Memphis’ global influence on music was on full display at the 68th Annual Grammy Awards as Lawrence “Boo” Mitchell and Eric Gales took home top honors for their work on the film Sinners.
Mitchell, owner and operator of the iconic Royal Studios in South Memphis, and fellow Memphian Gales were recognized with the Grammy Award for Best Compilation Soundtrack for Visual Media. Mitchell served as a music consultant on the film and produced several of its songs, while Gales contributed original guitar work to the soundtrack.
During the Grammy Awards Premiere Ceremony at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, both artists acknowledged the deep roots of the project in Southern and blues traditions. In remarks shared by The Commercial Appeal, Mitchell highlighted the collaboration behind the film, praising director Ryan Coogler and composer Ludwig Göransson for weaving blues history into a modern cinematic sound that honors the past while pushing the genre forward.
Gales also reflected on the significance of the moment, sharing his gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to the project and representing Memphis on an international stage, according to The Commercial Appeal.
Moments later, Sinners earned a second Grammy, winning Best Score Soundtrack for Visual Media, with Göransson accepting the award alongside Mitchell and Gales.
The wins underscore Memphis’ lasting impact on music across genres and generations — from historic studios like Royal to today’s biggest stages. As the city continues to shape the sound of the world, moments like this reaffirm that Memphis music doesn’t just live in history — it’s still making history.
