The Sound & Soul of the South, Ep#7: Memphis Music Export

In this episode, we explore the vibrant music scene in Memphis and the impactful work of Music Export Memphis, led by founder Elizabeth K-Wan. Kia Johnson shares her journey as a musician and actress, highlighting how Memphis' rich musical heritage continues to inspire and support artists today. Special Guest Elizabeth Cawein & Keia Johnson Key Topics Music Export Memphis's role in supporting artists The impact of Memphis' music history on current scenes International collaborations like Liverpool project The ambassador program and artist support initiatives The importance of local culture in artist development Keia Johnson's journey as a musician and actress Memphis' diverse music genres and scenes The role of music in community and economic development Chapters 00:21 Welcome to Memphis: A City Built on Music 02:17 Music Export Memphis: Sending Memphis Music Worldwide 03:44 Turning Memphis Musicians into Ambassadors 07:09 Why Elizabeth Cawein Built Music Export Memphis 11:37 Music as Economic Development & Destination Marketing 14:40 Beyond the Legends: Memphis Music Today 17:39 From Memphis to Liverpool & Building Artist Careers 21:45 72 Hours in Memphis: Elizabeth’s Must-Do List 24:34 Meet Memphis Singer & Actress Kia Johnson 32:01 The Moment Kia Knew Music Was Her Calling 39:42 Billie Holiday, International Stages & Finding Memphis 45:27 An Artist’s Perspective on Music Export Memphis 49:04 Kia’s Guide to Eating, Drinking & Hearing Memphis 52:35 Why Music Cities Should Take Notes from Memphis Resources Music Export Memphis — https://musicexportmemphis.org/ WYXR 91.7 FM – Straight from the Source — https://wyxr.org/programs/straight-from-the-source/ Memphis Travel — https://www.memphistravel.com/ Stax Museum of American Soul Music — https://staxmuseum.org/ National Civil Rights Museum — https://civilrightsmuseum.org/ Sun Studio — https://www.sunstudio.com/ Beale Street — https://www.memphistravel.com/beale-street Bar DKDC — https://www.bardkdc.com/ Ghost River Brewing Co. — https://www.ghostriverbrewing.com/ B.B. King’s Blues Club Memphis — https://www.bbkings.com/memphis/ This episode is brought to you in partnership with Memphis Music Exports.  Order your free Memphis Map & Travel Guide today & start planning your visit! ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★