News Summary
Lamar Sorrento, a folk artist and musician in Memphis, blends vibrant music and authentic art. His unique style mixes Memphis R&B, blues, and country while promoting accessibility in his artwork. This self-taught creator has gained recognition, including a feature in Richard Linklater’s film ‘Boyhood.’ Sorrento embraces his genuine spirit, connecting with the community and inviting everyone to explore his creative world.
Memphis Folk Artist Lamar Sorrento Celebrates Authenticity Through Music and Painting
In the heart of Memphis, where the music flows like the mighty Mississippi, an extraordinary talent is making waves. Meet Lamar Sorrento, a folk artist, guitarist, and songwriter whose genuine spirit shines through every note he plays and every stroke he paints. Known to friends and fans as James Eddie Campbell, Sorrento is a true gem, channeling the soul of Memphis into his vibrant music and art.
A Portrait of Authenticity
On a sunny April day, Sorrento posed for a captivating portrait next to one of his colorful paintings at Elwood’s Shack, located at 4040 Park. Friends gather to celebrate his achievements, and it’s heartwarming to hear how he has fully embraced being his authentic self. In a world that often promotes faรงades, Sorrento stands out for his commitment to honesty and creativity.
A Musical Melting Pot
As a musician, Sorrento’s style is a delightful mix of Memphis R&B, Mississippi blues, Tennessee-flavored country, and good ol’ rock and roll. His latest album is a treasure trove, featuring tracks recorded at some of the most iconic studios in the city, including Sun Studio, Ardent Studios, and Easley Recording. Imagine kicking off your day with “Down This Road Again,” a track that brings a catchy Beatlesque rock vibe complete with the enchanting sound of sitar.
But that’s just the beginning! Listeners will also find treasures like โThe Universe Sent Me An Angel,โ โSausalito Girl,โ and an instrumental gem titled โHideaway,โ honoring the legendary Freddy King. Sorrento’s unique musical flair is marked by a whimsical sense of humor, steering clear of over-the-top glamour and choosing instead to offer genuine rock and roll that resonates with everyday folks.
A Painter with Passion
But Sorrento isn’t just a musical maestroโhe’s an incredible artist too! This talented soul is self-taught and began his artistic journey over 25 years ago, initially focused on painting portraits of musicians like the iconic Django Reinhardt. His work has caught the eye of some major rock stars, with notable musicians such as Keith Richards, Neil Young, and Lucinda Williams boasting pieces from his collection.
One of Sorrento’s significant accomplishments includes having his artwork featured in Richard Linklater‘s award-winning film “Boyhood,” bringing his creations to a wider audience. Prices for Sorrento’s art typically range from $150 to $200, a refreshing commitment to making art accessible for those who may be intimidated by traditional galleries.
Connecting with Community
Lamar Sorrentoโs journey is a masterclass in embracing authenticity while simultaneously connecting with the community. His ability to blend music and art embodies the spirit of Memphis and creates an engaging experience for those lucky enough to discover his work.
As he continues to create, Sorrento invites everyone to join in the conversation. Whether you’re a seasoned art lover, a dedicated music fan, or simply someone looking for a taste of something real, he welcomes you to explore his world. With his infectious spirit and genuine approach to artistry, Lamar Sorrento is not just making music or painting on a canvasโhe’s creating a heartfelt connection that resonates with the soul of Memphis.
So, if you ever find yourself wandering around Memphis, be sure to keep an eye out for this remarkable artist and his extraordinary work. There’s always something new to discover in the world of Lamar Sorrento, and itโs an adventure you donโt want to miss!
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Additional Resources
- Daily Memphian: Lamar Sorrento
- Memphis Flyer: Whole Foods Visit
- Memphis Magazine: The Living Museum
- Garden & Gun: Memphis Locals
- Vintage Guitar: Lamar Sorrento
- Wikipedia: Memphis
- Google Search: Lamar Sorrento
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Memphis, Tennessee
- Google Scholar: Lamar Sorrento
- Google News: Lamar Sorrento
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.
