Memphis Musicology

On this episode of Memphis Musicology, we take a deeper look into the brass notes that line Beale Street, choosing seven relatively obscure names to delve into. We also take a listen to two new songs from some of Memphis' finest up-and-coming groups.  Vote Memphis Musicology for best podcast in this years Memphis Flyer Best Of!

Since protests broke out nationwide in the wake of the death of George Flloyd, Memphis musicians of all stripes have been responding with music that speaks directly to our current moment. On today's show, we survey some of these songs from artists such as Chinese Connection Dub Embassy, Aktion Kat, Jordan Occasionally, and MonoNeon.

On this episode of Memphis Musicology, we play some of our favorite Memphis tunes relating to the themes of our current troubled time: madness, isolation, illness, etc. In the meantime, take care of yourselves and each other and please remember to continue to support your local music scene, now more than ever. If you’d like to donate to OAM to help with rent relief you can do so @ www.theoamnetwork.com/donate

On this episode of Memphis Musicology, we sit down with Graham Winchester, a prolific singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist who discusses two upcoming projects: His self-titled solo 45 and the debut album “Cut You Off” from his band Turnstyles. Following that, we take a look at the relationship between sports and Memphis music, from Jerry Lawler’s singing career to Rufus Thomas’ role in the invention of the touchdown celebration.

On this episode of Memphis Musicology, we discuss the role that Memphis played in the development of gospel music, which forms the backbone of the “Memphis Sound.” From early pioneers like Lucie Campbell to rising stars like the Sensational Barnes Brothers, it’s clear that Memphians make sanctified music with the best of them.

Happy holidays, ya’ll! On this episode of Memphis Musicology, we check out some of the best Americana Christmas tunes from Memphis, including offerings from Valerie June, Jessie Mae Hemphill, Dale Watson, and many more!

On this episode of Memphis Musicology, we discuss the role that Memphis played during the Blaxploitation film explosion of the 1970s. From Isaac Hayes’ iconic Shaft soundtrack to the new Dolemite Is My Name soundtrack from Scott Bomar , it’s clear that the genre wouldn’t have been the same without the contributions of some of the Bluff City’s best.

S2E21: Trap Godfather: Tommy Wright III

S2E20: The Quiet Revolution

S2E19: The Ghost in the Machine

S2E18: Leaders of the New School

S2E17: Memphis Musicology Live! Ft. David Porter

S2E16: Yin & Yang

S2E15: The Last Man Standing

S2E14: Spring Cleaning in 8 Acts

S2E13: WHER: “The Nation’s All Girl Station”

S2E12: Rosco’s Right Hand Reggae

On this episode of Memphis Musicology, we survey Memphis musicians about what they consider the best song from Memphis’ musical history, regardless of era or genre. Tune in as we hear from members of The Box Tops, Big Star, Unapologetic, and many many explaining their choices!

On this episode of Memphis Musicology, we discuss the profound legacy left by Phineas Newborn Sr. and his two sons, Phineas Jr. and Calvin. Beginning in the 1940s, these men changed the face of Memphis music for decades and had direct ties to the blues, soul, and rock n roll revolutions that sprung out of Memphis in the ensuing years. We also take a trip to The Crate to explore one of the stranger albums we’ve ever covered on this show.

On this episode of Memphis Musicology, we take a survey of some of the most dynamic and important instrumental tracks to come out of the Bluff City in the past 60 years, from early rockabilly numbers all the way up to modern hip-hop beats. We also head to The Crate to dissect Gimmer Nicholson’s 1968 instrumental masterpiece Christopher Idylls, an album that despite being unreleased for years still managed to deeply influence the music of Big Star and others.