Memphis is a city rich in history, music, and culture. Known for its soul food, blues, and historic landmarks, it has a unique charm that attracts people from all around. One of the most fun ways to celebrate this vibrant city is through trivia! Trivia Memphis is all about testing your knowledge of the city’s fascinating facts and stories. From its famous musicians to delicious dishes, there’s so much to learn and enjoy.
Today, we’ll share some interesting trivia about Memphis that will surprise you! Whether you’re a lifelong resident or just visiting, you’ll find fun facts that will make you appreciate this city even more. We’ll cover everything from the legendary Sun Studio and the powerful Civil Rights Movement to the mouthwatering barbecue that Memphis is famous for. Grab a drink, sit back, and get ready to impress your friends with some awesome Memphis trivia!
Trivia Memphis
Musical Legends of Memphis
1. Which famous singer is often referred to as the “King of Rock and Roll”? (Answer: Elvis Presley)
2. What legendary record label was founded in Memphis in 1952? (Answer: Stax Records)
3. Who is known for popularizing the blues in Memphis? (Answer: B.B. King)
4. What is the name of the iconic street in Memphis famous for its live music? (Answer: Beale Street)
5. Who was the first female to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame? (Answer: Aretha Franklin)
6. Which musician known for “Sittin’ on the Dock of the Bay” recorded in Memphis? (Answer: Otis Redding)
7. What genre of music is strongly associated with Memphis? (Answer: Blues)
8. Which famous recording studio in Memphis was known as the birthplace of rock and roll? (Answer: Sun Studio)
9. What band did drummer Al Jackson, Jr. play for that started in Memphis? (Answer: Booker T. & the MG’s)
10. Who was known as the “Queen of Soul” and recorded many songs in Memphis? (Answer: Aretha Franklin)
Delicious Bites in Memphis
1. What famous dish is Memphis known for? (Answer: Barbecue)
2. Which type of meat is often smoked in Memphis-style barbecue? (Answer: Pork)
3. What is a commonly used barbecue sauce style in Memphis? (Answer: Tomato-based)
4. What is Memphis-style barbecue ribs typically referred to as? (Answer: Baby back ribs)
5. What is a popular traditional side dish served with barbecue in Memphis? (Answer: Coleslaw)
6. Which dessert features a cream-based filling and is popular in Memphis? (Answer: Banana pudding)
7. What starchy vegetable is commonly featured in Southern meals? (Answer: Corn)
8. What unique Memphis dish features fried catfish? (Answer: Catfish po’boy)
9. What drink is often paired with Memphis barbecue? (Answer: Sweet tea)
10. What is the name of the famous Memphis-style sandwich featuring pulled pork? (Answer: Memphis BBQ sandwich)
Cultural Landmarks of Memphis
1. What famous mansion was once home to Elvis Presley? (Answer: Graceland)
2. Which museum in Memphis focuses on the history of civil rights? (Answer: National Civil Rights Museum)
3. What is the name of the historic bridge over the Mississippi River in Memphis? (Answer: Hernando de Soto Bridge)
4. What famous park lies along the Mississippi River in Memphis? (Answer: Tom Lee Park)
5. Which museum features artifacts from the Civil Rights Movement? (Answer: Stax Museum of American Soul Music)
6. What famous landmark was the site of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination? (Answer: Lorraine Motel)
7. What historic theater located in Memphis is known for showcasing live performances? (Answer: Orpheum Theatre)
8. What is the name of the park that hosts the Memphis in May festival? (Answer: Tom Lee Park)
9. What important civil rights event took place in Memphis in 1968? (Answer: Memphis Sanitation Workers Strike)
10. Which art museum is located near the University of Memphis? (Answer: Dixon Gallery and Gardens)
Memphis Sports Teams and Events
1. What is the name of the NBA team based in Memphis? (Answer: Memphis Grizzlies)
2. In which professional league does the Memphis Redbirds compete? (Answer: Minor League Baseball)
3. What is the name of the annual professional sporting event that takes place in Memphis? (Answer: World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest)
4. What sport do the Memphis Hustle play? (Answer: NBA G League basketball)
5. What auto race is a popular event held in Memphis? (Answer: Memphis Blues Festival)
6. Which college football team represents the University of Memphis? (Answer: Memphis Tigers)
7. What is the nickname of the Memphis Grizzlies? (Answer: Grizz)
8. Who is the famous former player that played for the Grizzlies and is now a sports commentator? (Answer: Chuck Hayes)
9. What is the home arena of the Memphis Grizzlies? (Answer: FedExForum)
10. Which sport is played at AutoZone Park in Memphis? (Answer: Baseball)
Historical Events That Shaped Memphis
1. In what year was Elvis Presley born? (Answer: 1935)
2. What landmark event took place in Memphis in 1968 regarding civil rights? (Answer: Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination)
3. What significant music event happened in Memphis during the 1950s? (Answer: Birth of Rock and Roll)
4. What year did the National Civil Rights Museum open in Memphis? (Answer: 1991)
5. Which innovative music style emerged from Memphis in the early 20th century? (Answer: Blues)
6. What major natural disaster impacted Memphis in 1937? (Answer: Mississippi River Flood)
7. When did the Stax Museum of American Soul Music open its doors? (Answer: 2003)
8. What important labor strike occurred in Memphis in 1968? (Answer: Sanitation Workers’ Strike)
9. How many miles is the Mississippi River that runs alongside Memphis? (Answer: 2,340 miles)
10. Who opened the first soul music record label in Memphis? (Answer: Jim Stewart)
Famous People from Memphis
1. Who was the famous soul singer born in Memphis and known for “Respect”? (Answer: Aretha Franklin)
2. Which Hollywood actor and musician hails from Memphis? (Answer: Morgan Freeman)
3. Name the famous blues singer who is often called the “King of Blues”. (Answer: B.B. King)
4. What notable figure in American literature was born in Memphis? (Answer: Tennessee Williams)
5. Who is the celebrated author known for “The Help” that grew up in Memphis? (Answer: Kathryn Stockett)
6. What famous television personality hails from Memphis? (Answer: Oprah Winfrey)
7. Which political figure known for civil rights advocacy is from Memphis? (Answer: Al Gore)
8. Who was the legendary guitarist known for his innovative blues techniques? (Answer: Johnny Winter)
9. What iconic band led by a famous guitarist recorded in Memphis? (Answer: The Kingsmen)
10. Name the Grammy-winning country music star from Memphis. (Answer: Justin Timberlake)
Memphis Festivals and Celebrations
1. What annual festival in Memphis celebrates BBQ? (Answer: World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest)
2. Which music festival celebrates soul music in Memphis? (Answer: Beale Street Music Festival)
3. What festival honors the music of Elvis in Memphis? (Answer: Elvis Week)
4. What is the name of the cultural event that happens every May in Memphis? (Answer: Memphis in May)
5. What event in Memphis celebrates the blues and local artists? (Answer: Memphis Blues Festival)
6. Which food festival celebrates the city’s best chefs and restaurants? (Answer: Taste of the South)
7. What festival highlights the contributions of African American culture in Memphis? (Answer: Afro-Centric Festival)
8. What arts festival showcases local musicians and visual artists in Memphis? (Answer: Memphis Arts Festival)
9. What festival is held annually to commemorate Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy in Memphis? (Answer: MLK Day Celebration)
10. What event celebrates the local craft beer scene every fall in Memphis? (Answer: Memphis Beer Festival)
Final Thoughts
Memphis is a fascinating city with a rich history, vibrant music scene, and delicious culinary offerings. From the legendary musicians who brought the blues to life to the iconic festivals that celebrate its culture, there is so much to explore and appreciate. We hope these trivia questions enhance your knowledge of Memphis, whether you are a resident or a visitor. Enjoy diving into the fascinating world of Memphis culture, history, and food, and don’t forget to check out more trivia on topics like Elvis trivia or further delve into Trivia Memphis!
Explore more trivia topics that spark your interest, and don’t miss our extensive collection at Elvis Trivia or dive deeper into Trivia Memphis for even more fun facts and knowledge!