We actually planned our return trip around Memphis. (We regard it as serendipity that Norman is a day’s drive west of Memphis – and on our way.) The last time we were here – traveling with the (Jr. High Aged) kids – we didn’t take the opportunity to experience any of the jazz for which this city is so famous.
Arriving early in the afternoon we relaxed for a bit in our hotel room. It felt great to not move for a bit! Then we got all gussied up and headed downtown. On the way we passed the famous Sun recording studio (Birthplace of Rock and Roll) – appropriately located on Marshall Ave.
We started at the Rock ‘n Soul Museum – a fine collection of memorabilia from the origins of rock on the sharecroppers’ porches in the south to current times – with emphasis on the role Memphis played in the birth of rock and roll. The tour started with an orientation video and the exhibits were keyed to the included audio guide. The promo says to allow 1-1 1/2 hours. I’d say you should allow at least 2. I didn’t take time to take pictures, except for this jukebox from 1934 – it plays 78 rpm records.
After the museum closed we wandered over to Beale Street where we joined 15,000 of our closest friends in parading up and down the street
– stopping for a few minutes to enjoy the free concert in Handy Park,
and eventually deciding on drinks and dinner at BB King’s Restaurant
We lingered over dessert and an extra beer watching the pumpkin shaped carriages go by
and listening to great music until our ears hurt.
Then it was back to the hotel to update the blog, sleep, and get ready for:
Tomorrow -> Norman!
Nite all.