After eating delicious deep-fried burgers at Dyer’s, we headed to Sun Studio for the Million Dollar Quartet Music Tour. I didn’t even realize there was a cafe, too, so we’ll check it out. There’s always room for some coffee.
I owned a beautiful Gretsch guitar once that looked just like this Bigsby. After a nice long look, it’s time to get inside.
The cafe was the first thing we encountered when we walked in through the front door. After getting our tickets torn, we waited for the next tour to start.
I injured my ankle a few days earlier, so it was impossible to head up the stairs at the start of the tour. I rejoined the group when everyone was in the main studio room.
Below, I’ve sprinkled those pictures and some I took outside among my Sun Studio history.
Sun Studio History
Sun Studio, the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll, is a recording studio in Memphis, Tennessee. Founded by Sam Phillips in 1950, the studio became famous for discovering and recording some of the biggest names in music history, such as Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Roy Orbison, and Carl Perkins.
Originally named the Memphis Recording Service, Sun Studio was a space where Phillips allowed local talent to record music. But it was more than just a recording studio. It was a crucible of creativity, a place where the elements of blues, gospel, and country music were blended to create a new, exciting sound that would change the music landscape forever.
One of the studio’s most iconic moments occurred in 1954 when a young Elvis Presley recorded “That’s All Right,” often cited as the first rock ‘n’ roll single. This recording launched Presley‘s career and solidified Sun Studio‘s place in music history.
Sun Studio‘s influence extended beyond Elvis, becoming a hub for pioneering rockabilly and blues artists. Johnny Cash, known for his deep voice and rebellious spirit, recorded many of his early hits at Sun, including “I Walk the Line.” With his energetic piano performances, Jerry Lee Lewis also rose to fame through recordings made at Sun Studio.
Despite its enormous influence, Sun Studio‘s parent company, Sun Records, sold Elvis‘ contract to RCA in 1955 for $35,000. This one sale allowed the studio to focus on nurturing other talents, cementing its legacy as a cradle of American music innovation.
Today, Sun Studio is not just a tourist attraction but a living testament to the power of music. It still operates as a recording studio, where the echoes of the past inspire future music. Its ongoing influence on musicians worldwide and its significance in the history of rock ‘n’ roll, blues, and country music makes it a must-visit location for music enthusiasts.
The Sun Studio Cafe
The Sun Studio Cafe has a limited snack menu with coffee and drinks. I sat on the Johnny Cash still while I enjoyed my cup of joe.
There is also a merch area located directly to the left of it. I left with a tote bag and a coffee mug.
One last look at the Sun Studio logo mural before getting in our cars to head back to our hotel.
While in Memphis, make sure to eat at the Dixie Queen, where Elvis famously liked to eat.
Sun Studio
706 Union Avenue
Memphis, TN
(901) 521-0664
Website – https://www.sunstudio.com
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/thelegendarysunstudio
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/memphisrecordingservice
Monday 10:00 am – 5:15 pm
Tuesday 10:00 am – 5:15 pm
Wednesday 10:00 am – 5:15 pm
Thursday 10:00 am – 5:15 pm
Friday 10:00 am – 5:15 pm
Saturday 10:00 am – 5:15 pm
Sunday 10:00 am – 5:15 pm