About
Whether you grew up singing along to soul hits or are a budding musician or music fan, you owe it to yourself to visit the Stax Museum of American Soul Music.
This iconic museum pays tribute to the artists, musicians, and history behind the Stax Records label. The museum is on the site of the original Stax Records studio, where artists like Otis Redding, Isaac Hayes, and the Staple Singers were captured on vinyl.
Arriving at the Stax Museum, you'll be awestruck by the eye-catching retro movie theater. The marquee's glowing neon lights, the glass block walls, and the grand entrance are a precursor of what awaits!
Once inside, you'll explore over 2,000 exhibits ranging from rare memorabilia and performance footage to vintage recording equipment. The centerpiece? A fully restored 1906 church from Mississippi since gospel music was at the core of soul music.
One hallmark is the Wall of Sound showcasing albums produced by Stax and its affiliated labels. Visitors can also see Isaac Hayes' decked-out gold Cadillac and memorabilia from other artists and musicians.
The museum's central location makes it easy to plan the ultimate music tour. After exploring Stax, head to the Blues Hall of Fame Museum, followed by a stop at the Memphis Rock n Soul Museum.
The Stax legacy is a story of creativity, resilience, and unity in the face of struggle and triumph. Visiting will inspire and remind you of the numerous hits produced by this iconic label.
Stax Museum of American Soul Music: Fun Facts & Cool Features
One of the coolest things to check out is Isaac Hayes' gold-plated Cadillac Eldorado. The car was part of his renegotiation with Stax as one of its songwriters and producers. Aside from the gold plating, the custom sedan has a refrigerated mini-bar, television, and white fur carpeting on the floorboards.
In 1972, Hayes became the first African-American composer to win an Oscar for "Best Original Song" for his soundtrack to the film Shaft. His coveted Oscar is also on display, adding a touch of Hollywood to your visit.
Another standout is the aforementioned 1906 Hoopers Chapel. This old structure embodies the profound influence of Southern gospel on the rise of soul music.
The Express Yourself dance floor is another hit with visitors. Unlike most museums that require restraint and quiet conversation, this part of the museum allows (encourages) you to sing and cut loose! Even if you lack the moves, the vintage episodes of Soul Train playing beside you may do the trick!
The Wall of Sound has to be seen to be believed. This section pays homage to the 800 singles and 300 albums produced by Stax Records. It's a visual and auditory spectacle of how the label contributed to the music industry and hit songs became anthems for the civil rights movement. To discover more about these turbulent times, add a visit to the National Civil Rights Museum.
The interactive exhibits let you have a firsthand musical experience. The recreated recording studios put you in the shoes of a 1960s music producer.
With its rich showcase of history and vibrant exhibits, a visit to the Stax Museum of American Soul Music is sure to be a highlight of your Memphis vacation.
Getting There
Here are step-by-step driving directions from downtown to the Stax Museum of American Soul Music:
- Head south on South Main Street toward Dr. M.L.K. Jr Avenue.
- Turn left onto East E.H. Crump Boulevard.
- Turn left onto Willie Mitchell Boulevard.
- Address: 926 E McLemore Ave, Memphis, TN 38106
Local Tips
- Take $1.50 off of the price of each admission for 15 or more.
- Parking is free.
- The family-friendly vibe and engaging exhibits will appeal to children.
- Tours stop at 4 PM; plan accordingly.
- The Backstage Pass bundles all the local music museums for $84.
