Our journey from Nashville to Memphis was via an 8 seater Seaport plane. We were both a little apprehensive but reassured by a lovely English exchange student. The plane flew 'quite' smoothly to Jackson at 8000 feet before taking off again to Memphis at 4000 feet. The weather ensured the ride wasn't too turbulent and that the view was 'awesome'!
Memphis was not as clean as Nashville and the high police presence was both reassuring and worrying. Fortunately we never experienced any crime, although Dad was regularly begged for a dollar or a fag! Beale Street was a short walk from our hotel and lined with music bars. There were a few good bars with rock n roll but mostly Blues was the king. The open air stage in the park was a pleasant place to soak up the sun and enjoy the band while sipping a beer.
Next to our hotel is Thr Peabody hotel. A luxurious hotel that had welcomed many musical stars over the years. But it is also home to the famous Peabody Ducks. At 11am they exit the lift and waddle along the red carpet into the lobby fountAin. Then at 5pm they repeat this journey up to their palace on the roof.
We took a tour of the Gibson factory which was really interesting but would've been improved if we could hear/understand the guide! Photos and videos were not permitted due to security but samples of each stage were passed around. Just wish I couldn't taken a completed 'sample' home for my boys....
Next in the itinerary was a trip to the home of the King. Graceland was both interesting and moving. Elvis's home was not huge but lavishly decorated. To be and see where he sang for the last time was emotional, as was his family grave site. However, his planes were amazing, especially Lisa Marie. This was a very opulent and luxurious way for him to travel to his concerts. And to take his beloved daughter to Colarado for a short play in the snow! The beds had regulation seatbelts and all the belt buckles were played in 45k gold.
Back onto the shuttle bus as we make our way to the legendary Sun Studios. The tour is not organised well and there is a lot of hanging around before we actually get to see the exhibitions and the actual recording room. Our guide is knowledgeable and entertaining. It is just a shame that the group is so large and we were anxious not to miss our bus back. I did however get to hold the microphone used by so many stars, including the King himself.