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DEL.ICIO.USGot the Memphis Blues?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Memphis. Most people I know either love this city in the southwest corner of Tennessee or they hate it. I’m one who loves it. I realize the city might have its problems, but the romance of the Mighty Mississippi, those soulful Blues and mouthwatering barbecue always prove too much for me to resist. My last few trips, however, have been work related, and I’m itching to go back for a proper visit.
As our kids are growing older, we have begun to throw a little history into the mix when we take our family trips. Memphis will be one of those educational tours we take this summer, in part because we want them to experience the National Civil Rights Museum. The museum is housed at the Lorraine Motel, where Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated 40 years ago.
If you’re able to pick up and go this week, the museum and the city of Memphis will be hosting many events to mark the anniversary of Dr. King’s death on April 4, 1968. Of course, our own city of Atlanta will be hosting similar programs too. You can check out event schedules in both Memphis and Atlanta here.
While the Civil Rights Museum sets a serious tone, Memphis has a lot to offer a wide range of visitors. Music fans — and Elvis fans in particular — can tour Elvis’ Graceland home, the Stax Museum of American Soul Music and Sun Studio, where Presley, B.B. King, Johnny Cash and many others got their start. There’s also the famous Beale Street, a big tourist and entertainment spot to catch live music during your visit.
If you can handle the crowds, check out the Memphis in May International Festival, held throughout the month of May and featuring lots of music and some of the best barbecue you will ever eat at the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest.
Then there’s Peabody Hotel, with its famous marching ducks and the Pink Palace, which you can visit any time. The palace is a pink marble mansion built by the man who created the grocery store chain I thought was so cool when I was a child - the Piggly Wiggly. It now houses a planetarium, a museum and an IMAX theater.
So, what’s your favorite place to visit when you hit Memphis? Is it a “been there once, seen it” type of place for you, or does the city call out to you for another visit?
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By sean
April 2, 2008 8:54 AM | Link to this
I grew up in Memphis and could not wait to move to Atlanta. Except for BBQ there’s nothing in Memphis that Atlanta doesn’t do ten times better.
This city is racist, homophobic, xenophobic and corupt..not to mention sufficatingly hot in the summer. Stay away!
By sean
April 2, 2008 8:55 AM | Link to this
I grew up in Memphis and could not wait to move to Atlanta. Except for BBQ there’s nothing in Memphis that Atlanta doesn’t do ten times better.
This city is racist, homophobic, xenophobic and corupt..not to mention sufficatingly hot in the summer. Stay away!
By Paddy
April 2, 2008 9:12 AM | Link to this
The best of Memphis…it has to be that it is the gateway to Tunica,Ms. Thats the best thing I can say about Memphis. Bar-B-Que, its good there but not better than a half dozen places around the South.Memphis would get a grade of “C” for average. If you are close spend some time but don’t go out of your way.
By trey
April 2, 2008 9:18 AM | Link to this
Sean, having lived half here in Atlanta and half in Memphis, I have to disagree on your assessment of the comparison.
To borrow your expression - I’ve found that there’s nothing in Memphis that Atlanta doesn’t do ten times louder, bling-ier, more commercially, more crowded, and more uptight-ly, if you will.
Memphis is growing now and experiencing some of the materialism and aggravation that comes with Atlanta’s New South drives, but it’s still at a slower, more manageable pace.
Their minor-league ballpark downtown is an excellent example, and a perfect counterpoint to Turner Field (it’s actually like a little copy of Turner Field, only actually IN town, with restaurants and entertainment right across the street).
Bigger ‘aint always better folks. Memphis has a recognizable gravity to it, a reason to be that’s linked to the river - Memphis has an identity and a soul that Atlanta will never be able to capture. You can feel it when you walk down the street.
So they don’t have as many PF Chang restaurants as we do. Big f’n deal.
By Cutty
April 2, 2008 9:18 AM | Link to this
Memphis is a cool town to visit every once in awhile. Beale St. is definitely a nice spot to go to, especially during Memphis in May. You can take a short drive to Tunica and hit the casinoes too. Good weekend trip! Only 4 1/2 hrs away, if you drive through Birmingham.
By Cutty
April 2, 2008 9:19 AM | Link to this
Memphis is a cool town to visit every once in awhile. Beale St. is definitely a nice spot to go to, especially during Memphis in May. You can take a short drive to Tunica and hit the casinoes too. Good weekend trip! Only 4 1/2 hrs away, if you drive through Birmingham.
By Stewie
April 2, 2008 9:40 AM | Link to this
My wife and I loved our short visit to Memphis last year during spring break.
I’m an Elvis fan, so she booked us a night in the room of the public housing project (now “uptown” condos) where the Presleys first lived when they moved there…very cool. And around the corner is Pop Tunes, where E used to buy his records.
Graceland took the better part of a day, as did our visit to the Stax Museum, which is amazing. Sun Studio is not to be missed, either.
The Smithsonian has a great museum of rock and soul just down from Beale, in between the basketball arena and the Gibson guitar factory, which offers tours.
We only drove past the Pink Palace, though it looked magnificent.
Food-wise, we sampled a broad range of barbecue offerings and enjoyed comparing them to one another, plus we had some of the best fried chicken ever near the Civil Rights Museum, which can also take the better part of a day and offers one of the most emotional experiences you can have at a museum. Humbling.
As others mentioned, you also have the beautiful downtown ball park, the Peabody, the riverfront park, and several other attractions outside of downtown.
On the downside, you don’t have to look hard for areas that are struggling economically and, despite its heritage, the local music scene isn’t strong.
By The truth
April 2, 2008 10:08 AM | Link to this
I lived in Memphis for a couple of years. The best bbque is in that city. Miss it so much. What I don’t miss is the racist mayor King Willie. Crime is way out of control and people have left and moved to Miss. There’s not much to do in that town besides eat. Beale Street is fun for about an hour and then it gets old. Little Five is bigger and better than that hole. College basketball rocks but their professional team is worse than the Hawks. Nashville is a much better town. Less crime and better living.
By michael
April 2, 2008 10:12 AM | Link to this
I was born & raised in Memphis (orangemound bound) to be exact and i moved to Grayson Ga. 10 yrs. ago I still love my home and always will.As all of my family is there except my dad and i still have a child there along with a mother and other realitives. It’s sad how some people forget where they come from (sean). GO TIGERS!!!!!
By michael
April 2, 2008 10:13 AM | Link to this
I was born & raised in Memphis (orangemound bound) to be exact and i moved to Grayson Ga. 10 yrs. ago I still love my home and always will.As all of my family is there except my dad and i still have a child there along with a mother and other realitives. It’s sad how some people forget where they come from (sean). GO TIGERS!!!!!
By JC
April 2, 2008 10:16 AM | Link to this
The Rendezvous Restaurant 52 S. Second Street Memphis, TN 38103
By Now ain't that sumthin'
April 2, 2008 10:20 AM | Link to this
I grew up in Memphis as well, and wouldn;t have hung out with Sean even if I had known him. LOL Anyway…the city has much more to offer than the usual tourist hotspots. Downtown has undergone a major reconstruction that would be the envy of any cities with their crumbling infrastructures. Be sure to check it out if you go. It is a prime example of how the downtown area can be more than just business.
Covered secured parking is available. The Gibson guitar museum, the baseball park, Beale Street, The Peabody, a mall complete with shopping, dining, movie theatres is all within walknig distance of one another. Not to mention all over looking the mighty Mississippi River bluff.
By Blue on Memphis
April 2, 2008 10:24 AM | Link to this
Been to Memphis a few times to visit a friend..he couldn’t wait to get out after six years. The BBQ and minor league ball park are cool..Beale St. overated. Since my friend moved, I see no reason to go back.
By Jack
April 2, 2008 10:31 AM | Link to this
racist, homophobic, xenophobic and corupt..not to mention sufficatingly hot in the summer….sounds perfect. The way it ought to be.
By Diane
April 2, 2008 10:33 AM | Link to this
I went to Whitehaven High School in Memphis and graduated in 1968. At that time it was a great city. Having visited in 2005 after being away for 37 years, I found it to be a little on the dirty side. I was disappointed in the Whitehaven area. Some houses had been torn down in my neighborhood. I’m not sure why, because they were nice houses. As I look back on my visit, I don’t think I will be going back any time soon.
By The truth
April 2, 2008 10:35 AM | Link to this
Best BBQ: Germantown Commissary, Central BBQ and Interstate. Leonards is okay. Rendezvous is okay but too much of a tourist place. The Pig on Beale is pretty good, too. I do also miss AutoZone Park. BBQ NACHOS ROCK!!!! Best ballpark food ever invented.
By AV8R
April 2, 2008 10:39 AM | Link to this
Memphis is quite a historic town. I just returned from a 4 day trip last week and have plans to return next month for Memphis in May. I really love Memphis it’s my favorite southern city. I fail to comprehend why a city as beautiful as Memphis Could allow the streets to remain in such poor repair. there are potholes that are severe enough to cause vehicle damage, not just one or two but they are on almost every street.I truely love Memphis But I dread the terrible streets.
By aaaetc
April 2, 2008 10:39 AM | Link to this
I was born & raised in Memphis & lived there about half my life and the other half in Atlanta. I love both cities for different reasons. Memphis is a great place to raise a family, & Beale St. is fun for residents & visitors alike. Atlanta is also a great place to live, & there are many more things to see & do. Memphis does have better BBQ, and the traffic is much easier to deal with. Go Tigers & Go Braves!
By h_charles
April 2, 2008 10:46 AM | Link to this
I grew up in Memphis. I’ve lived in ATL for 12 years.
The reality is that Memphis does have its faults — crime, intolerance, ignorance, and lack of a minority middle class.
It also has something Atlanta sorely lacks. A SOUL.
Memphis has character. It has soul. It is home of the blues and the mighty Mississippi, and has a music history Atlanta can only dream about.
Altanta has no soul. It has all the bells and whistles of a major city, and should be commended for that.
What it lacks is character, feel, and a defining persona.
A perfect example is to ask yourself this. If you were not living in either city, ask “I can’t wait to go to Atlanta so I can do, see, eat __.” Outside the aquarium, there is no answer. There is nothing Atlanta has you can’t find elsewhere.
By contrast, Memphis has that answer. BBQ, blues, the river, Elvis, etc.
There is a reason to visit Memphis.
There is no reason to visit Atlanta.
There are certainly a multitude of things Atlanta offers that Memphis cannot — cosmopolitan feel, pro sports, better arts.
But it cannot offer anything unique or special — Memphis can.
By GBK
April 2, 2008 10:48 AM | Link to this
What good can you say about a city whose mayor has fathered more than one illegitimate child? The food is good, but the crime in Memphis is horrendous. Sean is mostly correct in his assessment. The best thing about memphis is that Ole Miss is only an hour away! Oh, Tops BBQ is great for a chain. Better than anything in the Atlanta area.
By E$
April 2, 2008 10:56 AM | Link to this
The site of Stax Records is the greatest thing to see even though the building is gone. I’ve been to the Lorraine Hotel & it’s a very surreal place. To see the building the bullet may have come from & to stand on the spot MLK stood…..(sigh)
By Mempho!
April 2, 2008 11:00 AM | Link to this
I’m from Memphis as well and the fact that they have refurbished the downtown instead of tearing it down and starting over every 10 years like Atlanta says a lot for the city. Sure it’s a rough and tumble river town… always has been. But that is its charm. The city has been through a lot and is still a great place to live and visit.
By Allison
April 2, 2008 11:01 AM | Link to this
I’m a native Atlanta, now living in Nashville - and you can count me in as Pro-Memphis.
I’m surprised no one has mentioned the Stax Museum. If you love Soul Music - this is a MUST SEE. I think it’s a nice place to head for a long weekend. Don’t forget to have a late night, deep-fried burger at Dyer’s on Beale.
The Rendezvous has decent Q, but go there for the cheese plate, beer and the atmosphere.
By Tim
April 2, 2008 11:09 AM | Link to this
I was there a few weeks ago on business. Stayed at the Doubletree downtown. Hotel was great, employees were great. Walked to Beale Street for BBQ, which that night was so-so at the hole in the wall we went to. But in the few short blocks between the hotel and the BBQ joint, we were approached no less than a dozen times from panhandlers. Most just took my no for an answer and kept moving, but some were more aggressive and made us nervous enough to make sure we were watching all angles.
By Robundrh2o
April 2, 2008 11:12 AM | Link to this
After spending close to 15 yrs in memphis, The only time that is worth being there is the month of May (Musicfest and BBQ). While I had some good times in the city during my 20’s the best thing about the city is “Seeing it in my rearview mirror”. It has gone downhill under the thumb of Mayor Slick Willie.
By Rusty
April 2, 2008 11:18 AM | Link to this
It’s just funny to me that there could even be a comparison between Memphis and Atlanta. Memphis is beautiful and historic for so many reasons and Atlanta is a street name changing ghetto. Da ATL, Phatlanta, A-town etc. get em’ up, get em’ up! Sad really.
By pmpnga
April 2, 2008 11:25 AM | Link to this
So sad to read negative (but true) comments about Memphis. I can not disagree with the bad politics and racial unrest. I am a Memphis born and raised for 40 plus years. After 13 years in GA I have been to ATL 2 times for pleasure. Memphis BBQ..best anywhere by preference. You can not buy team BBQ at Memphis in May. You have to be a guest. Music. I have found some good music in ATL but for quantity and quality Memphis is hands down. Try late hours during the Beale Street Awards. Musicians are jaming in the back rooms in the wee hours. I left Memphis because of the crime, school violence and taxes. Atl has it’s share. Atlanta Traffic…can you say awfull. When Delta had a hub in Memphis it was said that to get to hell you had to go through Atlanta. Now I can drive to Memphis from Augusta as fast as flying if the flight is not canceled. From the gate to getting in the air takes longer than most flights. I miss the blues and old rock. How many music studios are in Atlanta? Personnaly, I would not live in either. Happy in Georgia country.
By Britt
April 2, 2008 11:26 AM | Link to this
I loved reading all the comments. I grew up in Memphis, too. Really miss the BBQ! Have to say we have recently found BBQ1 in Marietta, GA and it’s pretty close to being as great as anything I ever had in Memphis.
By The truth
April 2, 2008 11:27 AM | Link to this
Rusty, the reason Atlanta changes street and airport names so often is because black racist people run the city. Cynthia Mckinny, Mayor Jackson and the Revvv Joseph Lowwwry all have about 2 to 3 streets named after them. All of them despise white people as well. It’s a known fact that most of the racism in the south is from black people.
By bob the builder
April 2, 2008 11:29 AM | Link to this
Memphis is a great place to live… if you’re a car jacker, or a drug dealer, or a corrupt politician… otherwise don’t even bother.
By Debbie
April 2, 2008 11:33 AM | Link to this
I lived in Memphis for 36 years (Whitehaven High grad, 1979). It is a great place to visit. As some of you have noted, the city truly has soul and a unique character. However, it is NOT a good place to live. Everything Sean said is true. I was so relieved to finally escape from Memphis nine years ago and move to the Northeast Georgia mountains. Even though I still have family in the Memphis area, I will never live there again (though I enjoy going back once a year for a visit).
By the way, almost everybody who has posted a comment here has mentioned one of the best things about Memphis is the barbecue. But if you’re a vegetarian, better bring your own food if you go to Memphis. There is not a single vegetarian restaurant in the entire Memphis metro area.
By Rusty
April 2, 2008 11:37 AM | Link to this
Truth, you said it I didn’t. But while we’re on the subject,let me quote Maynards’ widow regarding the airport..”We want Hartsfields’ name stripped, we want the whole thing.” I rest your case.
By Ken
April 2, 2008 11:41 AM | Link to this
Responding to Sean’s opening comment… I also grew up in Memphis and moved to ATL. I would love to live in Memphis again. As h_charles said, the big M town has more soul and character in its little finger than Atlanta has in its whole international-wanna-be, BBQ-wanna-be body.
By steve
April 2, 2008 11:46 AM | Link to this
I have a lot of friends from Memphis but now live elsewhere. I do not know of one of them that would ever consider moving back. That must say something about the city. I have visited Memphis on occasion and find that there are some enjoyable places to go. Bottom line - It’s an okay place to visit (not too frequently however!), but I would not want to live there.
By NR
April 2, 2008 11:51 AM | Link to this
I think everyone has very good points. Being from Memphis, going to college in Atlanta, and returning to Memphis, I think each city has its good and bad.
Memphis is a beautiful mid-size major city. You would be surprised by the cost of living compared to Atlanta; centrally-located in the country; the number of Fortune 500 companies in the city; and CEOs of Fortune 500s living in the Greater Memphis area whosse companies are not even based in the state.
I am proud to say I voted for Shirley Franklin while in Atlanta and she has done a marvelous job, but she also inherited a city that had great predecessors that was open to change.
Memphis has definitely made leaps and bounds to were it was before I left for school. From the downtown revitalization, professional & college sports, and corporations relocating to the area, I think Memphis is on its way.
Once you accept change and that it takes all walks of life from different socio-economic status that you will be able to bring the best of all sectors of the city, then the city’s success will be unstoppable.
By Mark
April 2, 2008 11:56 AM | Link to this
the truth You speak it.
I was in Memfrica once. I enjoyed Beale street, and loved visiting the Lorraine motel where that big mouthed racist took a bullet. Standing on the same spot as him as he took a bullet to the coconut sent chills down my spine….
By The truth
April 2, 2008 12:02 PM | Link to this
NR, I hate to bust your bubble but the mayors of Atlanta past and present are very corrupt racist people. From Maynard all the way to Campbell. Politicians don’t make a city great. It’s people do. Memphis is on it’s way to becoming Detroit. What success do you speak of? If it were not for FedEx, Memphis would be NOTHING!
Rusty, Yes, Maynard said “if you’re black vote black.” Can’t get any more racist than that. The great thing is that Obamas preacher has really brought black racism to the forefront. Blacks have accused whites of being racist for years and now their chickens are coming home to roost. Ha Ha Ha.
By pmpnga
April 2, 2008 12:03 PM | Link to this
Debbie Try Google for ‘vegetarian restaurant Memphis’. You get 9 hits from the Happycow.
By PS
April 2, 2008 12:08 PM | Link to this
We visited Memphis last year. We went primarily to visit everything Elvis. We also visited the Peabody and had lunch there. Had a good time but once is enough.
By Rusty
April 2, 2008 12:18 PM | Link to this
Truth, hadn’t heard that one about Maynard, but I can’t say it suprises me. I just read that Mariah Carey just passed Elvis #1 record total. I guess being married to the PRESIDENT of Sony records has it’s perks.
By Charles
April 2, 2008 12:31 PM | Link to this
I lived in Memphis for 4 years and it is the worst place I have lived by far. I have lived in Va. Beach, VA, Orlando, FL,Knoxville, TN and now Atlanta. Memphis schools are horrible, the crime there is unbelievable, ala the Mall of Murder and the entire area is very racist and segregrated. All the hate that is there is what makes it so hot there. Atlanta is 100 times better than Memphis in every conceivable way except for traffic. But hey we have so much traffic because ATL is such an awesome place to live that everyone comes here. The premier employer in Memphis is FedEx and the locals call it “The Plantantion”. If you are consumed with hate then Memphis is the place for you.
By Charles
April 2, 2008 12:32 PM | Link to this
I lived in Memphis for 4 years and it is the worst place I have lived by far. I have lived in Va. Beach, VA, Orlando, FL,Knoxville, TN and now Atlanta. Memphis schools are horrible, the crime there is unbelievable, ala the Mall of Murder and the entire area is very racist and segregrated. All the hate that is there is what makes it so hot there. Atlanta is 100 times better than Memphis in every conceivable way except for traffic. But hey we have so much traffic because ATL is such an awesome place to live that everyone comes here. The premier employer in Memphis is FedEx and the locals call it “The Plantantion”. If you are consumed with hate then Memphis is the place for you.
By SE
April 2, 2008 12:33 PM | Link to this
My wife was born and raised in Memphis until the age of 12 or so, and still has lots of Family there that we visit annually, which we’ve always enjoyed. Last year she had an EXCELLENT job offer and we had a decision to make: Go or Stay in the terrible Atlanta traffic? It’s amazing how a prospective changes when you consider raising your children somewhere. We stayed. Although we’d like to move somewhere, just not to Memphis.
By Chris
April 2, 2008 12:43 PM | Link to this
Rusty and Truth:
Why don’t you two move away from Atlanta and to somewhere more appropriate for your kind. Somewhere like Kansas. Or better yet….the 60s! Its perfect for you two. No Mexicans, successful blacks, or any other minorities. Obviously, you can’t handle a city like Atlanta that has soooo much minority success and a sense of self pride.
By JJ
April 2, 2008 12:43 PM | Link to this
Both town’s are yuck, but Memphis is better to visit.
Why can’t the AJC crack I.T. staff figure out how to filter duplicate posts?
By JJ
April 2, 2008 12:44 PM | Link to this
Both town’s are yuck, but Memphis is better to visit.
Why can’t the AJC crack I.T. staff figure out how to filter duplicate posts?
By JJ
April 2, 2008 12:44 PM | Link to this
Both town’s are yuck, but Memphis is better to visit.
Why can’t the AJC crack I.T. staff figure out how to filter duplicate posts?
By Rusty
April 2, 2008 12:58 PM | Link to this
Chris,I ain’t goin’ anywhere champ. But facts is facts. Play your cards right champ (keep represent’n’) and you’ll get a street named after you.
By The truth
April 2, 2008 1:01 PM | Link to this
Chris, You’re an idiot. I pointed out racist mayors and other politicians and you’re telling me to move. You totally missed my point. I have no problem with black success. I do have a problem when blacks blame whites for all their problems.
By soma
April 2, 2008 1:06 PM | Link to this
I HAVE BEEN GOING TO MEMPHIS FOR THE PAST 15 YEARS OR MORE. THE PEOPLE ARE FRIENDLY, PROFESSIONAL AND POLITE. HISTORIC SITES, GOOD FOOD, GREAT CITY AND THE HEADQUARTERS OF THE COGIC. KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK.
By soma
April 2, 2008 1:08 PM | Link to this
I HAVE BEEN GOING TO MEMPHIS FOR THE PAST 15 YEARS OR MORE. THE PEOPLE ARE FRIENDLY, PROFESSIONAL AND POLITE. HISTORIC SITES, GOOD FOOD, GREAT CITY AND THE HEADQUARTERS OF THE COGIC. KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK.
By Rusty
April 2, 2008 1:14 PM | Link to this
Chris, real quick, is soooo much minority success the reason Atlanta project blacks have imploded Clayton county? Is it sooo much minority success that can come up with (beg) for 32 million bucks for King papers but is about to raise your taxes because the soooo successful Mayor can’t add? Btw your last sooo successful minority Mayor is in prison for fraud. Next….
By Lauren
April 2, 2008 1:24 PM | Link to this
Memphis is a horrible place. It’s by far the most segregated and hateful place I have ever lived, both racialy and religiously. My husband and I often joked that Memphis was the Buckle of the Bible Belt. That’s the paradox of Memphis. It’s filled with criminals and religious fanatics and a lot of times they are one in the same. We had friends there that would joke, “They rob you on Saturday and pray for you on Sunday.” That about sums up Memphis.
By TallyBrave
April 2, 2008 1:28 PM | Link to this
I have been to Memphis twice in two years on vacation, because I love it so much! Both times I stayed at the Peabody, which is an amazing hotel!! Try the Sunday brunch there, as it is a can’t miss.
I am an Elvis fan, so my husband and I drove up last May through Tupelo. We then stopped off in Oxford before arriving in Memphis! What a great road trip!
Graceland goes without saying as a must see, but we LOVED Sun Studios!! We also loved Beale Street and, of course, the food. Rendevous is fantastic! Memphis in May was fun, but we wanted to see the area more. We didn’t make it to the Civil Rights Museum late enough on Sunday to visit it, though just standing outside the L. hotel was bone-chilling! (We did get panhandled there, though.)
I understand about the crime (coming from Jacksonville, FL) but I have to say that MEMPHIS IS ONE OF THE FRIENDLIEST CITIES I HAVE EVER VISITED! I will definitately be going back to experience it’s soulful charm.
By TallyBrave
April 2, 2008 1:28 PM | Link to this
I have been to Memphis twice in two years on vacation, because I love it so much! Both times I stayed at the Peabody, which is an amazing hotel!! Try the Sunday brunch there, as it is a can’t miss.
I am an Elvis fan, so my husband and I drove up last May through Tupelo. We then stopped off in Oxford before arriving in Memphis! What a great road trip!
Graceland goes without saying as a must see, but we LOVED Sun Studios!! We also loved Beale Street and, of course, the food. Rendevous is fantastic! Memphis in May was fun, but we wanted to see the area more. We didn’t make it to the Civil Rights Museum late enough on Sunday to visit it, though just standing outside the L. hotel was bone-chilling! (We did get panhandled there, though.)
I understand about the crime (coming from Jacksonville, FL) but I have to say that MEMPHIS IS ONE OF THE FRIENDLIEST CITIES I HAVE EVER VISITED! I will definitately be going back to experience it’s soulful charm.
By Borat
April 2, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this
Lauren, Sounds like you need to move back to Iran. You are religious intolerant and you hate white people. Your husband should take his belt and beat you.
By CT
April 2, 2008 1:34 PM | Link to this
Lauren, Your husband and I were joking about you the other day and how bad you are in bed.
By Lauren
April 2, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this
Borat, I am white you idiot.
CT, grow up.
If you haven’t lived there, you can’t know what I mean. Period.
By Mark
April 2, 2008 1:46 PM | Link to this
We didn’t go to graceland tho. Elvis was an overrated singer who couldn’t handle success. He became a fat, pill popping pompous a*s. Congrats to Mariah. you deserve it.
Besides all the blacks, Memfrica was still a good time.
By Borat
April 2, 2008 1:48 PM | Link to this
Lauren, you are a self hating white person who hates christians. I lived in Orange Mound for 5 years. About 10 minutes from the airport. Close to East Parkway. Believe me now?
By Mac
April 2, 2008 1:52 PM | Link to this
Mark, Elvis was overrated? Really? Because last time I checked he has a much BIGGER following than slut bag Mariah. At least he was original with his music. Besides, give it a couple of years and I’m sure she will end up like Britney.
By Lauren
April 2, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this
Borat, lmao @ you. Get a life. When people getting shot or stabbed in the neck at Kroger on Winchester Rd. in the middle of the day (two blocks from FEDEX Corporate) is a routine thing, you know you are living in a Cesspool. And that’s EAST Memphis! Lol. When even the nice areas are dangerous…
By Mark
April 2, 2008 1:59 PM | Link to this
Borat
Lauren was right on the money in her post. Memfrica is full of hypocritical xtian lemmings. It’s nice in some areas, but a sytehole in others. But that could be any city in the south where blacks are over populating.
By michael
April 2, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this
This is crazy to see so many original memphians talk bad about the city. Yeah it’s a lot of crime there but hey Atl. has a lot of crime also they are both about the same. And both have racist people living in there cities.The hip-hop artisit is what makes a lot of people come to Atlanta every video features an atlanta artist that’s not real life when these hateful cops here pull you over for stupid stuff and the courts charge these outrageous ticket fines. And you get fined for using your water outside they look like fools. The state of georgia is crooked as any politican i have ever seen. And if you want some good BBQ in memphis go to paynes on lamar or neelys on Mt. moriah And like one person said it’s the home of The Church of God In Christ and that is good enough for me. Maybe some of you need to visit a good COGIC service.
By Memphian
April 2, 2008 2:06 PM | Link to this
I grew up in memphis. lived there for 25 years. Sean is correct it is a very racist city and it is corrupt. but moreso the racisum is horrible. crime is terrible. my car got stolen 3 times, my apt was broken into 3 times, and my car was broken into twice.
stay away from there.
By Mark
April 2, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this
Mac
Charles Manson had a following too.
I find it humorous that “the king” died on his throne passing a royal turd! What a glorious end for such “royalty”. LOL
By Lauren
April 2, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this
I have a friend who just moved away from Memphis for the first time in her life and she is amazed how different and safe things are where she is now. She didn’t know what it was to live somewhere without feeling racial tension and fearing carjackings at every red-light. Moving from Memphis is the greatest sigh or relief a person can have. Even when moving to Atlanta, there is no comparison. I love it here.
By Rusty
April 2, 2008 2:09 PM | Link to this
Mark, Elvis has sold more music than anyone in the history of recorded sound. Congratulations Elvis, you deserve it.I’ll bet you went looking for Stax soul records though Mark but as you already know it’s not there anymore. Sun records is still there though. Go figure.
By CT
April 2, 2008 2:15 PM | Link to this
michael, COGIC is racist. The Rev Jeremiah Wright was a favorite of those idiots.
By Rusty
April 2, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this
Mark, show some respect you pric#. Must be nice for you to know when and where you’re going to die. Think about this bud, your little name on this blog is as famous as you’re EVER going to be. Hopefully for you someone other than your boyfriend is going to attend your paupers funeral.
By Mac
April 2, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this
Mark, Hitler had a following too. Should we go on with followings? Mariah is a twit with little fans. I don’t see people dressing up like her. Oh wait, yeah I did see some prostitutes the other night who had her outfits on.
By Breaking News
April 2, 2008 2:24 PM | Link to this
Nestle has renamed Butterfinger.
http://www.amonline.com/web/online/VendingMarketWatch-News/Nestl-USA-Renames-Butterfinger-Candy-Bar-As-The-Finger/1$21341
By sgt
April 2, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this
Cozy Corner has some of the best BBQ and Sweet Tea!!! I have lived in Atlanta all my life and have has some of the best BBQ around, but when I go to Memphis on business, I always try to go to Cozy Corner.
By Mark
April 2, 2008 2:53 PM | Link to this
Breaking News
They should have named it the Elvis bar, since it resembles the royal turd left in the king’s throne.
By Matt
April 2, 2008 2:58 PM | Link to this
I grew up in Atlanta (33 years) and moved to Memphis a little over a year ago. I can honestly say I enjoy living in Memphis more than Atlanta. Are there problems with Memphis? Sure. There is racism, corruption, and crime. But it’s not worse than what I saw in Atlanta (well, maybe the political corruption is worse). On the positive side, the cost of living is cheap, there is NO traffic, and, as a few others have mentioned, there’s actually character / soul to this city. It is unique. There is nothing unique about Atlanta. The BBQ is great, much better than anything I had in Atlanta. Beale Street is fun every now and then. I’d prefer to go out in Cooper Young. The only regret I have living in Memphis and not Atlanta is I now have to drive 7 hours to get to Georgia games and I don’t have the Braves on TV every night.
By vicki
April 2, 2008 3:32 PM | Link to this
When I was in Memphis last week the news reported that Mayor Willie Herrington was stepping down. Hopefully that will be a step in the right direction.
By vicki
April 2, 2008 3:33 PM | Link to this
When I was in Memphis last week the news reported that Mayor Willie Herrington was stepping down. Hopefully that will be a step in the right direction.
By Mark
April 2, 2008 3:51 PM | Link to this
Blacks should be banned from public office. Look what happened to Mayor Bill Campbell, Marion Barry, and now Willie. The only thing blacks can run is their mouths. They are liars and thieves….
By gamblemom
April 2, 2008 4:14 PM | Link to this
My family and I went to Memphis two weeks ago and had a WONDERFUL time. My two teenagers loved Sun Records and our time on Beale Street was the best time I have had in years! We had a great dinner at Rum Boogie and enjoyed all the live entertainment! Also, the trolley that they offer is WONDERUL and made our trips around the city fun and easy. On the downside, there are ALOT of homeless, someone at our hotel estimated there is 1 homeless for every Memphis Citizen and they come out in full force at night.
By Mark
April 2, 2008 4:15 PM | Link to this
Rusty
“Elvis has sold more music than anyone in the history of recorded sound.”
Looks like you don’t read the news. That distinction now goes to Mariah Carey. Elvis is now officially dead.
By Rusty
April 2, 2008 4:15 PM | Link to this
Mark, for someone who’s not an Elvis fan, you sure do refer to him as “The King” alot.
By Jan
April 2, 2008 4:17 PM | Link to this
I visited Memphis for the first time last fall; a girl's road trip. We did the Graceland thing, went out to eat, and took the trolley downtown and around the river. Had a good time, though we were a little taken aback by the sight of burglar bars and reinforced doors on virtually ALL the houses. And the fact that there were cop cars EVERYWHERE. I thought it was particularly ironic that most of the people working at Graceland were black, considering how most blacks resent his influence. We skipped Beale street; looked like a Memphis version of Underground Atlanta; read:cheesy tourist-trap rip-off. I would go back for a day trip, but not want to be a resident. Unfortunately, I’m getting to feel the same way about my born-and raised hometown of Atlanta!
By Rusty
April 2, 2008 4:33 PM | Link to this
Mark, buddy you’re just proving how stupid you really are. She is still behind the Beatles in #1’s so in Marks stupid logic the Beatles would be #1 in sales. Nowhere in this article has anyone but me mentioned sales. the article was about #1 songs. I’ll repeat my statement so try to understand what I’m saying. Elvis has SOLD more music than anyone in the history of recorded sound. Do you understand now stupid?
By Jennifer
April 2, 2008 4:48 PM | Link to this
Memphis is a microcosm of Atlanta. It has nearly EVERYTHING that Atlanta has, yet it’s rolled up into one small county. Yes, the crime and schools have significantly deteriorated the standard of living in the last decade due to corrupt politicians. I grew up there and will not raise my family there.
BUT, that doesn’t mean it’s not worth visiting. The city itself is like a character in a book. You can feel the soul and hometown charm. This city supports its teams, events, and ambassadors in a way that only Atlanta could dream of. It’s beautiful in the spring and fall, and the downtown Triple A ballpark is a fabulous place to take the kids. The majority of the zoo has been renovated. You can see Memphis’ own set of pandas, the polar bear and seal exhibits, and a fantastic Big Cat country, which the Atlanta zoo so lacks. There’s wonderful food, riverboat rides, and good eclectic shopping. It’s easy to get around and traffic is never bad - although life long citizens of Memphis will tell you it is. (They don’t know traffic:). For families with older children, there’s plenty of historical sites to visit. It would make for a very fun weekend family trip.
By grrtch
April 2, 2008 5:05 PM | Link to this
my first stop in Memphis always is Goner Records at Cooper and Young. I jaw a little with the guys behind the counter, pick up some great music on both CD AND vinyl. Of course I replace that old tattered copy of the Lowlife Guide to Memphis before I hit the streets hunting rock n roll landmarks that have yet to be enshrined like Sun and Stax…
By Blue on Memphis
April 2, 2008 5:46 PM | Link to this
I travel quite a bit..In the last three years I’ve been to: Miami, Tampa, Baltimore, Wash DC, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati, Detroit, Chicago, St. Louis, Dallas, San Antonio, Houston, Phonenix, San Diego, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Louisville, Nashville, New Orleans, Buffalo, Montreal, Toronto, Tokyo, Osaka, Atlanta (of course) and MEMPHIS! Memphis ranks by far near the BOTTOM of the list challenged only by Detroit and post-Katrina New Orleans.
By Elvis is King
April 2, 2008 6:47 PM | Link to this
I was born and raised in Atlanta in the 50s. Now I live downtown in a loft. I love my city but I hate it too. It’s home, it will always be home; but it lacks soul and character. The historical buildings are always being torn down for corporate interests. The civic leaders are inept and corrupt. The traffic is horrible. But spring and fall are magnificent here; you can’t beat it. But the summers are miserable. I love the Braves. I couldn’t live in a city without major league baseball. I visited Memphis for the first time a few months ago. There’s a lot more cultural significance there, especially musically. Graceland was amazing. So was the Stax Museum, and so was Sun Records. Beale Street was cool - we have nothing like it here. Little Five Points? Give me a break. But I didn’t find the great BBQ everyone keeps raving about. I ate at Marlowe’s, and it was horrible. The ribs at Fat Matt’s and Maddy’s here in Atlanta are so much better than the ones I had at Marlowe’s, I can’t even begin to describe the difference. But our blues music scene here is a joke. If you like hip hop, I guess the ATL is a good music town. But I don’t.
By Christopher
April 2, 2008 7:15 PM | Link to this
I used to spend one week per month in Memphis on business. I loathed every day leading up to the trip and loathed every moment I was there. Dirty and nasty with alot of rude people. Beale Street is a joke, it’s worse than Underground Atlanta, if that’s possible. I no longer have to travel there and would never go there again.
By Spacey
April 2, 2008 7:21 PM | Link to this
I agree with Christopher. Memphis is the worst city I have ever visited. It is dirty and scary. Four friends and I were on a cross country trek and stopped in Memphis for two days. We were robbed and stayed in what has to be the worst Best Western in the country. From Wyoming to Atlanta, the Memphis days almost ruined our trip. I’m laughing at the Underground Atlanta and Beale Street comparison. Yea, they are a lot alike!
By david corr
April 2, 2008 9:29 PM | Link to this
What about adult entertainment in Memphis?
By Justin
April 2, 2008 9:46 PM | Link to this
The whole south is racist and slow. Atlanta is the best down there, but it’s still behind. People have a slave mentality and refuse to accept and address it.
By Blue on Memphis
April 2, 2008 11:11 PM | Link to this
Spent over 30 years in Pittsburgh and 2 years in Detroit before Atlanta. Both of those cities are much more racist than Atlanta or anywhere else that I’ve been in the south.
By Katie
April 3, 2008 5:45 AM | Link to this
No, there’s not. Other than Elvis memorabilia, there’s nothing in Memphis. It’s a dump of a city and ELVIS IS DEAD!!!
By Frank
April 3, 2008 8:20 AM | Link to this
It saddens me to read all the racist remarks (from both black and white folk). I’m a New Yorker and while living in that city we accepted each others differences and treated a person with respect no matter the skin color, race or religion. The black polliticians feel that it is their time, that they are in control and want to make a difference to make up for the 400 years of slavery. Never met a slave, last I heard that ended over 150 years ago… Now people who lived thru segradation in the 60’s, well they have a right to b***h for how they were treated but that also was 40 years ago. We should never forget where this country was and the wrongs it has done to it’s people (think about the Indians, now they were a people really FxCKED over!). We’ve come a long way since then and it’s time we start living in the present. That goes out to both the backward azzed redneck rebel flag wavers and the Malcom X wanna be’s equally! As for the religious intollerants, do you realize what this country was based on? Get the corrupt polliticians out of office no matter their skin color or religion and hold them accountable (Bill Cambell LOSER). Vote for the best man (or woman!) for the job instead of by party, race, religion or gender and you start to see a difference. Now on the subject of Memphis… I dug the place. Great BBQ and the Blues clubs on Beale street rocked. Had an awesome time there! As a New Yorker I’ve been to the roughest of the rough so Memphis rates just average on the danger meter. Keep your head clear, don’t act like a azz munch tourist or get wasted and know where you’re going and you’ll do fine. Sure it’s a bit run down but that is it’s charm as was New Orleans… Underground Atl is crap plain and simple, no match for Beale St. Now Atl Blues isn’t as bad as the one poster mentioned. Check out Blind Willies or The Northside Tavern. Very cool rocking clubs! Fat Mac’s, Williams Brothers and several others do fine BBQ in this city but BBQ in Memphis will always be king. Do forgived this “Cracker azzed Yankee’s” long winded observations, just trying to put a little common sense and Clorine into the southern gene pool! ;O)