SHELBY COUNTY, Tenn — Memphis in May is soon to kick off, ushering in a celebration of food, music and everything the Bluff City has to offer. But for the first time in almost fifty years, the classic Beale Street Music Festival won’t be back, instead in its place there will be something new.
“I go every year to the music fest down on Beale Street, and I heard they made it nicer now to fix it up, so it should be nice,” said Memphian Alfred Marshall. “We plan to go on Friday and Saturday. (We) already had tickets, but they changed the name of it to - what was it again? Riverbeat Fest?”
Citing high costs and dwindling attendance, the Memphis in May organization announced they were pressing pause on the Beale Festival. In its place instead is the Riverbeat Music Festival, put on by Mempho Presents, a private company.
“Well, it’s different. You normally would have the Beale Street Music Fest, but we’re focusing on producing the world championship barbeque cooking content again and making it the best one the city has ever seen. it's the biggest party,” said Randy Blevins, V.P. of Marketing for Memphis in May.
Ticket prices for the revamped music festival have increased significantly compared to previous years. In 2023, a three day pass could be had for as low as 165 dollars. This year, a three day general admission ticket goes for $250 apiece, and a VIP pass all the way up to $1000 dollars.
The number of artists performing has dipped as well, from 62 at the last Beale Street Music Fest to 45 listed on the Riverbeat poster.
Memphis in May has long been much more than just a single event with community engagement around the world to bring shine to the Bluff City.
“If you’re not from Memphis, it’s one one of the first things you’ve got to do. Make sure you attend Memphis in May. You've got barbecue, you’ve got Elvis, you’ve got our music. The next part is naturally, ‘What goes on in your city?’ Well, Memphis in May has been part of that for generations, really,” Blevins said.
Memphis in May says all options are on the table when it comes to bringing the Beale Street Music Festival back next year and beyond. They’ll hope to make a decision on that this summer.