The Southern United States is a region of the country that’s full of rich musical history. From the birthplace of jazz in New Orleans to the home of the blues in Memphis, there’s a lot to explore on a musical tour of the South. Here’s a guide to some of the best destinations for music lovers in the Southern United States.
- New Orleans, Louisiana: The Birthplace of Jazz
New Orleans is a city that’s known for its vibrant and eclectic music scene. Jazz was born in New Orleans in the early 20th century, and the city is still a hotbed of jazz activity today. Visitors can explore famous jazz clubs like Preservation Hall, catch a live performance at the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, or take a walking tour of the city’s historic jazz landmarks.
- Memphis, Tennessee: The Home of the Blues
Memphis is a city that’s steeped in the history of the blues. Visitors can explore famous blues landmarks like Beale Street, Sun Studio, and Graceland (the former home of Elvis Presley). The Stax Museum of American Soul Music is another must-visit attraction in Memphis, featuring exhibits on the history of soul music and the famous Stax record label.
- Nashville, Tennessee: The Capital of Country Music
Nashville is a city that’s known as the capital of country music. Visitors can explore famous country music landmarks like the Grand Ole Opry, the Country Music Hall of Fame, and the historic RCA Studio B (where Elvis Presley and other famous musicians recorded their hits). The honky-tonks on Lower Broadway are another popular attraction in Nashville, offering live music and plenty of Southern hospitality.
- Muscle Shoals, Alabama: The Birthplace of Southern Soul
Muscle Shoals is a small town in Alabama that played a big role in the development of Southern soul music. The town’s FAME Studios and Muscle Shoals Sound Studio were responsible for recording hits by famous musicians like Aretha Franklin, Wilson Pickett, and the Rolling Stones. Visitors can take a tour of the studios and learn about the history of Southern soul music.
- Atlanta, Georgia: A Hub for Hip-Hop and R&B
Atlanta is a city that’s known for its vibrant hip-hop and R&B scene. Visitors can explore famous landmarks like the Trap Music Museum and the Center for Civil and Human Rights, which celebrate the city’s musical and cultural heritage. The city is also home to famous musicians like Outkast, Ludacris, and TLC.
Conclusion
The Southern United States is a region of the country that’s full of rich musical history. From the birthplace of jazz in New Orleans to the home of the blues in Memphis and the capital of country music in Nashville, there’s something for every music lover in this part of the country. By exploring these musical destinations, you can experience the unique and diverse sounds of the South and create unforgettable travel experiences and memories that will last a lifetime.
