Memphis Rock 'n' Soul Museum Admission

Absolutely incredible the kids learned a lot and the headphones allowed you to do it at your own pace…

As its name suggests, this museum traces the development of rock and soul music. Starting with the influence of rural blues and country music, the exhibits show how Memphis became a hub for blues, gospel, and jazz musicians and then home of pioneers of rock and roll and soul at spots like Sun Studios and Stax Records. Admission includes a headset which plays narration and song clips that go along with the displays. It's not a very large museum, but it's very well curated with lots of artifacts and clear organization. There are several other music museums in town, but if you can only visit one, start here for a good overview of music in Memphis.

Really cool place, tons of memorabilia and history. Highly recommended. Take your time and take it all in.

Very informative displays, nice musical selections.

This was across from the Westin Hotel and next to the Fed Ex Forum; so we just walked across the street. There is a 15 minute short film first and then everyone is given a headset to follow at your own pace (self-guided) to enjoy. the history of Memphis music from the 1900's to present. Enjoyed pushing the buttons to listen to different songs from the "jukeboxes" and the display of instruments, costumes and music legends and even the civil rights and Civil War. It is a great museum for all ages. Plan on spending about 2 hours.

We came here on a Monday afternoon and spent two hours immersing in the mixture of music history stemming from Memphis' influence. This was a very well done museum by the Smithsonian Institute.

This was a great self guided tour full of history and information. My 11 year old struggled a bit due to the vast amount of information. Overall, I would recommend, just keep in mind the difference in experience based on age.

Really enjoyed this museum as it had so many mementos of the rich musical history of Memphis. You start out with watching a brief film and then you are provided headsets that take you along at your own pace. I really enjoyed all the stops along the way…from the early beginnings of soul right up to the 70/80s. And it’s interesting how some of those 70/80’s tunes show up in movie soundtracks now. I really enjoyed some of the clothing that was shown….since I sew, all those custom-made glittery and sequined clothes were interesting to view. Overall, this was the only museum we went to in Memphis and it covered all the great history this city has to offer!

The cultural impact on the U.S. and the music recording industry being celebrated by this museum is extremely important! But there isn’t much to the museum itself. With a 90-minute tour recommended, it’s a very quick loop that can be made in about 20 minutes, even if you savor the exhibits. The on-stage clothing from various celebrities like Al Green, Elvis Presley, and Johnny Cash is all very interesting! The impact of black musicians is evident, something that should be heralded. Ike Turner’s first piano is a pleasant surprise! And perhaps the crown jewel of the exhibit comes at the very end, the Ardent Studios soundboard that mixed albums for every group ranging from Led Zeppelin to Juvenile, old school rock to modern hip hop. But the tour is far too short to warrant the $16 entry fee.

Nice, smaller size museum. Lots of information and cool stuff. My husband and I enjoyed our visit and learned a few new things.