Memphis in May has arrived, an international festival recognizing and celebrating the unique culture of Memphis—and this year’s festival will feature a special spotlight on Ghana.
Kicked off with the Beale Street Music Fest and celebrated through cultural events all month long, the festival spotlights both the history and future of all the things that make Memphis so unique.
Naturally, Memphis music is at the forefront of Memphis’ story.
Located in the South Main district, the Central Station Hotel is dedicated to spotlighting and elevating Memphis’ rich musical history—not only in May—but all year long.
The Central Station Hotel is housed within the former train station in the birthplace of blues and Rock ‘n’ Roll, offering an authentic Memphis experience that reflects the city’s rich history in music, art and craftsmanship. The hotel’s design is also influenced by the popular transit hub, which passed through the 107-year-old historic midcentury building.
For locals and visitors alike, we’ve rounded up Central Station’s unique emphasis on Memphis music:
Expertly Curated Playlists
Did you know? Central Station offers a one-of-a-kind musical experience that pays homage to its city’s unique cultural history, including an on-staff Music Curator dedicated to providing guests with an exceptional sensory experience.
From artists born and raised in the city to songs recorded or produced nearby, the hotel has amassed a collection of more than 3,500 vinyl records each with a unique Memphis tie (that’s more music than guests could listen to in eight hours per day for 100 years!).
The plush lobby features daily DJs spinning records from a redesigned DJ booth creatively constructed from an old church organ – nicknamed “Elmertha” after Booker T. Jones’ piano teacher.
EgglestonWorks Speakers
The hotel’s impressive vinyl collection deserves to be shared, so Central Station partnered with Memphis-based EgglestonWorks to install premium speakers throughout the hotel. Speakers are even included in every guest room!
Speakers are even included in every guest room!
The tunes are provided 24/7, either by live DJ or by curated playlist.
Hidden Listening Lounge
For an incredibly-pure listening experience, Memphis-based EgglestonWorks and Central Station partnered to create “The Listening Lounge,” a private (and secret!) room available for anyone who can find it.
Grab a cocktail from the lobby bar, Eight & Sand, and experience music like never before!
Music-Inspired Décor
Music is also at the core of the Central Station’s design and ambience with art installations and furnishings throughout that act a nod to Memphis’ musical past and present.
Live Music
Not only is the hotel uniquely passionate about Memphis music, but it’s also housed inside a historic building!
Much like its namesake suggests, Central Station is home to a formerly bustling train station. With the tracks still operational, the hotel merges its lyrics and locomotives during its weekly “Live at the Tracks” series.
Happening every Thursday this summer, Live at the Tracks features live music from local musicians overlooking the railroad.
For a truly unique Memphis music experience, Central Station is a must-visit this May and beyond.
