Memphis, Tennessee: Beale Street

Go early -- before 10 pm -- to avoid the cover charge.

Beale is the street in Memphis for blues, brews and BBQ. It's a fun place for an evening of good music and bar hopping. Don't miss the fried pickles at BB Kings.

Beale is the Congressionally decreed official Home of the Blues and a National Historic Landmark. It is a great tourist spot for drinks, blues, R&B, and BBQ. What isn't readily apparent is that Beale as it stands today is a product of urban renewal decimation by the city (funded by the Federal government) and controversial revitalization by a private real estate developer. There are only a few books that explore this part of Beale's history (check out Beale Street Talks: A Walking Tour Down the Home of the Blues by Raichelson, available at the Rock 'n' Soul Museum near Beale). Talk to the musicians (and please tip them well!), ask the bartenders, and look closely at the building interiors and facades for a truly interesting and rich experience on Beale.

Silky O'Sullivan's used to have a beer drinking goat on site. The goat is still there, but no longer drinking beer. He is stuffed and resides over the bar. Pianists were fun there and we ended up going back. Check out Rum Boogie Cafe for some great music!

The sidewalks of Beale Street in downtown Memphis are lined with small brass music notes. Each note is engraved and dedicated to a musician. The first note was done in 1986; and now there are over a hundred lining the sidewalks.