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NPR Looks at the Forgotten Story of Memphis' American Sound Studio

September 13, 2012

When you think of Memphis music, Sun Studio, Stax and Hi-Tone are all household names in the roots of blues and rock 'n' roll. One Memphis studio however is not frequently mentioned. NPR looks at the music and hits made at this studio, in a new article called "The Forgotten Story Of Memphis' American Studios."

Throughout the late '60s and early '70s, American Sound Studio became a hot spot for musicians, singers and songwriters. With over 100 hits created in the North Memphis studio, music greats sought out founder Chips Moman to produce their recording sessions and the legendary house band, the Memphis Boys, to perform their instrumentals.

"The local seal of approval came in January and February of 1969, when Elvis Presley, Memphis' biggest hit maker, was in serious need of continuing the career revival he'd sparked with his 1968 television special," states NPR.

"From Elvis in Memphis" and "From Memphis to Vegas/From Vegas to Memphis" were the result of those recordings with four singles reaching the billboard charts. Among those hit recordings were "Suspicious Minds," "In the Ghetto," "Kentucky Rain" and "Don't Cry Daddy."

Read the entire article about American Sound Studio at NPR.org. To see photos and video from the Memphis Boys' performance during Elvis Week 2012, visit ElvisWeek.com.

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