Memphis has long been a city defined by music. From the soul-stirring blues of Beale Street to the hip-hop beats that pulse through today’s scene, our city’s sound has shaped the world. But what if Memphis could do even more? That’s exactly what city leaders, musicians, and industry professionals explored in the recently unveiled Memphis Music Strategy Report, an ambitious roadmap to making music a sustainable career path and economic engine for our city.
About the Project
Memphis is synonymous with music. Distinct sounds and genres, landmark recording studios, historical homes, and a community of talented creatives are just some of the ways Memphis has gained its reputation as a music destination.
In 2023, Sound Diplomacy was commissioned to work with the Greater Memphis Chamber, the City of Memphis, and key stakeholders across the city to deliver an extensive analysis and a comprehensive music strategy with actionable recommendations of what needs to happen to strengthen, grow, and protect the music ecosystem in Memphis.
The music ecosystem in Memphis contributes significantly to the local economy, generating a total output of over $720 million. Beyond the economic impact of the ecosystem itself, music has the power to be a significant source of social and cultural value.
Memphis Music Is A Legacy Worth Building On
As artist Talibah Safiya put it, “Right now, we have the opportunity to build Memphis’ musical history.” That means taking intentional steps to invest in our musicians, infrastructure, and creative economy. Memphis is already home to over 1,100 music-related assets, from historic recording studios to live music venues and production facilities. But there’s room to grow.
Memphis Mayor Paul Young emphasized that, “Arts and culture are a need to have, not a want to have.” That means making sure the industry is thriving for both artists and the city’s economy.
The Numbers Behind the Movement
5,000 local jobs are currently tied to the music industry.
1,162 music-related assets across the city, including venues, production spaces, and cultural institutions.
A vision to increase density of music professionals and bring more industry opportunities to Memphis.
Building an Infrastructure for Music Careers
While Memphis has an undeniable talent pool, we need stronger career pathways for musicians, producers, and industry professionals. Tecora Murray, Executive Director of the Greater Memphis Economic Research Group, stressed the need for investment in resources and education to help local talent thrive.
Key Goals of the Memphis Music Strategy:
Expanding opportunities for artists to make a living in Memphis (like funding for touring musicians through Music Export Memphis).
Developing sustainable career paths, from performance to production to music business roles.
Growing Memphis’ presence in national and global music markets through initiatives like Crosstown Sync and industry partnerships.
Dreaming Big: What’s Next for Memphis Music?
A major theme of the strategy is thinking bigger. As one panelist, Ted Townsend President & CEO of the Greater Memphis Chamber, challenged: “Why don’t we dream as big as we can dream? Because we’re Memphis.” That includes embracing hip-hop’s growing influence and integrating fashion and production into the scene.
Key initiatives include:
Expanding grants and financial support for local musicians.
Bringing more industry executives and businesses to Memphis.
Leveraging Memphis’ entrepreneurial spirit to launch new music-centered businesses and startups.
How You Can Support Memphis Music
Whether you’re a musician, industry professional, or simply a music lover, there are ways to help grow Memphis’ music economy:
Follow and support local artists. Attend shows, stream their music, and share their work.
Check out Music Export Memphis. If you’re an artist, see if you qualify for grants to help your music career.
Spread the word! Memphis is making moves, and the more we rally behind our city’s talent, the more we can make this vision a reality.
Visit MemphisMusicStrategy.com to learn more. Let’s continue building a Memphis music scene that’s as legendary as its past and as powerful as its future.
