Discover the heartbeat of Memphis
Memphis is more than just a city—it’s a rhythm, a feeling, and a story told through its people and places. ‘Soul Lives Here’ celebrates the locally owned businesses that define Memphis—family-run restaurants, creative collectives, and cultural hubs that give the city its unmistakable character.
Every storefront has a story, every dish reflects tradition, and every performance sparks creativity. By supporting these businesses, you’re investing in the heart of Memphis. Discover the hidden gems, the local legends, and the soulful spirit that makes Memphis unforgettable.
Building Community Through Art: Inside Artifacts Gallery with Alivepaint
“Lately, I’ve been more focused on shining a light on others—on the people I admire and the creatives who inspire me. That’s how we grow as a community. It’s about more than just your own path—it’s about lifting each other up.”
“We have to be intentional about wanting to see each other succeed. That’s the spirit of Black Wall Street—people coming together, teaching one another, and building something greater than themselves. That kind of support still matters today.”
— Jamond Bullock, Owner of Artifacts Gallery
Founded by artist and curator @Alivepaint, Artifacts Gallery is a creative third space designed to amplify artists of all backgrounds and mediums. It’s a place where ideas are nurtured, talents are shared, and community comes first.
Paradox at Peco: Where Curiosity, Community, and Creativity Collide
Paradox at Peco was born from a shared vision between a mother and daughter—an idea sparked in 2021 and brought to life the following year. What started as a dream to create a unique gift shop quickly became something more: a space that reflects the soul of Midtown Memphis.
Rooted in creativity and curiosity, Paradox is a place where opposites attract. You’ll find everything from tarot decks to crystal glassware, bold jewelry to quirky home goods—each item intentionally chosen to surprise and delight. The name itself speaks to the range: a beautiful paradox of products, energy, and experience.
But more than what’s on the shelves, Paradox is about how the space makes you feel. It’s a place to pause, explore, and connect. A space where community is felt in every detail, and inspiration lives around every corner.
Located at the corner of Cooper and Peabody, Paradox is a long-held dream brought to life with love, vision, and a deep appreciation for Midtown’s creative spirit. Come in, get curious, and stay a while. We can’t wait to welcome you.
TappedIN 901: Telling Memphis Stories, One Connection at a Time
“TappedIn originated in December 28, 2022, as a creative space, media agency kind of deal. We highlight music, art and fashion of all facades. We put on a platform and curate an event around it. It’s kind of a melting pot. Memphis has a culture of its own that is outstanding, to where everywhere we go, they know, oh, you’re from Memphis. Bringing us together as one, and trying to unite us as much as possible, because we know we’re in Memphis and how it is and how it can get, but bypassing it.”
– Saint, Co-Founder, CEO
Founded in 2022, TappedIN 901 is all about uplifting the people and places that make Memphis shine. Born from a passion for connection and creativity, TappedIN is a platform dedicated to sharing real stories, building community, and celebrating the rich culture of the 901.
Through authentic storytelling and meaningful collaboration, TappedIN 901 highlights local voices and champions the businesses, artists, and changemakers shaping the city. Whether you’re looking to discover something new or deepen your love for Memphis, TappedIN is here to keep you plugged in.
Blue Suede Vintage: Where Style Has a Story and Sustainability Meets Soul
“I am always harping on secondhand fashion as a more sustainable choice. That has always been my motivator of this store. I say always shop second-hand before you buy something new. When you compare a nicely well-made vintage garment to something that is very similar and new, typically, the newer piece is going to be a lot more expensive, and it may not be as good in quality.”
– Casey O’Rourke, Founder and Owner
Blue Suede Vintage is where timeless style meets conscious living. From 1920s classics to early 2000s gems, we curate vintage clothing, accessories, and home goods with soul and story.
Our mission is simple: to help you shop with intention, express your individuality, and give new life to pieces from the past. Every item is handpicked with love—because great style never goes out of fashion.
Memphis Slim Collaboratory: Where Music, Community, and Culture Meet
“Memphis Slim Collaboratory seeks to be a space where art, music, culture, and collaboration collide. The namesake Memphis Slim was a legendary blues artist. That foundation directly ties into Memphis being known as the home of the blues, largely because of Memphis Slim and his work.”
Michael Cowan, President
More than just a creative hub, Memphis Slim Collaboratory is a space built for connection—where artists, musicians, and community come together under one roof. From accessible studio time to collaborative events and gallery-style gatherings, Slim House is designed to support and uplift Memphis creatives at every stage.
Whether it’s recording music, hosting sessions, or curating pop-up art experiences, every inch of this space is meant to inspire. The upstairs gallery serves as a flexible venue for artists to grow their audience and share their work in new, powerful ways.
What happens at Memphis Slim Collaboratory matters—not just to the artists who walk through the doors, but to the city’s creative economy as a whole. Memphis has shaped the sound of the world, and through Slim House, that legacy lives on.
The mission is clear: to educate, support, and inspire Memphis musicians, and to help spread the soul of Memphis music far beyond city limits.
Participating Businesses
Explore the Memphis businesses that define the city’s soulful spirit:
Celebrate the Soul of Memphis
Memphis thrives because of its people, places, and powerful stories. Now’s your chance to be part of that story.
🎵 Share your favorite Memphis memories.
🍴 Show love to local businesses.
📸 Post your moments and tag @wearememphistn with #SoulLivesHere.By joining the movement, you’re celebrating the heart and soul of our city—and helping to keep it thriving for generations to come. Let’s show the world why in Memphis, Soul Lives Here.