This September, Memphis will sing the blues in the most joyful way possible: by celebrating the 100th birthday of B.B. King. Born September 16, 1925, his music transcended genres, inspiring generations and putting Memphis on the map as a global music capital. Today, B.B. King’s legendary voice, spirit, and influence still reverberate through the city’s streets.
From outdoor performances to a limited-time museum exhibit, here are some of the biggest ways Memphis is paying homage to the legendary musician during 100 Days of Blues.
Through October 19, 2025: B.B. King in Memphis
More Info: staxmuseum.org
If you haven’t been to the Stax Museum to see the new exhibit, B.B. King in Memphis, consider this your sign to do so. From never-before-seen photos to a custom-curated jukebox and an autographed Gibson Lucille guitar, this is an interactive experience you don’t want to miss. Open since July and running through October 19, admission is $20 for adults and $16 for children (ages 7-12). Individuals ages seven and younger are free.
September 2, 9 & 16, 2025: Blues Tuesdays Backstage Experience
More Info: overtonparkshell.org
Leading up to B.B. King’s birthday (and taking place on his official birthday!), you’re invited to go behind the scenes of the legendary Overton Park Shell. This historic venue has hosted hundreds of legendary blues acts and was also the home of the Memphis Country Blues Festival in the late 1960s.
Hosting everyone from Albert King (a musician and close friend of B.B. King) to ZZ Top and Gary Clark Jr., this backstage tour invites you to stand in the same spot as countless musical pioneers. Tours are available at 11 a.m., 2 p.m., and 4 p.m. Admission is $16.
September 14 & 16, 2025: B.B. King’s Blues Club Birthday Bash
More Info: bbkings.com
Festivities at B.B. King’s Blues Club kick off on Sunday, September 14, with a free, family-friendly festival along Beale Street. Attendees can listen to live performances from DJ Stan Bell, Stax Music Academy, Grizzline, Corey Lou & DaVillage Band, Beale Street Flippers, Rodd Bland & Friends, and Whitehaven High School — all hosted by Kontji Anthony and DJ Stan Bell.
Then, on Tuesday, September 16 — the day B.B. King would have turned 100 — the celebration continues inside the club for an unforgettable, ticketed, all-star concert. The lineup includes everyone from Bobby Rush to Boo Mitchell, Carla Thomas & Hi Rhythm, D.K. Harrell, Shirley King & the B.B. King All-Star Legends, plus a jam session from the B.B. King’s All Stars.
September 15, 2025: Blues Night at Char
More Info: memphistravel.com
In honor of 100 Days of Blues, Char’s resident pianist Audie Smith performs blues-inspired songs every Monday night through September 15. Music runs from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. and can be paired with standout entrées like shrimp and grits, seafood carbonara, and pan-seared Atlantic salmon. Reservations are available via OpenTable.
BONUS: Visit the “St. Blues Guitar” Mural
If you can’t make it to any of the official celebrations, stop by the Edge District’s St. Blues Guitar Workshop to take a photo with the iconic “St. Blues Guitar” mural. Created by artist Brandon Marshall, the mural depicts a St. Blues original guitar, which was played by B.B. King himself.
Memphis is pulling out all the stops to honor B.B. King’s centennial. However you choose to celebrate, it’s the perfect time to experience the blues in the city where the King made his mark. To see the complete lineup of 100 Days of Blues events, visit memphistravel.com.
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