Memphis, TN, September 11, 2025
News Summary
The Stax Museum of American Soul Music is set to unveil a new exhibit titled ‘B.B. King in Memphis’, showcasing rare photographs of the legendary blues musician. The exhibit will feature images from King’s 1982 concert at Mud Island Amphitheater, curated by Alan Copeland. The opening reception will be free, with a guided tour and a curated jukebox of King’s music. Attendees must register in advance as the exhibit runs from July to October, celebrating King’s lasting legacy in Memphis music.
Memphis Set to Celebrate B.B. King with New Exhibit
A new exhibit titled “B.B. King in Memphis” is set to debut on Thursday, July 24, 2025, at the Stax Museum of American Soul Music. This exhibit will showcase never-before-seen photographs of the legendary blues musician, highlighting his 1982 Labor Day Weekend concert at the Mud Island Amphitheater. Curated by renowned photographer Alan Copeland, this collection of black-and-white images will mark the first public display of these rare visuals.
The opening reception for the exhibit is free and is scheduled to begin at 6 p.m. Attendees can enjoy a guided tour of the exhibit, along with a curated jukebox featuring B.B. Kingโs 1982 setlist, paired with rare audio from his broadcasts at WDIA. Light refreshments, including complimentary wine and beer from Donelsonโs Catering, will also be provided. Due to limited space, it is required that attendees register in advance through Eventbrite.
This exhibit will be accessible to visitors from July 25 through October 19, 2025. Sponsorship for the exhibit has been secured by Newberry Tanks, a Memphis-based tank and barrel manufacturer. Chris Long, the CEO, underscored the significance of supporting the Stax Museum as a way to honor the rich legacy of Memphis music.
B.B. King’s Legacy
B.B. King, born as Riley King, made the pivotal move to Memphis in 1946 to pursue his passion for music. Aligned with the musical tradition of the city, he was helped by his cousin, fellow blues artist Booker White, who assisted him in securing a job at Newberry Tanks. King briefly worked there before fully dedicating himself to a flourishing music career that would ultimately establish him as one of the most influential blues musicians of all time.
The Stax Museum of American Soul Music is known for its dedication to preserving and showcasing the cultural impact of soul music, making it an apt venue for this commemorative exhibit. As B.B. King’s contributions to the genre are celebrated, this exhibit represents not only a nostalgic reflection on his work but also a tribute to the impact of blues music in shaping Memphis’s identity.
Event Details Summary
- Exhibit Name: B.B. King in Memphis
- Opening Date: July 24, 2025
- Public Display Dates: July 25 โ October 19, 2025
- Location: Stax Museum of American Soul Music
- Opening Reception: Free, begins at 6 p.m.
- Registration Required: Yes, via Eventbrite
- Sponsor: Newberry Tanks
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the B.B. King in Memphis exhibit about?
The exhibit features never-before-seen photographs of B.B. King, particularly from his 1982 concert at the Mud Island Amphitheater, and aims to honor his legacy in Memphis music.
When does the exhibit open to the public?
The exhibit opens to the public on July 25, 2025, and will run through October 19, 2025.
Is there a cost to attend the opening reception?
No, the opening reception is free, but attendees must register in advance due to limited space.
Exhibit Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Exhibit Name | B.B. King in Memphis |
| Opening Date | July 24, 2025 |
| Public Display Dates | July 25 โ October 19, 2025 |
| Opening Reception Time | 6 p.m. on July 24, 2025 |
| Admission Fee | Free (registration required) |
| Sponsor | Newberry Tanks |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Memphis Gears Up for a Weekend of Arts and Culture
Memphis Celebrates B.B. King’s 100th Birthday with 100 Days of Blues
2025 City Guide Celebrates Soul of Memphis
Memphis Hosts a Weekend of Cultural Events
Explore the Rich History of The Withers Collection in Memphis
Memphis Gears Up for Transformative Changes in 2025
Memphis: A Melodic Exploration of Music, Art, and Culinary Delights in Tennessee
Additional Resources
- Action News 5
- Wikipedia: B.B. King
- Commercial Appeal
- Google Search: B.B. King Stax Museum exhibit
- Daily Memphian
- Encyclopedia Britannica: B.B. King
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
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