Memphis’ Beale Street Faces Changes: Is Everything Alright?

Memphis, Tennessee — The iconic Beale Street, known worldwide for its vibrant blues scene, is currently under observation as some beloved establishments close their doors. Recent events have left many wondering if this vital artery of Memphis’ music culture is feeling the blues.

– Just last week, the news broke that Jerry Lee Lewis’ Cafe and Honky Tonk has been sold and is now closed. This closure has added to the growing list of changes on Beale Street, stirring up concerns among locals and tourists alike.

On the opposite end of the entertainment zone, Club 152 is also searching for a new tenant, sparking further discussions about the state of business on this famous street. Kevin Kane, the President & CEO of Memphis Tourism and an owner of Club 152, noted that this decline isn’t unique to Beale Street. “Yes, I think Beale Street numbers are down north of 20%, as are many, many food and beverage outlets in Memphis and Shelby County,” Kane stated.

Even though Beale Street remains a key attraction, drawing in over 5.2 million visitors in 2023, it has faced some significant shake-ups recently. The Hard Rock Cafe on Beale closed last year, and this year, the popular Memphis in May Beale Street Music Festival was canceled due to a fallout with the Memphis River Parks Partnership. Not to mention, the famed World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest also moved from its long-standing spot on Beale Street to Liberty Park.

While some blame crime for the decline in visitors, Kevin Kane quickly brushes off any notions that Beale Street is doomed. “Any reports of the demise of Beale Street are exaggerated,” he remarked confidently. To put it another way, he believes that these real estate movements and business transactions hint more at an evolving market than an outright downfall of this historic locale.

As for the closure of Jerry Lee Lewis’ bar, the situation seems to have been complex. Judith Lewis, the late entertainer’s wife, revealed that before his death, Jerry had differences with the owners about the club’s direction. “Jerry told them he wanted no part of it because it was not playing his music, and it was not what he thought it should be,” she shared.

Kevin Kane emphasized that these business deals weren’t sudden developments. “Jerry Lee’s has been on the market for a few years. If you remember, Hard Rock was talking about putting a Hard Rock Hotel down there. There were negotiations for that, and that deal fell through,” he revealed, clarifying that the shifts witnessed recently have deeper roots.

Despite the closures, many tourists still feel a connection to Beale Street. Karen Johnson, an excited visitor all the way from Australia, shared her enthusiasm about the area. “It’s the icing on my cake. I just love it. It’s so rich in history,” she exclaimed. Johnson hopes that a “good investor comes along to buy the building and rejuvenate things and bring more life and more tourism.”

Interestingly, the former Hard Rock Cafe, which sold for a hefty $5 million earlier this year, is slated for transformation. It is set to become the new home of the Memphis Rock ‘n Soul Museum, a creative way to revitalize the area while preserving the unique musical legacy of Memphis.

So, what does the future hold for Beale Street? While closures raise eyebrows and stir concerns, the sentiments from both tourists and local stakeholders suggest a mixed bag of potential. On one hand, there’s anxiety over what the changes might mean for the future of live music and nightlife. On the other hand, there remains an undeniable hope that Beale Street will adapt and thrive, appealing to both seasoned regulars and newcomers alike.

As Memphis continues to navigate through these changes, one thing is clear: Beale Street has always been more than just a street; it’s the heart and soul of a musical legacy that resonates far beyond its geographical boundaries. Whether through new investors, refreshed venues, or a commitment to quality music, it seems the spirit of Beale will find a way to keep the blues alive.