The Memphis Chapter serves Recording Academy members and music communities across the region stretching from Memphis and the Mid-South throughout Louisiana, Mississippi, Arkansas, and Missouri. This wide-ranging area encompasses the deepest roots of American music and the birthplaces of blues, jazz, ragtime, R&B, Cajun, zydeco, and rock & roll. The Chapter was founded in 1973, when the Memphis Sound was one of popular music’s top brands thanks to local greats such as Al Green, Isaac Hayes, Ann Peebles, and Elvis Presley. Also at that time, Louisiana was experiencing a major cultural revival spearheaded by the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, and Jackson, Mississippi was a thriving recording scene for rhythm & blues and Southern gospel music.
In this part of the country, music isn’t simply art or industry — it’s a way of life, and has been for generations. There’s a vibrant history here that draws musicians and fans from across the globe. And while the Memphis Chapter pays tribute to that rich heritage, our focus is on the future and creating programs and educational opportunities that keep pace with today's ever-changing entertainment environment.
The music that inspired the founding of the Chapter continues to inspire new generations. Thankfully, many of those legends are still with us and still making their mark including GRAMMY winners Al Green, Booker T. Jones, Irma Thomas, Dee Dee Bridgewater and Bobby Rush. Our region continues to spur the next generation of top music makers, including recent GRAMMY winners and nominees Terrance Simien, PJ Morton, North Mississippi Allstars, Trombone Shorty, Southern Avenue, Sean Ardoin, Jekalyn Carr, Christone “Kingfish” Ingram and Tank & The Bangas.
Please take a few minutes and explore not only what the Memphis Chapter is doing, but what all the Chapters have to offer in the way of professional development and opportunities for our members.
Senior Executive Director: Jon Hornyak
President: Carl Nappa
The Recording Academy
Memphis Chapter
1910 Madison Ave., #536
Memphis, TN 38104
Ph: 901.525.1340
[email protected]