Stax Museum of American Soul Music

Local history museum · Annesdale-Snowden

Stax Museum of American Soul Music

Local history museum · Annesdale-Snowden

3

926 E McLemore Ave, Memphis, TN 38106

Photos

Stax Museum of American Soul Music by null
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by Allison (Atlas Obscura User)
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by paulruta (Atlas Obscura User)
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by paulruta (Atlas Obscura User)
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by Allison (Atlas Obscura User)
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by paulruta (Atlas Obscura User)
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by Allison (Atlas Obscura User)
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by paulruta (Atlas Obscura User)
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by Allison (Atlas Obscura User)
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by Allison (Atlas Obscura User)
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by Allison (Atlas Obscura User)
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by Allison (Atlas Obscura User)
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by Allison (Atlas Obscura User)
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by Mr. Littlehand/Flickr (Creative Commons)
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by paulruta (Atlas Obscura User)
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by Mr. Littlehand/Flickr (Creative Commons)
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by Brewdiggy (Atlas Obscura User)
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by Brewdiggy (Atlas Obscura User)
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by paulruta (Atlas Obscura User)
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by null
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by null
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by null
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by null
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by null
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by null
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by null
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by null
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by null
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by null
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by null
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by null
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by null
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by null
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by null
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by null
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by null
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by null
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by null
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by null
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by null
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by null
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by null
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by null
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by null
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by null
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by null
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by null
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by null
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by null
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by null
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by null
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by null
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by null
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by null
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by null
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by null
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by null
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by null
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by null
Stax Museum of American Soul Music by null

Highlights

The Stax Museum in Memphis celebrates the rich legacy of soul music with iconic exhibits like Isaac Hayes' gold Cadillac and the original Stax recording studio.  

Placeholder
Placeholder

926 E McLemore Ave, Memphis, TN 38106 Get directions

staxmuseum.org
@staxmuseum

Information

Static Map

926 E McLemore Ave, Memphis, TN 38106 Get directions

+1 901 261 6338
staxmuseum.org
@staxmuseum
𝕏
@staxmemphis

Features

wifi

Last updated

Aug 2, 2025

Powered By

You might also like

Terms of Use • Privacy Policy • Cookie Policy
 © 2025 Postcard Technologies, Inc.
@atlasobscura

35 Places to Celebrate Black Musicians and How They Changed the World

"Stax Museum of American Soul Music celebrates the music greats of the genre in its Memphis home, but the place of honor is given to one great ride. Positioned on a rotating stage in the museum is the gold-plated Cadillac owned by Isaac Hayes. Built especially for the soul singer-songwriter in 1972 as part of a contract negotiation, it has a fur-lined interior, television, refrigerated bar, and 24-karat gold detailing on the exterior — including gold windshield wipers. But before you think it must have been an ostentatious showpiece and never hit the streets, you are wrong. Hayes took pride in cruising Memphis in the tricked out Cadillac Eldorado. As he worked as both a record producer and an in-house songwriter at Stax, which was then a record label in the former theater on McLemore Avenue, it may have even visited the current museum. Unfortunately, Hayes went bankrupt and lost the car. Stax itself shut down in 1976, although it left behind an influential legacy in music recording with artists like Otis Redding and Albert King. However, when the building reopened as a museum in 2003, Stax and the Hayes Cadillac were reunited. The museum also includes a fantastic array of soul music artifacts, from a 1906 Mississippi delta gospel church preserved in its entirety to the dance floor from Soul Train." - ATLAS_OBSCURA

https://www.atlasobscura.com/lists/black-musicians
View Postcard for Stax Museum of American Soul Music
@atlasobscura

A Cross-Country Car Excursion

"Stax Museum of American Soul Music celebrates the music greats of the genre in its Memphis home, but the place of honor is given to one great ride. Positioned on a rotating stage in the museum is the gold-plated Cadillac owned by Isaac Hayes. Built especially for the soul singer-songwriter in 1972 as part of a contract negotiation, it has a fur-lined interior, television, refrigerated bar, and 24-karat gold detailing on the exterior — including gold windshield wipers. But before you think it must have been an ostentatious showpiece and never hit the streets, you are wrong. Hayes took pride in cruising Memphis in the tricked out Cadillac Eldorado. As he worked as both a record producer and an in-house songwriter at Stax, which was then a record label in the former theater on McLemore Avenue, it may have even visited the current museum. Unfortunately, Hayes went bankrupt and lost the car. Stax itself shut down in 1976, although it left behind an influential legacy in music recording with artists like Otis Redding and Albert King. However, when the building reopened as a museum in 2003, Stax and the Hayes Cadillac were reunited. The museum also includes a fantastic array of soul music artifacts, from a 1906 Mississippi delta gospel church preserved in its entirety to the dance floor from Soul Train." - ATLAS_OBSCURA

https://www.atlasobscura.com/lists/american-car-tour
View Postcard for Stax Museum of American Soul Music
@travelleisure

A Closer Look at 4 New U.S. Civil Rights Trail Sites — Plus How to Plan Your Visit

"In Memphis, the Stax Museum of American Soul Music showcases the record label’s hit-making legacy and features stars like Otis Redding, Carla Thomas, and Booker T. and the MGs. The museum is located on the original site of the Stax Records studio." - Travel + Leisure Editors

https://www.travelandleisure.com/new-us-civil-rights-trail-sites-how-to-visit-6544698
View Postcard for Stax Museum of American Soul Music

Raymond Sweet

Google
This place is nice. This place is huge. This place is comprehensive. This place is overwhelming. The Gift shop clerk needs some customer service skills. Also, gift shop prices are high, yes I'm cheap, yes I'm broke and yes I bought 3 things clock yo maw. Anyways-- go and you'll be very inspired, informed and inundated with tons of information not just about Stax, but those influenced by Stax artists.

Jennifer Dungey

Google
This was a great museum to visit in Memphis! The security guard was the nicest gentlemen ever. We showed up right before close and he encouraged us to come back the next day but let us look at the gift shop for a bit. I learned quite a bit and overall truly enjoyed it.

Norman TinMan Robinson

Google
The Stax Museum was pretty damn cool. I wish I could have toured it with my late Father & Late Grandfather to gauge their reactions to everything in the museum. I definitely bought a few pieces of merchandise from the gift shop for my family & myself. The fitted cap is on point! Dope Logo as well.

Atarah Rumph

Google
Thoroughly enjoyed my visit to this museum 😊 Thanks to a work trip, I was in Memphis and made a point to seek out black history. I saw the documentary on Wattstax a couple of years ago, but didn't put two and two together until going through the museum. Great, informational video and self guided tour throughout. There was so much to look at and take it- pics are allowed!!! I'm coming back for the Wattstax jersey 👍🏽

The K Green Show

Google
4.5 stars Stax Museum in Memphis is a pretty cool ride. The up front staff were great and very knowledgeable. The first video kicks it off nicely and then you have the self guided walking tour. Some exhibits were not at 100% but I was pleased over all with the display of history that was made at Stax. Lots of paraphernalia to look at, including Isaac Hayes' Cadillac!

Tracey Bee

Google
Wonderful museum. Worth the every fee of about $22. There's so much to see far more than you realise! Great exhibits showing a lot of important musical history

Frednando Bothwell

Google
Love the staxs story and the music that came with it. From start to finish the experience was a fun ride filled with great music and memories. Nice people greeting you at the door. Short movie to start off tour. Clothes,pics,music and exhibits to enjoy.

Angelica Lenay Parker Snowden

Google
The Stax Museum of American Soul Music was such a cool and meaningful experience. The history shared throughout the museum is super informative, and the amount of artifacts they’ve kept is seriously impressive. From instruments and costumes to vintage photos and recording equipment, it really brings the Stax story to life. One of my favorite parts was the Hall of Records—it shows all 300+ records made during Stax’s reign, and it’s so powerful to see just how much music came out of that place. The music playing throughout the museum brought back so many memories. It felt nostalgic in the best way—like being a kid again listening to the music our parents introduced us to. Whether you’re a soul music fan or just love music history in general, this museum is 100% worth a visit.
google avatar

Anastasia R.

Yelp
PLEASE visit the Stax Museum when you're up the Memphis way. It is a sight to see. It is so worth it. If every trip I do, it's a must to have a cultural experience no matter what. I hope anyone reading this takes that same initiative.
google avatar

Racquel S.

Yelp
I loved this museum. Memphis is steeped in history and this museum highlights that. I enjoyed the size of the museum and the pace you can traverse through it. It took me about an hour to get through everything and read all the plaques I wanted to read. Everyone who wants to visit will enjoy this museum and musically inclined folks especially will. Staff was kind. A treat overall.
google avatar

Kirsten J.

Yelp
The Stax Museum of American Soul Music is a gem. It captures the spirit and struggles of soul music so powerfully, and it gives credit to the often-unsung heroes behind the sound. From Otis Redding to Booker T. & the MG's, the stories and recordings there are incredibly moving. That restored recording studio and the recreated church exhibit are especially impactful and a must see when visiting Memphis.
google avatar

Charon R.

Yelp
Not only a museum but also a music school! Thoroughly enjoyed a look around and a great little gift shop for gifts!
google avatar

Terrance F.

Yelp
We enjoy this museum about Stax records. So much knowledge came from this museum tour. I love the fact that blacks and whites sing alone together. They didn't see color, just made good music. This tour had the Issac Hayes Cadillac, desk. We heard good music playing during the tour. It felt like we were actually there. We loved it!!
google avatar

Nikki F.

Yelp
We stayed in the downtown area, this museum was about 15 or so minutes away so we took an uber to get there. It's a nice museum with a lot of history. I think everyone should give it a visit. It's smaller than some of the other museums. I think my family spent an hour here. The price is reasonable. I think we paid less than $50 for 2 adults and 1 student ticket.
google avatar

Candie W.

Yelp
I danced my way right through Stax Museum, danced my way down the halls not skipping a beat..... I was surprised to find that Memphis was so museum heavy, but I realized Memphis was historic heavy. There is so much to see, touch, and feel.... Otis Redding was probably the biggest star, but Isaac Hayes was on full display here. He really was treated royally at Stax. I was excited to see Johnny Taylor, as well and learn Elvis recorded here. If you want to go on a musical journey, stop by....it was nostalgic seeing the church fans and the gospel influence on r&b, blues, funk, rock & roll = soul music (southern soul music). Also, the Lorraine Motel is in close proximity and because of segragation and the type of artists recording at Stax, the assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr. had an impact on Stax (there is information about the hotel and assassination here.
google avatar

Saunnie B.

Yelp
First off I was pretty happy to purchase tickets online in advance and pick a time slot. Upon arrival, we were greeted by a member of the staff and informed a short film was starting in just a few minutes. The film summarized the history of Stax and contributions of the artists on the music label. The museum felt like a walk through history balancing the news of the time, memorabilia and how Stax music artists like Sam and Dave, Otis Redding, Isaac Hayes, Ike & Tina Turner, Booker T and the MG's and Rufus Thomas & Carla Thomas' music helped us cope with the issues of the day and just relax to some good 'ol soul music. This museum is necessary for any music lover especially those that love soul music. I highly recommend a trip to Stax. I wished we had more time to listen to the live band.
google avatar

Michael M.

Yelp
We found it by accident when we asked a couple locals for their one thing to do in Memphis before moving far away and this was both of their answer... This pace is awesome and I had such a better time exploring this place than I did at Graceland. Music, culture, history... There were things to look at, listen to, and touch... Without a doubt a must see if you go to Memphis!
google avatar

Glenda B.

Yelp
When visiting Memphis, this museum is a must see! If you love music and especially are into music history, this is the place to just get all of the juice so to speak. Music would not be what it is today without Stax records. The number of artists that were born and developed through this company is astounding. I was born in 1968 so I can appreciate each and every song ever made because of the composers, musicians, singers and engineers that came from here. This museum is full of nostalgia. There are actual costumes, instruments, awards etc located here. This place is a gem. The movie in the beginning sets the tone for what is to come in the rest of this museum. It really was a good time. I loved it.

Angela S.

Yelp
Wonderful experience! So much history and soul. The history of the studio and artists was amazing. Must see if you come to Memphis!
google avatar

Ilene H.

Yelp
I can't say enough wonderful things about STAX. Stop by and really get a look at the music history in this area and come to appreciate the beginnings of some amazing artists. Make sure you spend some time with Richie. He is such a lovely man. We had a great time here!
google avatar

PJ C.

Yelp
Very interesting history and a well done museum. $15 admission was worth it. The 17 minute movie to start the tour was a great overview and a lot of fun. The exhibits were informative and easy to read though some material was repetitive. Issac Hayes' office and car were crazy. I never knew much of the Stax history though I certainly knew many of the acts. The broader history of soul music was well documented and represented. Park behind the building - it took us a few wrong turns to find the lot that is shared with the Soulville Charter School. Not sure you would want to park on the neighboring streets. Kudos to the group that built this museum it is a real gem.
google avatar

Elisa M.

Yelp
This is a walk down memory lane and gives you not just the history of how Stax Records began and sadly ended but also showcases lots of memorabilia from the numerous artist that once were signed to Stax Records. The tour starts off with a shirt video where you sit down and are given a preview of what Stax Records once was. From there you are on a self guided tour learning about the musicians, their music, the movement and sadly how the death of MLK impacted Stax. There is great history and lots of great things to be learned here. And don't forget to work your groove thang as you boogie down the soul train line!
google avatar

Jessica C.

Yelp
Worth a visit! You learn a lot about history and music. The video room was a great way to start out this museum. I liked the unique displays throughout.
google avatar

Adam L.

Yelp
The museum was amazing. It was so much bigger than it looked. It started out with an 11 minute movie. Then it was a self guided tour. We were there about 75 minutes in total. What an incredible collection of memorbilia.
google avatar

Daquanna R.

Yelp
What an amazing experience we had at this museum. I highly recommend adding this to places to visit to your list if you are in the area.
google avatar

Joan L.

Yelp
Pretty cool museum in Memphis that chronicles the history of Stax records. I enjoyed the short film that starts everyone's visit. The museum has a lot of memorabilia accompanied by a lot of verbiage. You can breeze through the museum or take your time. Would not say it's a must see, but it was a nice diversion when we had a couple of hours to spare in Memphis.
google avatar

Kyle B.

Yelp
I never heard of Stax before. I must have been under a rock. They've have many mainstream artist during their existence. You take a self guided tour. It was very informative. Learned that after the assassination of MLK, it produced a racial divide and distrust really lead to the downfall of the company. Not to mention when Sam Cooke died in a plane crash. It would be good to include in your bucket list to Memphis when you want a break from Beale St life and BBQ.
google avatar

Hunter S.

Yelp
As I began on my review of the Memphis Museum of Rock n Soul, there are several museums that are fairly similar or overlap in content matter and style. The Rock n Soul Museum and Stax are similar, but just different enough that both are worth your time. While the museum of Rock n Soul is more generalized, Stax is very in-depth about the Stax music company and its history/stars. While the museum of Rock n Soul peppers in a little Elvis and some early pioneers, while also discussing Stax artists like Isaac Hayes, the Stax museum tells a story. This museum starts with a film, which helps inform, summarize, and set the mood. Then you start with the first stars on the label and how the label was founded, and make your way through the label's history. You learn about lesser known, yet pivotal acts that influenced the entire music scene. You learn about the big acts, like Ike and Tina Turner and Isaac Hayes. There are two things I really loved: one is that this museum is in the actual studio and soundstage of Stax. There are actual artifacts, such as records and mixing boards and instruments from the building's use at that time. Secondly, I really loved how the museum integrated social justice and black rights into the mix. Stax wasn't just a music label--it was seen as progressive at the time. Black and white artists usually got along and collaborated, and eventually Stax had integrated ownership. And when the civil rights movement became prominent, it strained those relationships, especially as black artists and executives became part of the movement and began to speak up on civil rights. As compared to the museum of Rock n Soul, this museum gets deeper into issues I find interesting and important, rather than glossing over things. There is a lot, A LOT, of reading to accompany the music and videos. So much that after a while I chose to take some photos of some plaques to read later. But that doesn't take away from the experience. They also have rotating exhibits at the end of the main part of the museum. Plus, you get to see Isaac Hayes's 24 karat gold plated Cadillac! If you can do this, the rock n soul museum, and the blues hall of fame (which only takes a short amount of time, also reviewed separately), then see them all. If you have to choose one, do Stax.
google avatar

Craig W.

Yelp
Did you know Aretha Franklin was born in Memphis? She was and then her family moved when she was two. Yeah, I didn't know that, either. This is a terrific museum and it really goes far beyond the story of the Stax record label. You'll overload on music history, of course, but there is a lot of other history here, too. This is a self-guided museum so you stroll through the exhibits at your leisure. The front desk folks suggested most visitors spend about 1 hour to 90 minutes here. I'm thinking 2 hours is about right. There is an awful lot to read and enjoy. But it's not all reading. There are many displays with videos playing clips of various artists performing. There is also an amazing dance floor with Soul Train clips playing. Keep in mind that the museum does not solely focus on Stax artists. This is truly the history of soul music. Check out their outstanding website, too, if you are curious.
google avatar

Markiesa B.

Yelp
While visiting Memphis we wanted to at least go to the many museums they have so we ended up going to the Stax one. Where it's located looks a bit rough around the area but anyways we was greeted upon arrival then started the tour off by watching a introductory video in the theater room. Afterwards we walked the museum to see all the artists who was apart of Stax records. You probably need about 30-45 minutes to get through. I did learn some things so it was pretty cool. Best part was a gold Cadillac they had on display that one of the artist use to drive around, it was pretty decked out.

Timothy M.

Yelp
Traveling from Los Angeles this is a must stop every single time. Love the museum great staff, and totally woth the price of admission. Even if your not knowledgeable in the music area you can lean alot.
google avatar

Elizabeth L.

Yelp
Going to Stax was top on our list while visiting Memphis. I was so excited to share my love of soul music with my son. From the second you open your car door you are hit with the sweet sounds of Stax artists including the great Otis Redding. The self-guided tour starts with a video introducing the people, the sounds, and the vibe of Stax Records. Visit highlights include Issac Hayes' Cadillac, the recording equipment used for some of Otis Redding's songs, and the hall of the Stax record catalog. I enjoyed my overall experience but would've loved to have the feeling the video generated continue on throughout the visit. It might be cool to have audio guides by Stax artists or more hands on opportunities. Perhaps, a section to try out an instrument or mix your own song using prerecorded sounds. This slice of history is well worth the price of entry and deserves all the positive reviews it receives. The gift shop has great items. We got a few cups, pencils, a canvas bag, and of course a tambourine. Make sure to take a photo in front of the iconic Stax entrance before you leave.
google avatar

Ray F.

Yelp
I took my mom to the Stax Museum because she hinted many times on wanting to go. When we arrived I was impressed on how timeless and clean the grounds were. The staff was friendly and knowledgeable. The sights and sounds were amazing! My mom took a trip down memory lane. She was familiar with all the entertainers and locations mentioned in the exhibits. I recommend going to the Stax museum is you are a lover of history and music. If you have parents that are of the soul/disco era please take them so they have an opportunity to relive their "good old days"! You may even get to find out more about your parents during that time...I did!
google avatar

Andi M.

Yelp
What an awesome journey back in time. The stars that came out of Stax... WOW. How the Memphis sound came together. So happy that this museum here for all. Hope people come and bring their family. Keep supporting this space. Just watching the film on the history of Stax, one could see how they all were like family. Just vibing and creating. Another great treat there is the classic Gold Plated Custom Cadillac, that once belong to Issac Hayes. The superb details of this automobile is unbelievable. A must visit if in Memphis, TN.
google avatar

Tank G.

Yelp
This is a cool museum. I never knew about Stax Records until I visited here. Sadly they went bankrupt in 1976. They had some powerful talent too, including Issac Hayes, Otis Redding, The Staple Singers, Rufus and Carl and Dave. The museum does a great job chronicaling its history and featuring its artist through exhibits, displays and artifacts. Some non Stax talent is slipped into to the museum as well like Al Green, Stevie Wonder and Marvin Gay. You start your tour in a replica church and end your tour in a studio As you can tell by the pictures, the highlight of the museum is Issac Hayes's custom green Cadillac El Dorado and the Wall of Sound which showcase all albums released by the label. There is a free private parking lot in the back of the museum. The museum is very clean and well organized. We spent about an hour there. It was a good time and they are always changing their exhibits up a bit. definitely worth a visit.
google avatar

Brian B.

Yelp
Simply one of the best museums I have ever been to; definitely the greatest music museum in the world. As a child listening to music on a transistor radio in the 60's, I really didn't know what label produced the songs I liked best. It was only years later I learned that many if the best came from Stax in Memphis. This museum is a fitting tribute to the great artists - singers, songwriters, musicians and producers - who created soundtracks for the later decades of the last century. A moving and joyous tribute!! I will be coming back!! Highest recommendation!! (I left out a couple of important points in my original review above. 1. The Museum is not limited to Stax artists, it covers most r&b and soul artists of the period. Aretha, Ray, Ike & Tina and many more are in here! 2. The Gift Shop is phenomenal! Records, cds, dvds, shirts, bumper stickers and much more. Great prices on the music! Complete (or start) your collection. 3. The staff at the entry desk, in the gift shop, even the guards, are friendly and knowledgable - well, who wouldn't be happy being here?)
google avatar

Shamara B.

Yelp
This is such a nice museum. I enjoyed every bit of it. My favorite was Issac Hayes car. Definitely a must see museum while in Memphis.
google avatar

Natalie F.

Yelp
In Detroit, you have Mowtown's Hitsville. In Memphis, you have the less mainstream, more creative SOULSVILLE! All American music (Soul, Rhythm & Blues, Country, Rock N' Roll) stems from gospel music. Soul music has its roots in traditional African American gospel music and rhythm & blues (1940's) in both lyrical content and instrumentation - that began in the 1950s. Memphis birthed Soul music, if you want the real deal - come to Stax and get your boogie on. Stax Records Museum and Memphis has been on my list for ages, because Artists such as Isaac Hayes, Otis Redding, The Bar-Kays, Rufus, and Carla Thomas were Stax artists. Tickets to Stax are inexpensive for the wealth of an experience it provides. Before entering the museum, you watch a short film describing this period and how the record label started. Stax was said to be a diverse label where the musicians were from every background and color wasn't a concern. Making good music was the only goal, however with the assassination of MLK 11 years after opening its doors, and not too far from the studio, it changed the way people interreacted with each other and lines were drawn again. Friends yesterday, we're forced to be enemies tomorrow, and by 1975 Stax closed its doors for good. The gift shop at the end of the tour is good, in addition to T-shirts and memorabilia they have a small section of inexpensive records. Total time at the museum was about 2 hours. Free street parking outside. I loved the old recording equipment, personal letters, outfits/costumes, the WattStax flyers from Los Angeles, and of course Isaac Hayes' Cadillac.
google avatar

Teri T.

Yelp
Enjoyable experience, great displays, and of course excellent music. The Stax Museum kicks you off with a sit down movie setting the stage for what is to come. The rest of the museum is at your own pace, 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on your speed and how much you like read. High quality mix of visual displays, memorabilia, and videos depicting the history of Stax, soul music, and the Memphis sound. I didn't know much of this story prior to this visit and enjoyed learning its rich history and key players. Admission price is very reasonable. ~$15 and a high quality experience.

Walter A.

Yelp
The Soul of America is in her music! ! See, hear, feel and touch her rhythmic beat while enjoying this spot you!l not soon forget
google avatar

Ade B.

Yelp
This museum tells the story of the history of The Blues and Stax records, which boasted such stars as Otis Redding and Isaac Hayes. After an introductory video, you are on your own to explore the museum, which used to be the headquarters and recording studio of Stax Records. You actually get to stand in a real recording studio and picture yourself recording there. I also had no idea so many music stars came from Stax, most notably to me being Isaac Hayes. I was still a baby when Stax went bankrupt, but I knew Isaac Hayes from his movies like Escape from New York. I enjoyed getting a glimpse of his very successful music career at Stax, before he became a movie star or the voice of Chef in South Park. If you are a fan of blues music you definitely need to check out Stax museum. I learned a lot and enjoyed looking at the large collection of memorabilia of the record company's stars.
google avatar

Dani C.

Yelp
Stax Records (originally called Satellite) is known for its southern soul style of music, but it also released gospel, funk, and blues recordings. It was founded in 1957 by Jim Stewart and co-owned with his sister, Estelle Axton, and took its new name in 1961 from the first 2 letters of their last names. They had an "open door policy," giving anyone a chance to prove their musical ability. Some hit makers produced from Stax were Rufus and Carla Thomas, Booker T. & the MGs, Sam and Dave, Johnnie Taylor, Albert King, Otis Redding, Isaac Hayes (theme song of Shaft), the Staple Singers, and the Dramatics. In June 1977, a year-and-a-half after Stax went bankrupt, the company's masters were purchased by Fantasy, Inc. Stax was 2nd only to Motown in sales and influence. In 15 years, Stax placed more than 167 hit songs in the Top 100 on the pop charts, and a staggering 243 hits in the Top 100 R&B charts. In 2003, the Stax Museum of American Soul Music opened on the site of the original studio.
google avatar

Earl A.

Yelp
Brought a few friends to the Stax Museum and they loved it. The museum provides an in-depth look at the history of Stax Records and the artists who recorded there, and it does an excellent job of bringing the story to life through interactive exhibits, artifacts, and memorabilia. I particularly enjoyed the listening stations, where you could hear some of the classic soul tracks recorded at Stax, and the video displays that showed footage of the artists and the recording sessions. This is a great stop for tourists and I would recommend it to locals that have not been yet. Bring your dancing shoes.
google avatar

Cindy M.

Yelp
[1000] 9/12/2019 I'm so glad this is my 1000th review because this museum is AWESOME!!! Plenty of parking around back. We took an uber which was great. The place is awesome with so much history. We loved going thru the different sections and hearing all the wonderful sounds of music we grew up on... There are tons of costumes and pictures to see and stories to hear. I love the way the museum was organized as it was well thought out. Isaac Hayes car was pretty awesome. I can imagine him driving around in that car back in the day. Had to be an awesome sight. I would definitely visit again. If you are in the area then definitely visit. Staff is very friendly
google avatar

Gregg N.

Yelp
LOVED THIS PLACE! There was so much I didn't know... like Isaac Hayes was in STAX and his gold Caddy is in there! I just wished there were more STAX artist records in the gift shop. Would have probably gotten an Otis record. Sometimes I think, COVID protocols take away from museums right now. It looked like there were more interactive stations throughout the museum but they were inactive.
google avatar

Carly A.

Yelp
We loved seeing all the cool artifacts from American Soul music and hearing songs that have never gone old. It was a great experience for a small cost.
google avatar

Thor G.

Yelp
Why are you reading this when you could be immersed in the Stax experience? Seriously, stop reading and get over to East McLemore now. Okay, here's why. Not only is this the history of an under appreciated label, a soulful sound that oozes cool and a collection of artifacts that defined a generation but it is also a compelling story that parallels the Civil Rights Movement. This place deserves your attention. Go. I urge you to go. Learn the tales behind some of the greatest music ever produced.
google avatar

Dana S.

Yelp
Came along with my boyfriend when on vacation, and didn't think Id actually enjoy this part of the trip, but to my surprise it was pretty cool learning about the story of blues and Stax records. I learned so much about how Stax records helped the careers of singers like Otis Redding and Isaac Hayes, and some other artists. I never really listened to this kind of music but it was interesting to learn about. If I was a fan of this music, this place would be heaven to me, so the blues lover, would definitely love this museum. The exhibit was pretty cool and you could walk through and see a replica of how the studio used to look, walls were covered with records of the artists who came out of Stax and there was a car spinning around in a circle that was Isaac Hayes car. Everything was so well put together during the walk through tour and I especially liked the small store they had at the end of the museum to pick up cds. posters, magnets, etc to take home.
google avatar

Michelle S.

Yelp
This museum was better than expected. The tour was very informative and fun. I would definitely recommend.
google avatar

Mike W.

Yelp
Super fun history lesson in soul music, but displays and tech definitely needs some updates. Staff were welcoming, though not super hands-on, which can be both a pro and a con.
google avatar

John H.

Yelp
This should be a required stop for any music fan visiting Memphis. Doesn't matter if you are goth, punk, or country Music lovers: soul is the heart of heart of music. If you are into learning about music history, Stax has an extensive artifact and history of how influential soul has been to our history, inside and outside of music. I loved seeing the. Control room, the mixing board, and the 8 tracks that are a big part of music history. The shop is awesome. We picked up shirts for the kids, and some stickers to give away when we get home. Must do in Soulville.
google avatar

Tonya J.

Yelp
We had a fantastic walk through music time at the STAX Museum of American Soul (recording studio). Got a video historical tour first and then was able to take our time to look through the many exhibits they had. So many great artists recorded their hits there; both local and those who made it big worldwide and the various Genres. Definitely worth the stop. Highly recommended!
google avatar

Wes U.

Yelp
This is one of the essential museums for Memphis Music history. With artists like the Bar Kays, Isaac Hayes, and Otis Redding it's full of history.
google avatar

Cindy P.

Yelp
Listen, I love Sun Records, but Stax beats it by far. The displays, the Soul Train room, the self guided tour, are just all super cool. I love this place.
google avatar

Lotti K.

Yelp
Loved this museum, a must-see if you're in Memphis! Give yourself at least two hours, as there's quite a bit to read and see. We found it engrossing and truly joyful.

Eric W.

Yelp
Awesome! They have done an amazing job with preserving the Stax legacy! A must see if you are in Memphis!
google avatar

Shane A.

Yelp
I actually expected a lot more for the money. The building itself is located in a shady neighborhood, security works the hallway to the entrance. Upon entering there is a gift shop to the right, which is also where you end up exiting. One could spend a few hours in there if you read "everything" but the majority of people will go through it in about 30 to 45 minuets. The studio did host a few well known performers, such as Tina, and Ike, Sam Cook, Isaac Hayes, and Richard Pryer, but the majority of the museum is filled with one hit wonders, and people known only in Memphis. While I appreciate the cultural importance of this studio, and the acts it supported. I feel it's not really worth the price, and could really use a few more artifacts.