Where the mighty Mississippi meets the Appalachians, Tennessee is a crucible of American culture. Consequently, its two largest cities, Nashville and Memphis, hold significant prestige regarding culinary delights and, above all else, music.
Nashville: The Heart of Music City
A resident of Nashville for over a decade, Bailey Freeman has fallen completely in love with the city’s creativity. As she engages with both storytelling and acrobatics, she experiences the enchanting essence of Nashville.
The Vibe of Nashville
People describe Nashville’s vibe as one that hums. Music flows from honky-tonks and various bars, while kitchens dish out everything from sumptuous down-home meals to exquisite culinary presentations. Additionally, many parks and trails buzz with chattering locals and lively animals. Although the city is renowned for country music, its musical identity is multifaceted.
A Legacy of Music
This city stands as one of the South’s great cultural bastions, particularly in music. The Fisk Jubilee Singers originated the town’s musical legacy in 1873, performing for England’s Queen Victoria. She remarked that they hailed from a “city of music,” coining Nashville’s famous nickname, “Music City.” Following this, Nashville witnessed the rise of the blues, R&B, and the ongoing cultural phenomenon of the Grand Ole Opry.
Nashville’s music scene owes much to Memphis, drawing inspiration from its rich blues and roots traditions. Today, live music fills every corner of Nashville, from downtown to East Nashville and South Nashville, showcasing genres that span country to experimental punk.
Art and Culture
Beyond music, Nashville’s artistic landscape thrives. Art crawls in Downtown and Wedgewood Houston highlight local talents, while venues like CE Gallery regularly feature innovative theater and dance performances. Local events span various genres, from hip-hop to queer dance parties, diversifying the local entertainment scene.
Culinary Delights
This creativity extends to Nashville’s culinary offerings. The city promises guests good food and drink, with iconic dishes like hot chicken and traditional meat-and-three meals. Notable dining establishments like Locust and Audrey showcase Nashville’s culinary innovation, while places such as Rolf & Daughters and Tailor push boundaries in cuisine.
Memphis: The Real Music City
Joe Sills, a travel writer and photojournalist, was born and raised in Memphis, immersing himself in the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
For true music lovers, Memphis is a bucket-list destination. While Nashville markets itself as Music City, Memphis is the cornerstone of several genres, including the blues, rock ‘n’ roll, soul, and hip-hop.
Where Music Began
Visit Memphis’ iconic Sun Studio to discover the original pressing of “Rocket 88,” recognized as the first rock ‘n’ roll hit. Moreover, the studio houses vinyl records from blues legends, underlining Memphis’ pivotal contribution to rock music. The city has birthed artists like Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and many more, leaving a lasting imprint on the music industry.
The Contemporary Scene
In modern times, Memphis’ influence extends into hip-hop, with artists like GloRilla and Young Dolph emerging from the city. Additionally, Memphis boasts a rich culinary scene, with beloved BBQ joints like The Bar-B-Q Shop and Cozy Corner Restaurant serving up mouth-watering dishes.
Conclusion
Nashville and Memphis are remarkable cities that offer a unique blend of music, art, and food. Each city presents its own rich tapestry of culture, making Tennessee a destination that resonates with history and innovation.
