Memphis, September 2, 2025
News Summary
Memphis gears up for a vibrant celebration of B.B. King’s legacy with ‘100 Days of Blues.’ Kicking off on June 8 and culminating on September 16, the city will host concerts, festivals, and museum exhibits, highlighting the blues icon’s profound impact on music. Key events include the Stax Museum’s special exhibit and a free family festival on Beale Street, honoring King’s music that defined a genre and inspired generations.
Memphis is gearing up to celebrate the 100th birthday of legendary blues musician B.B. King this September, with a festive initiative titled “100 Days of Blues.” The citywide celebration will kick off on June 8, 2025, and culminate on his actual birthday, September 16, 2025. Events throughout this period aim to honor the profound impact of B.B. King’s music, which transcended genres and inspired generations, solidifying Memphis as a global music capital.
B.B. King was born on September 16, 1925. Over the coming months, Memphis will host a diverse range of events, including live concerts, street festivals, museum exhibits, and various tributes. A highlight of the celebration is the Stax Museum’s special exhibit titled “B.B. King in Memphis,” featuring never-before-seen photos, a custom-curated jukebox, and an autographed Gibson Lucille guitar. This exhibit will run from July through October 19, with admission prices set at $20 for adults, $16 for children ages 7-12, and free entry for kids under 7.
The celebrations will officially begin at B.B. Kingโs Blues Club with a free family-friendly festival on Beale Street on September 14. This festival will feature a host of performers, including DJ Stan Bell, Stax Music Academy, Grizzline, Corey Lou & DaVillage Band, all hosted by Kontji Anthony. The main event on September 16, B.B. Kingโs actual birthday, will feature a ticketed all-star concert at B.B. Kingโs Blues Club, featuring celebrated artists such as Bobby Rush, Boo Mitchell, Carla Thomas, and various members of the B.B. King All-Star Legends.
As part of the countdown to B.B. King’s birthday, Audie Smith will perform blues-inspired songs every Monday night at Charโs. To enhance the experience, visitors can take photographs with the โSt. Blues Guitarโ mural by artist Brandon Marshall at the St. Blues Guitar Workshop.
The 100 Days of Blues celebration will include a tribute concert at Overton Park Shell on August 29, honoring both B.B. King and Bobby Blue Bland. Tours of the historic Overton Park Shell, which has hosted many blues legends in the past, will also be offered throughout the day on September 16, at 11 a.m., 2 p.m., and 4 p.m., with admission priced at $16.
The Blues Hall of Fame will provide exhibits tracing the history of blues music, including displays dedicated to B.B. King’s rich legacy. For visitors looking for a deeper understanding of B.B. King, the Mojo Music Tour will offer insights into his life and career, available daily at 1:30 p.m. and on Saturdays at 10 a.m.
In addition, the Withers Museum is displaying a unique collection of photographs capturing B.B. King by famed photojournalist Dr. Ernest C. Withers. Elvis Presleyโs Graceland has joined the celebrations by featuring B.B. King’s iconic Lucille guitar in its ICONS exhibit. Memphis encourages visitors to dive into the cityโs vibrant music scene as it pays homage to its distinguished musical heritage, particularly B.B. King.
To keep track of all planned festivities, a complete lineup of events is available on memphistravel.com, making it easy for locals and visitors alike to join the celebration of B.B. Kingโs lasting legacy in blues music.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When is B.B. King’s 100th birthday celebration taking place?
The celebration begins on June 8, 2025, and continues until September 16, 2025, which is B.B. King’s actual birthday.
2. What types of events are included in the “100 Days of Blues” celebration?
Events include live concerts, street festivals, museum exhibits, tributes, tours, and much more.
3. Where can I see the “B.B. King in Memphis” exhibit?
The exhibit is hosted at the Stax Museum and runs from July to October 19, 2025.
4. What is the admission fee for the Stax Museum exhibit?
Admission is $20 for adults, $16 for children ages 7-12, and free for children under 7.
5. How can I participate in the free family-friendly festival on Beale Street?
The festival takes place on September 14, 2025, and is open to everyone for free.
6. Is there a special concert for B.B. King’s birthday?
Yes, an all-star concert is scheduled at B.B. Kingโs Blues Club on September 16 featuring various renowned artists.
Key Features of the B.B. King 100th Birthday Celebration
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Celebration Duration | June 8, 2025 – September 16, 2025 |
| Main Venue | B.B. Kingโs Blues Club |
| Key Events | Family Festival on Beale Street, All-Star Concert, Museum Exhibits |
| Special Exhibit | “B.B. King in Memphis” at Stax Museum |
| Admission for Exhibit | $20 for adults, $16 for children 7-12, free for under 7 |
| Tour Availability | Historic Overton Park Shell, daily tours on September 16 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Memphis Music Scene Set for Transformation by 2026
Explore the Rich History of The Withers Collection in Memphis
Memphis Gears Up for Transformative Changes in 2025
Memphis Welcomes New Comic Series and Animated Show
New Yearโs Eve Events in Memphis for 2025
Additional Resources
- AOL: B.B. King Turns 100
- Wikipedia: B.B. King
- Digital Music News: Memphis Honors B.B. King’s 100th Birthday
- Google Search: B.B. King
- GlobeNewswire: Memphis Prepares for B.B. King’s 100th Birthday
- Google Scholar: B.B. King
- Memphis Magazine: Your Weekly Guide to the Arts
- Encyclopedia Britannica: B.B. King
- Graceland: New B.B. King Display Now at ICONS Exhibit
- Google News: B.B. King 100th Birthday
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
