Memphis Asks: Is Beale Street Okay?

In the heart of Memphis, where the notes of the blues float through the air and the city’s rich musical history thrives, there’s a troubling question buzzing around: Is Beale Street alright? Recent events have made tourists and locals alike ponder the future of this iconic street. Just last week, the famed Jerry Lee Lewis’ Cafe and Honky Tonk shut down, sparking concerns about the street’s spirit.

Beale Street, famous for its live music and vibrant nightlife, has long been a key attraction, drawing in more than 5.2 million visitors in 2023. Yet, some signs hint that things might not be as lively as before. With the recent closure of notable spots, like the Hard Rock Cafe which had its doors closed last year after a bumpy ride with the Memphis River Parks Partnership, coupled with the recent sale of Jerry Lee Lewis’ venue, people are wondering if Beale is losing its spark.

Club 152, another prominent venue on Beale, is also up for lease, leading to even more speculation about the street’s health. Kevin Kane, the President & CEO of Memphis Tourism and a co-owner of Club 152, weighed in on the situation. He noted that it’s not just Beale Street feeling the pinch; many restaurants and clubs across Memphis and Shelby County are facing similar challenges. “Yes, I think Beale Street numbers are down north of 20%, as are many, many food and beverage outlets here,” he said.

While the numbers may not seem great, Beale Street still holds an important place in the hearts of many. The closures have stirred up some concern, with tourists questioning if the area is safe or worth visiting, especially with some crime statistics reportedly on the uptick. However, Kane assured that any talk of Beale Street’s downfall is greatly exaggerated. “As far as these real estate changes and businesses looking to sell, it is not an indication that Beale Street is on the downside or things are down the drain,” he emphasized.

As for the recent closure of Jerry Lee Lewis’ Cafe, it seems there was already some internal strife before the final shutdown. Judith Lewis, Jerry Lee’s widow, mentioned that her late husband had become unhappy with how the venue was being run. “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. This indicates that some of these closures might be more derived from individual management issues than a broader decline.

Interestingly, the former Hard Rock Cafe site has been sold for $5 million and plans are already underway to transform it into the Memphis Rock ‘n Soul Museum. This transition suggests that some businesses see the potential for renewal and revitalization on Beale.

Despite the shifts, many visitors still feel enchanted by Beale Street’s vibrant atmosphere. Karen Johnson, a spirited tourist from Australia, expressed her excitement for the area. “It’s the icing on my cake. I just love it. It’s so rich in history,” she said, hopeful that a passionate investor would snag up some of the properties to breathe new life into Beale. “I hope a good investor comes along to buy the building and rejuvenate things and bring more life and more tourism,” she added, reflecting the sentiment of many hopefuls.

The ever-changing entertainment scene is a reality many cities face; however, the history and culture attached to Beale Street make its future particularly significant to both locals and visitors. Memphis thrives on its music and culinary traditions, established long before many of us arrived.

While the future may look uncertain, the potential for change and growth is evident. Investments for new projects could lead to an exciting reinvention of stunning new venues and activities. The rhythm of the blues may just be quieter for now, but it’s not dead yet. With visitors still drawn to its melody, Beale Street might just need a little TLC to keep its legacy alive.

As the community and stakeholders continue to respond to these challenging times, only time will tell how the street that shaped the sounds of Memphis will adapt and thrive. It’s an ongoing story—one that we, and the millions who cherish it, will be keeping a close eye on.