Mempho Presents hit the ground running this May with an unforgettable music festival in Tom Lee Park, Friday, May1st, through Sunday, May 3rd. This was RiverBeat Music Festival’s third annual edition, where more than 30 artists and DJs performed live across three stages overlooking the Mississippi River. Some of the weekend’s heavy-hitters included Boo Mitchell’s Royal Studios Jam, Marshmello, The Red Clay Strays, Wu-Tang Clan, and Dave Matthews Band.
RiverBeat will always hold a special place in my heart as my first music festival. I was blown away by the Southern charm, impeccable weather, and diverse selection of music. The first day flew by with a stunning sunset and the Memphis bridge lit up in festival colors. I was excited to see Gus’ Fried Chicken cranking out amazing tender baskets that hit the spot on the first surprisingly chilly night. I also loved the bold colors and beautiful graphics used throughout the festival, from the introduction videos to the wristbands. Everything felt special and well thought through.
The Red Clay Strays were the last act of that Friday night. They played their classic, “Wondering Why,” halfway through their set, which was a crowd hit. Drummer John Hall’s high-energy performance particularly stood out to me. I’ve never seen a man more excited about their job than this guy. The band also performed with a theme in mind. Back in 2020, the group was struggling with mental health and “Devil in My Ear” is a song inspired by the internal battle faced in anxiety and depression. The set eventually progressed to a more hopeful message with “God Does” that discusses the encouragement they receive in their faith in Christ. Being in the middle of a swaying crowd listening to this song was emotional to say the least. On stage, lead singer Brandon Coleman talked about not being strictly in a Christian genre; who they are bleeds into what they sing, and their relationship with God is simply a part of them.
On the second day, I explored the auction tent, where employee Kaylee told me about Positive Legacy’s mission. RiverBeat is one of many music festivals in which they raise money and partner with local businesses. Kaylee said, “Gibson’s Donuts actually donated a guitar for us for Dave Matthews to sign.” Half of what was raised went to support the youth of Memphis through Stax Music Academy, while the other half went toward grants for nonprofits that improve food security, education, cultural preservation, and more.
I even got to speak with a Memphis-made: DJ South Memphis Jeff, who has done practically every job in the music industry, including working as a tour production manager for Janelle Monáe and now a music professor at University of Memphis. He performed a fun DJ set with some of his students present in the crowd.
Jeff moved back to Memphis in 2020 to invest in his neighborhood and city. Reflecting on his stacked career, he said, “You get to that point where you start saying, ‘How can I give back?'” He stresses the importance of investing in the next generation of artists.
There was so much more to see, eat, and do at RiverBeat! If you didn’t get the chance to experience the sight and sounds of RiverBeat this year, Mempho will host another music festival planned for October 9th through 11th at the Radians Amphitheater at Memphis Botanic Garden. (You’ll probably see me there!)
