Memphis just made history…again.
On Friday, May 2, rap icon and activist Chuck D of Public Enemy was honored at the Stax Museum of American Soul Music with the inaugural Reverb Award, a powerful new distinction from the Soulsville Foundation’s Power of Music Honors.
Presented by songwriting legend David Porter (“Soul Man,” “Hold On, I’m Comin’”), the award recognized Chuck D for his music, decades of unapologetic activism, cultural commentary, and impact on generations.
“I grew up on my mom’s Stax records...To this day I’m still in complete awe of the genius and legacy that came out of the soul of Memphis.”
A Bridge from Soul to Hip-Hop
The Reverb Award echoes impact, and no one embodies that more than Chuck D. With songs like “Fight the Power,” he transformed hip-hop into a tool for truth-telling, protest, and power. His voice became a megaphone for justice, just like the voices of Stax greats before him.
“Chuck D transcends the sequestered space of musicians as entertainment...He has fueled the knowledge and self-determination of a generation.”
The Power of Music Lives On in Memphis
Current students of the Stax Music Academy, which is celebrating its 25th anniversary, took the stage to perform “Respect Yourself” and “I Am Somebody,” affirming that the mission of Memphis music is alive, thriving, and still changing lives.
💡 Fun fact: The Soulsville Foundation also runs Music Employs, an initiative helping young creatives find their voice and path through mentorship, training, and real-world experience in the arts.
Why This Moment Matters
This was a full-circle celebration of Memphis music.
From soul to hip-hop, from Otis Redding to Chuck D, from Stax to today, Memphis continues to be a city where music entertains, educates, liberates, and empowers.
📬 Want more Memphis moments like this? Subscribe to the Choose901 newsletter and follow @Choose901 on socials for local stories that inspire.
