Exploring a Historic Rock ‘n’ Roll Site in Memphis

Meeting a friend in the lobby of the renowned Peabody Hotel in Memphis, I was intrigued when he mentioned seeing the ducks and having dinner. Little did I know what I was in for. Upon returning to the lobby later on, I noticed a long red carpet unrolled in front of the elevator, with velvet ropes and a growing crowd around it. My friend’s mysterious smile only added to my curiosity.

At precisely 5 o’clock, the spectacle began. Five North American mallard ducks emerged from a fountain, walked in line towards the elevator, and boarded it amidst a flurry of applause and laughter from the spectators. This lavish ritual, I soon learned, was a famous Memphis tradition where the ducks were headed to their rooftop coop for the night, then returning the next day for a leisurely swim in the fountain.

The next morning, we embarked on a trip to Sun Studio, a revered site that hosted legendary rock ‘n’ roll recording sessions. 706 Union Avenue stood as a testament to musical history, where Elvis Presley’s iconic recording of “That’s All Right” marked the birth of rock ‘n’ roll. Inside the intimate studio, we marveled at the original microphone used by Elvis and the playing card Johnny Cash inserted into the strings of his guitar to create the unique rhythm on “I Walk The Line.”

During our visit, we delved into stories and anecdotes about music icons like Elvis, Cash, Howlin’ Wolf, B.B. King, Carl Perkins, and Roy Orbison, all of whom found their musical voice within the walls of Sun Studio. It was a humbling and almost spiritual experience to be in the presence of such musical greatness.

Sun Studio’s inclusion in the “Must-Do South” feature of this month’s issue highlights its significance as a must-visit destination in the Southeast. The studio’s rich history and profound impact on the music industry are a testament to the enduring legacy of rock ‘n’ roll.

As our day unfolded with visits to iconic Memphis landmarks, I reflected on the profound impact of these experiences. The red-carpet treatment for ducks at the Peabody Hotel and the historic significance of Sun Studio underscored the unique blend of tradition and creativity that defines Memphis as a cultural hub. Whether observing whimsical traditions or delving into the musical roots of rock ‘n’ roll, Memphis has a way of captivating the imagination and leaving a lasting impression on all who visit.