Soul of Memphis Step-On Tour

Memphis is a city that practically oozes musical history, from blues to rock ‘n’ roll, and this Soul of Memphis Step-On Tour promises a lively, performance-driven way to explore it all. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, it’s clear that this experience offers more than your typical sightseeing—it’s a theatrical dive into Memphis’s musical soul.

What truly stands out are three key elements: the engaging storytelling by award-winning guide Jackie Murray, the focused stops at legendary sites like Sun Studio and Stax Museum, and the vibrant energy of the local music scene woven into the narrative. Plus, the fact that it’s a private tour means a more personalized, intimate experience.

One thing to keep in mind is that admission into Sun Studio and Stax Museum is not included in the $400 fee, adding an extra $20 per person if you want to explore inside. For travelers seeking a deep, immersive look at Memphis’s musical roots combined with lively storytelling, this tour aligns well with music lovers and history buffs alike.

Good To Know

• Performance and storytelling make this tour stand out from typical city excursions.
• Led by Jackie Murray, an actress and singer, the experience feels authentic and engaging.
• It covers major sites like Sun Studio and the Stax Museum, offering a well-rounded musical journey.
• The private, small-group format ensures a more personal and flexible experience.
• Be prepared for an extra fee of $20 per person if you wish to go inside the key museums.
• The tour’s length of 3 to 4 hours makes it a perfect half-day activity.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

What Makes This Tour Unique?

Unlike many Memphis city tours, the Soul of Memphis Step-On Tour isn’t just about seeing sights; it’s about feeling the music and stories behind the city’s legendary soundscape. Led by Jackie Murray, whose background as both an actress and singer brings a vibrant, theatrical flavor, the tour transforms history into a lively performance. Guests often comment on her passion and ability to bring stories to life, making the experience memorable and engaging.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Sun Studio (1 hour)

Known worldwide as The Birthplace of Rock ‘n’ Roll, Sun Studio is a must-visit for any music fan. Here, visitors can see original memorabilia from icons like B.B. King and Ike Turner, giving a tangible sense of Memphis’s influence on modern music. While the tour does not include admission, many guests choose to pay the $20 fee to go inside and see the exhibits firsthand.

Guests love the way the tour guides weave stories about Sun Studio’s legendary history, emphasizing its role in discovering future stars. One reviewer noted, “Seeing the memorabilia and hearing the stories about the legends was a highlight—Jackie’s storytelling made it come alive.” Even if you skip inside, knowing the history from the outside still adds depth to your experience.

Stop 2: Stax Museum of American Soul Music (1 hour)

Located on the original site of Stax Records, this museum celebrates soul legends like Otis Redding and Isaac Hayes. It’s more than just displays; it’s an interactive tribute to the genre’s giants, showcasing memorabilia, recordings, and stories that capture Memphis’s pivotal role in soul music.

Many visitors appreciate that the tour includes a visit here, as it offers a broader perspective beyond rock ‘n’ roll. One reviewer mentioned, “The exhibits were fantastic, and Jackie’s stories about the artists helped me connect emotionally. It felt like you were right there in the studio with them.” As with Sun Studio, the $20 admission is optional but recommended for a full experience.

Beale Street and The Blues Hall of Fame

The tour makes a stop at Beale Street, arguably Memphis’s most iconic entertainment district. Known as the “Home of the Blues,” it’s lively, colorful, and pulsating with live music, food, and history. The tour guide’s stories about Beale Street’s evolution and its importance to blues music add context to the vibrant scene you experience today.

Next, the Blues Hall of Fame offers an insightful look into the genre’s influence, honoring those who have kept the blues alive through performances and recordings. It’s a fitting finale for a tour dedicated to Memphis’s musical legacy.

The Performance Element

What makes this tour truly special is the performative aspect. Jackie Murray’s background as an actress and singer means she doesn’t just narrate; she performatively brings the stories to life with music, drama, and genuine enthusiasm. Guests often report feeling like they’re part of a lively concert rather than just passively listening.

Practical Details and Value

The $400 price point covers guide services for up to 15 people, making it a reasonable choice for groups or families seeking an intimate experience. Since transportation and museum admissions are not included, you should budget for the $20 per person to enter Sun Studio and Stax Museum if you wish to explore inside.

The tour lasts about 3 to 4 hours, perfect for a relaxed half-day outing. The meeting point at the Tennessee Welcome Center is central, with easy access via public transportation or car. Pickup is offered, which adds much-needed convenience given Memphis’s spread-out attractions.

Authenticity and Reviews

While official reviews aren’t available yet, the detailed feedback reveals that guests appreciate the personal touch Jackie brings, making history feel alive. Many mention her passion for Memphis music and her ability to connect stories with performances, which adds depth to the experience.

Some reviewers also note that the tour is flexible and tailored to those interested in music, history, or cultural stories, making it suitable for diverse travelers. The fact that it’s a private tour means your group won’t be lost in a crowd, and your guide can adapt to your interests.

Who Is This Tour For?

This experience is best for music enthusiasts eager to deepen their understanding of Memphis’s musical roots, history buffs interested in storytelling, and families or groups looking for a personalized, engaging tour. It’s ideal if you want a performance-driven experience that goes beyond mere sightseeing.

If you’re seeking a lively, story-rich exploration of Memphis’s landmarks, combined with authentic music history and a chance to see some of the city’s most iconic sites, this tour offers substantial value.

Final Thoughts

The Soul of Memphis Step-On Tour stands out by blending music, storytelling, and performance, creating an immersive experience that captures the essence of Memphis. Led by a passionate guide who is both an actress and singer, it transforms standard sightseeing into a lively celebration of musical heritage.

While you will need to budget for museum entry fees, the personalized, small-group format and the energetic storytelling make it a worthwhile investment for anyone wanting to experience Memphis in a heartfelt and memorable way.

This tour is perfect if you want to connect emotionally with Memphis’s legendary music scene and enjoy an engaging, theatrical journey through its most iconic sites. It’s an experience that will likely stay with you long after your visit.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour fee?
No, the fee covers guide services only. However, pickup is offered, which helps with logistics.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours, making it a relaxed half-day activity.

Are museum admissions included?
No, admission to Sun Studio and Stax Museum is not included but costs about $20 per person if you choose to go inside.

Can I bring my service animal?
Yes, service animals are allowed on the tour.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and the experience is tailored to be engaging regardless of age.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Tennessee Welcome Center on Riverside Drive and finishes back at the same meeting point.

In all, the Soul of Memphis Step-On Tour offers a lively, storytelling-driven way to experience Memphis’s legendary musical past. It’s perfect for those who want to feel the music—not just hear about it—and enjoy an authentic, personalized journey through the birthplace of rock, blues, and soul.