Pizano and Prince Mongo set to Jazz up Memphis
Marie Pizano and Robert “Prince Mongo” Hodges on their Grand Plan
Renowned Memphian Marie Pizano, in collaboration with eccentric local celebrity Robert “Prince Mongo” Hodges, is embarking on an ambitious plan to spark life back into Downtown Memphis. As an enterprising promoter of local projects intended to support culture and the community, Pizano announced her efforts to refurbish five Downtown properties set to be a hub of creative enterprises.
Regeneration of Downtown Memphis Properties
Pizano aims to infuse a shot of much-needed vitality to the interiors of five rundown properties that include 64 S. Front, 94 S. Front, 321 St. Paul, and 586 Hernando, with a substantial effort towards the rehabilitation of the private parking area at 88 S. Front.
Her grand vision includes the setup of a plethora of entities from a film school, music recording, a farmerโs market, a streaming network to radio broadcasts and a jazz club. In partnership with a drone company, she is also gearing up to establish wall of fame to honor famous local talents.
The Visionary Behind the Venture
Pizano, a tireless visionary with an inspirational self-published autobiography “From Barefoot to Stilettos”, has always aimed for magnanimity in her projects. Speaking about her experiences, Pizano said, “Iโm no stranger to getting something going and getting knocked down, but I feel like this time we have a chance.”
Prince Mongo’s Role
Robert โPrince Mongoโ Hodges, has entered a one-year agreement with Pizano. In his words, the goal is โto get these properties under her wing, so maybe she can raise some money in making them a real focal point in building a community, so theyโre not just sitting in limbo.โ
Hodges, who is quite the character in Memphis has had his fair share of attention through his unconventional dressing style and impulsive political campaigns. But, his endorsement of Pizano’s project gives it a significant swing, as he emphasises on the need for guiding young people.
The Press Conference
The Wednesday morning press conference was held inside the dark and musty interior of 94 S. Front, the location which is set to capture the limelight once Pizano’s plans set into motion. Attendees at the conference varied from school teachers, filmmakers and bankers to representatives of the Downtown Neighborhood Association and Greater Memphis Chamber.
Future of Memphis
Although the task ahead may seem herculean, Pizano’s determination and sanguine spirit seem unshakeable. The bold entrepreneur acknowledges the requirement of investment to fulfill her plans, but continues to encourage potential participants. “I’ve got a lot of verbal commitments. I really need the city to understand, we’re building something cool,” she said.
With the stern grit of Pizano and the flamboyance of Prince Mongo, Downtown Memphis might just get the “cool” transformation it has been missing.
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.
