MEMPHIS MAYHEM A Story of the Music That Shook Up the World

This thoughtful reflection on Memphis's music history is complemented by narrator Chris Abernathy's soft Southern accent and relaxed timing. Abernathy uses a conversational tone when reporting on the cultural roots of the blues and rock and roll and employs a storytelling mode when recounting music memories. While Memphis had its racist incidents, including lynchings and the assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr., it also pioneered interracial songwriting, integrated bands, and racial diversity in recording sessions. The combination of local school music programs, interracial venues, and innovative studios and labels produced hits for artists including Elvis Presley, Otis Redding, Johnny Cash, Al Green, and Isaac Hayes. The audiobook also tracks current phenomena such as Black Lives Matter activities and the city's $3.6 billion music tourism industry. R.W.S. © AudioFile 2020, Portland, Maine [Published: DECEMBER 2020]