park has two stages for concerts and blues jams. The small stage features blues and jazz performers in the afternoons with free performers. Check out its page for upcoming events and concert lineups. 

Lafayette’s Music Room

Address: 2119 Madison Ave, Memphis, TN 38104

Over in Midtown Memphis is the historic Lafayette Music Room. Back in the day, it was an important stop for names like Barry Manilow, Billy Joel, and Leon Russell. In the new millennium, live bands hit the stage seven nights a week, playing all those beloved Memphis genres, from blues to rock ’n ’ roll. 

Lafayette’s pairs the sounds of the best live local music with lip-smacking southern favorite dishes like shrimp po’boys and some modern twists, like crawdad pizza. A cover charge applies except for ticketed events. 

The Hi-Tone Café

Address: 282-284 N Cleveland St, Memphis, TN 38104

Another Midtown Memphis highlight also rocks away seven days a week. Kick back with a cold beer and hot food as live music invigorates the soul. Its lineup features more eclectic and up-and-coming acts with a more alternative or rock bent.

Hi-Tone Café has two levels, with downstairs always 21+ only. Besides the music, the venue hosts open Mic nights, comedians, and spoken word performances. On its menu are American classic food–burgers, pizzas, cheese melts, pretzels and fries. 

Newby’s

Address: 539 S Highland St, Memphis, TN 38111

Keep the party going at Newby’s Bar. The reputation makes it a college hangout since it’s so close to the University of Memphis. But its live music might be right up your alley. Newby’s performers trend toward experimental funk, jazz, country, and rock. Even better–cover changes and drinks are on the cheaper side than some other Memphis music venues. So kick up close to the stage, hang out outside on the patio, or play a round on its pool tables. The party goes late into the night.  

Minglewood Hall

Address: 1555 Madison Ave, Memphis, TN 38104

Sure, many music venues are in repurposed old factories–but how about a bread factory? Minglewood Hall makes the most of its massive size to pack in music lovers for shows with hot artists. With an indoor and outdoor plaza, this midtown Memphis venue is also the scene for comedy shows, artist events, and boxing matches. Sample scheduled acts in 2024 include Pete Davidson, Gavin DeGraw, and Social Distortion. One thing it lacks is an on-site restaurant, but don’t worry. It definitely has a bar. 

Young Avenue Deli

Address: 2119 Young Ave, Memphis, TN 38104

Any time you’re at “the Deli” is a good time. An expansive stage and large seating area make this beloved local music venue in the heart of the trendy Cooper-Young neighborhood popular. Pair your sweet potato fries and beer-battered artichoke hearts with over 100 craft selections with 30+ on tap. Its bar food has won national awards. Never think simple isn’t delicious, as Young Avenue proves. Besides the music, the deli also has trivia nights and karaoke.

Railgarten

Address: 2166 Central Ave, Memphis, TN 38104, USA

Jam to your heart’s content at this 1.5-acre indoor and outdoor music venue. The Memphis Flyer awarded Railgarten the Best of the Best in Memphis for music venues in 2022. Legends of folk, gospel, and Americana have graced its stage. The event calendar packs in both cover bands and national touring acts. 

Besides the music, Railgarten is a fun place to explore. It breaks into several sections: a Music Hall, Mulch Garten, and The Container. Find secret hideouts tucked into railroad shipping containers, outdoor games like cornhole, and other surprises. On the menu are bar food favorites, plus a few twists. Try the Fried Boudin Balls and Short Rib Po’ Boys. The cocktails include fishbowl cocktails and craft imported beers. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Live Music in Memphis, Tennessee

What is the main street in Memphis for music?

Beale Street is the main street in Memphis for live music. Known as the beating heart of Memphis’ music scene, it is famous for its rich history in blues music. Some of the best music venues in town offer nightly live performances.

The iconic street also features a wide selection of mouthwatering restaurants serving delicious food, including Southern comfort food classics, making it a hotspot for music and cuisine enthusiasts.

A conspicuous destination in Downtown Memphis, Beale Street is the perfect place to keep your music calendar busy with its lively atmosphere and buzzing nightlife​.

Is Memphis or Nashville better for music?

Memphis and Nashville are both pillars of American music, so your choice comes down to personal taste in genres and atmosphere. Memphis is steeped in the history of blues, soul, and rock ‘n’ roll, with legendary music attractions like Beale Street, Graceland, and the Stax Museum celebrating its rich musical legacy.

It is a perfect spot for those seeking a gritty, authentic music scene centered around blues and rock. Nashville, on the other hand, has proudly earned the nickname “Music City” and is a notable hub for country music. It is home to the Grand Ole Opry and is peppered with live music venues along Broadway.

What are the best venues in iconic Beale Street?

Beale Street’s live music scene focuses on blues, rock, and soul. Some of the best venues to experience live music on this iconic street include:

• B.B. King’s Blues Club: This venue is a must-visit for blues lovers. It offers live performances by the B.B. King’s All-Star Band, which brings authentic blues and soul to the audience every night.
• Blues City Cafe: Known for its Southern food and the concerts and jam sessions, Blues City Cafe showcases a mix of blues, rock, and Americana.
• Rockhouse Live: Adding a more modern vibe to the mix, Rockhouse Live features live rock performances and eclectic shows that attract both tourists and locals​.
• Rum Boogie Cafe: Established in 1984, Rum Boogie Cafe on Beale Street is another must-visit. Established in 1884, this venue mixes history, blues, and Southern hospitality. Known for its live performances and mouthwatering Southern cuisine, this lively venue has seen performances by legends, including Billy Joel and Rufus Thomas.

Smaller venues like Mr. Handy’s Blues Hall and the Beale Street Tap Room offer intimate settings to enjoy local talent, contributing to the street’s unique musical tapestry​.

What are the top outdoor venues for live music in Memphis, TN?

Outdoor venues for live music in Memphis include:

• Overton Park Shell: Also known as the Levitt Shell, this historic venue in Overton Park is famous for hosting Elvis Presley’s first paid performance. Overton Park Shell features free concerts during its seasonal series and is close to other music venues, like Overton Square.
• Radians Amphitheater: This amphitheater is a picturesque outdoor setting for concerts in East Memphis. Located within the Memphis Botanic Garden, it is relatively new. Still, it has quickly turned into a go-to spot for two major annual music festivals: the Live at the Garden Concert Series and the ever-popular Mempho Music Festival.
• Tom Lee Park: This park on the banks of the Mississippi River hosts annual music events like the Beale Street Music Festival, which attracts thousands of fans to enjoy top music acts​.
• The Grove at GPAC: A newer addition to Memphis’ music scene, The Grove at Germantown Performing Arts Center is a beautiful open-air venue that offers a wide range of performances. Enjoy the music from the lawn with convenient access to a bar and a cluster of food trucks.
• Railgarten: This laid-back venue combines live music with a fun outdoor environment. With sand volleyball courts, hammocks, and picnic tables, it’s a great spot to catch local and regional bands​.

Jam to Live Music in Memphis, Railgarten

These chosen music venues barely scratch the surface of the choices. Indeed, music is central to the daily pulse of living in Memphis. Besides the more options on Beale Street, even more choices await in Midtown and elsewhere in Memphis. We didn’t even hit on the museums or Graceland. Wherever you go, sit back and get ready for some quality jams.