The Sound & Soul of the South

In this episode, we explore the vibrant music scene in Memphis and the impactful work of Music Export Memphis, led by founder Elizabeth K-Wan. Kia Johnson shares her journey as a musician and actress, highlighting how Memphis' rich musical heritage continues to inspire and support artists today.

Special Guest
Elizabeth Cawein & Keia Johnson

Key Topics
Music Export Memphis's role in supporting artists
The impact of Memphis' music history on current scenes
International collaborations like Liverpool project
The ambassador program and artist support initiatives
The importance of local culture in artist development
Keia Johnson's journey as a musician and actress
Memphis' diverse music genres and scenes
The role of music in community and economic development

Chapters
00:21 Welcome to Memphis: A City Built on Music
02:17 Music Export Memphis: Sending Memphis Music Worldwide
03:44 Turning Memphis Musicians into Ambassadors
07:09 Why Elizabeth Cawein Built Music Export Memphis
11:37 Music as Economic Development & Destination Marketing
14:40 Beyond the Legends: Memphis Music Today
17:39 From Memphis to Liverpool & Building Artist Careers
21:45 72 Hours in Memphis: Elizabeth’s Must-Do List
24:34 Meet Memphis Singer & Actress Kia Johnson
32:01 The Moment Kia Knew Music Was Her Calling
39:42 Billie Holiday, International Stages & Finding Memphis
45:27 An Artist’s Perspective on Music Export Memphis
49:04 Kia’s Guide to Eating, Drinking & Hearing Memphis
52:35 Why Music Cities Should Take Notes from Memphis

Resources
Music Export Memphis — https://musicexportmemphis.org/
WYXR 91.7 FM – Straight from the Source — https://wyxr.org/programs/straight-from-the-source/
Memphis Travel — https://www.memphistravel.com/
Stax Museum of American Soul Music — https://staxmuseum.org/
National Civil Rights Museum — https://civilrightsmuseum.org/
Sun Studio — https://www.sunstudio.com/
Beale Street — https://www.memphistravel.com/beale-street
Bar DKDC — https://www.bardkdc.com/
Ghost River Brewing Co. — https://www.ghostriverbrewing.com/
B.B. King’s Blues Club Memphis — https://www.bbkings.com/memphis/

This episode is brought to you in partnership with Memphis Music Exports.  Order your free Memphis Map & Travel Guide today & start planning your visit!
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Creators and Guests

Producer
Charles Davis

What is The Sound & Soul of the South?

The Sound & Soul of the South spotlights destinations as they share the stories behind their community’s musical roots, legends, attractions, and vibrant live music scenes. Each episode explores how music shapes local identity, culture, and economic impact in destinations throughout the South—appealing to music fans and travelers seeking authentic, music-driven experiences.