Memphis’ legendary music scene continues to shine on the world stage as two recordings with deep roots in the Bluff City—Big Star’s #1 Record and Eddie Floyd’s Knock on Wood—have been inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame. The Recording Academy announced this prestigious honor as part of its annual celebration of recordings that have left a lasting cultural and historical impact.
Big Star: The Underdog Heroes of Rock
If you know, you know: Big Star was one of the most influential bands that never quite made it big. Despite their name, the Memphis-based rock band never saw commercial success during their time, but their music left a deep imprint on rock and alternative music for decades to come.
Released in 1972, #1 Record was the debut album from Big Star, a group fronted by Alex Chilton (formerly of The Box Tops) and Chris Bell, alongside bassist Andy Hummel and drummer Jody Stephens. The album was filled with shimmering guitars, tight harmonies, and heartfelt songwriting—qualities that would later make it a cornerstone for power pop and alternative rock movements.
Critics adored it, but poor distribution from their record label meant that #1 Record didn’t reach the audiences it deserved at the time. However, musicians and music lovers didn’t let it disappear. Over the years, bands like R.E.M., The Replacements, Wilco, and even contemporary indie acts have sung Big Star’s praises, drawing direct inspiration from their sound.
The Grammy Hall of Fame induction cements #1 Record’s place in history, ensuring that future generations will recognize Big Star’s brilliance. If you haven’t already, it’s time to dive into The Ballad of El Goodo, Thirteen, and In the Street (which later became the theme song for That ‘70s Show).
Eddie Floyd’s Knock on Wood: A Stax Classic That Keeps on Giving
Before Memphis had a grip on power pop, it was the undeniable capital of soul, thanks to Stax Records. Among the label’s many hits, Knock on Wood stands tall as a timeless classic.
Eddie Floyd, a singer and songwriter closely tied to Stax, co-wrote Knock on Wood in 1966 with the legendary Steve Cropper during a stormy night at the Lorraine Motel. Originally intended as a demo for Otis Redding, Floyd’s version took on a life of its own. Fueled by the unmistakable drum groove from Al Jackson Jr., the song became an R&B chart-topper and remains one of the most recognizable soul tracks ever recorded.
But the song’s legacy didn’t stop there. Over the years, it has been covered by an impressive lineup of artists, including David Bowie, Bruce Springsteen, and disco queen Amii Stewart, whose 1979 version turned it into a dancefloor anthem. Its inclusion in the Grammy Hall of Fame is well deserved, as it continues to stand as a defining piece of Memphis’ musical legacy.
Memphis’ Everlasting Influence on Music
With these two additions, Memphis now boasts dozens of Grammy Hall of Fame recordings, spanning from the earliest days of recorded blues to the golden age of rock and soul. The city’s influence has never wavered, and these latest inductions are a testament to that.
Other Memphis artists and records already honored in the Grammy Hall include W.C. Handy, Elvis Presley, Otis Redding, Al Green, and Johnny Cash. Big Star and Eddie Floyd now join this prestigious list, reinforcing that Memphis remains one of the most important musical cities in the world.
More Memphis Grammy Moments
This year’s Grammy celebrations had even more Memphis connections. Rising rap star GloRilla was among the 2025 Grammy nominees, and hometown legend Justin Timberlake also received a nomination.
Even Memphis educators got their moment to shine. Adrian L. Maclin, a choral director at Cordova High School, was named the 2025 Music Educator of the Year, an honor given to outstanding teachers who make a lasting impact on their students. Another Memphian, J.D. Frizzell from Briarcrest Christian School, was also a finalist.
How to Celebrate These Memphis Icons
Feeling inspired? Here’s how you can celebrate the latest Grammy Hall of Fame honorees and keep Memphis’ music culture alive:
🎵 Spin the classics – Add #1 Record and Knock on Wood to your playlist and experience the magic yourself.
📀 Visit Stax Museum – Walk through the history of soul music at the Stax Museum of American Soul Music and see where legends like Eddie Floyd and Otis Redding made history.
🎸 Check out the next Big Star – Support local bands and venues in Memphis. You never know who the next Alex Chilton might be.
📚 Read up on Memphis music history – Pick up books about the history of Stax, Sun Studio, and Big Star to dive deeper into the stories behind the songs.
The Grammy Hall of Fame just reminded the world what we already knew—Memphis music is forever. Whether it’s the raw soul of Eddie Floyd or the melodic genius of Big Star, our city’s sound continues to resonate. And as long as there’s music, Memphis will always have a song to sing.
