Memphis, September 1, 2025
News Summary
The Memphis Power Pop Festival returns, featuring the long-awaited reunion performance of The Connells after 23 years. Set at Overton Park Shell, the festival celebrates Memphis’s vibrant power pop scene and the cultural significance of its musical heritage, including the induction of Big Star’s #1 Record and Eddie Floyd’s Knock on Wood into the Grammy Hall of Fame. Local musicians will also showcase their talents, continuing the cityโs legacy of musical innovation.
Memphis
The Memphis Power Pop Festival is set to return, featuring a highly anticipated reunion performance by The Connells, a notable power pop band, for the first time in 23 years. The festival is poised to bring together fans of the genre at the Overton Park Shell and celebrate the legacy of local music icons.
The Connells recently released their album โSteadmanโs Wakeโ in 2021, prior to the festival, marking their first significant presence in the music scene in over two decades. This year’s festival promises to highlight the resurgence of power pop music in Memphis, a genre that has significant roots in the city.
Additionally, the festival coincides with the induction of two notable recordings into the Grammy Hall of Fame: Big Star’s #1 Record and Eddie Floyd’s Knock on Wood. This recognition underscores Memphisโs rich tapestry of musical history and the cultural significance of its contributions to the music landscape.
Event Details and Performances
As fans gather for the Memphis Power Pop Festival, local musicians including Adam Yancey and Allen Couch of The Sonny Wilsons will prepare to take the stage together, showcasing the vibrant local music scene. The festival is more than just a performance; it is an engaging celebration of Memphisโs musical heritage and ongoing artistic expressions.
Jody Callahan, a journalist with over 25 years of experience reporting on Memphis, has highlighted the significance of this year’s festival, which aims to support and promote local talent while embracing the power pop genre that has defined a generation.
Cultural Significance of Grammy Inductions
The Grammy Hall of Fame classifies recordings that hold significant cultural and historical impact, and this yearโs inductees illustrate the profound influence of Memphis music. Big Star was known for its innovative sound characterized by shimmering guitars, heartfelt songwriting, and captivating harmonies. Despite its initial poor commercial performance and limited distribution when #1 Record was released in 1972, the album has gained recognition over the years for inspiring successful bands like R.E.M. and The Replacements, solidifying its place in rock history.
Eddie Floyd‘s “Knock on Wood“, co-written with Steve Cropper at Stax Records in 1966, achieved remarkable success as a number-one R&B hit. The song’s impact has been further solidified through various covers by established artists, ensuring its timelessness in musical heritage.
Memphisโs Ongoing Musical Legacy
Memphis has a robust representation in the Grammy Hall of Fame, with icons like Elvis Presley, Otis Redding, and Johnny Cash, cementing its status as a central hub for musical innovation. The city continues to foster new talent with nominations for emerging artists such as GloRilla and Justin Timberlake, and exemplifies its commitment to music education through individuals like Adriรกn L. Maclin, who was named Music Educator of the Year in 2025.
The Memphis Power Pop Festival is not just an event; it represents a broader local movement celebrating music culture, providing diverse educational and engaging experiences that honor and preserve the musical achievements that Memphis has given to the world.
Conclusion
The Memphis Power Pop Festival is an essential component of the cityโs musical narrative, rekindling the flames of power pop while bringing communities together to recognize the profound impact of local music history and innovation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Memphis Power Pop Festival?
The Memphis Power Pop Festival is an event celebrating power pop music, featuring performances from local bands, with this year’s highlight being the reunion of The Connells after 23 years.
When and where is the festival taking place?
The festival will take place at the Overton Park Shell in Memphis, although specific dates are not detailed in this news piece.
Which notable albums have been inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame?
This year, Big Star’s #1 Record and Eddie Floyd’s Knock on Wood have been inducted for their cultural and historical impact.
Why is The Connells’ performance significant?
This performance marks The Connells’ return to the Memphis stage after 23 years, making it a major event for fans of the genre.
What accolades have Memphis musicians received?
Memphis artists have received several accolades, including Grammy Hall of Fame honors, recognizing their influence in the music industry. Recent nominations like GloRilla and Justin Timberlake further highlight the city’s thriving music scene.
Festival Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Name | Memphis Power Pop Festival |
| Highlight Performance | The Connells’ Reunion |
| Location | Overton Park Shell |
| Notable Inductions | Big Star’s #1 Record and Eddie Floyd’s Knock on Wood |
| Year | 2021 Release of The Connells’ Album |
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Additional Resources
- The Daily Memphian: Memphis Power Pop Festival
- Commercial Appeal: Grammy Hall of Fame Inductions
- Choose 901: Big Star and Eddie Floyd Grammy Induction
- Google Search: Memphis Power Pop Festival
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Grammy Award
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.
