Depending on when you’re reading this, let us wish you either a happy Halloween or a pleasant start to November. As expected, October was quite a month for Memphis music, and the last week alone has included both notable highs and lows for the local scene. We’ll kick things off on a notably sad note…
Rock n Roll Pioneer Jerry Lee Lewis Passes Away at 87
Alongside Sun Studios compatriots Elvis Presley, Carl Perkins, and Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis helped to usher in the rock n roll age during the 1950s with his signature unhinged piano-bashing style. Much like Little Richard and Chuck Berry, Lewis was known for his dangerous personae and musical chops, helping to define the “wild man” archetype for future rockers. Probably best remembered for hits such as “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On” and “Great Balls of Fire,” Lewis also lived a tumultuous personal life marred by scandal. Despite this, ‘The Killer” was a true original whose impact on popular music is still felt to this day. To learn more about his life, check out this obituary from the New York Times.
Memphis in May’s Future with Tom Lee Park in Precarious Position
For decades, the Memphis in May International Festival (which includes the Beale Street Music Festival) has been held in Tom Lee Park. But now it’s future with the riverside park may be in jeopardy. According to local reports, there is no contract in place for the Memphis in May festival to be held downtown this year after a massive renovation project to the park. We’re hopeful that all of the parties involved can come to an agreement, but is it possible the festival will have to find a new permanent home?
Duke Deuce Introduces ‘Deucifer’ Alter Ego Ahead of New Mixtape
In an interview with TMZ, crunk star Duke Deuce previewed his new mixtape “Memphis Massacre 3,”for which he says he summoned the power from his alter ego — a doll he’s dubbed “Deucifer” that apparently supplies all the dark energy used for the project. What more can you ask from a Halloween-time music story?
