This Week in Memphis History for August 29 – September 4, 2025: music, sports, culture, and upcoming events from This is Memphis.
📜 This Week in Memphis History
Week of August 29 – September 4, 2025
Welcome to your weekly dive into Memphis history—from legendary music and iconic hotels to Tigers and culture-defining moments that shaped the 901.
🗓 On This Week in Memphis History
August 31: MJG’s Birthday 🎂
MJG—one half of the legendary 8Ball & MJG duo—celebrates his birthday this week. Together with 8Ball, MJG’s sound helped define the Southern hip-hop movement out of South Memphis and put the Bluff City on the national rap map. Their impact continues to inspire artists and fans of Memphis history.
September 1, 1925: The Peabody Hotel Opens
The iconic Peabody Hotel at Union & 2nd officially reopened its doors in Downtown Memphis, hailing itself as “the South’s Grand Hotel.” The Peabody has become a beloved landmark, home to the world-famous Peabody Ducks and countless moments in Memphis history.
August 31, 2008: TOM III the Tiger Born
TOM III—the third live tiger mascot of the University of Memphis—was born this week in 2008. As a symbol on campus, TOM III captured Tiger fans’ hearts and a permanent spot in Memphis history at Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium and beyond.
🎶 Music City Moments
It’s only right to spotlight MJG‘s birthday, as his career alongside 8Ball pioneered Memphis hip-hop. Their sound echoed from studios in South Memphis to Beale Street, building on the legacy set by Stax and Sun Studio. From “Space Age Pimpin’” to influencing a wave of Southern rap, MJG’s mark on Memphis music and Memphis history spans generations.
🏀 Tigers & Grizzlies Flashback
In late August 2008, the birth of TOM III gave University of Memphis fans a new live mascot to rally behind. TOM III appeared at Memphis Tigers football and basketball games, representing “Tiger Pride” and becoming a fixture in Memphis Tigers basketball history throughout the Mid-South.
🏙 Memphis Culture & Legacy
The reopening of The Peabody in Downtown Memphis in September 1925 marked the start of a new era for the city’s hospitality scene. As the “living room of Memphis,” this hotel has welcomed guests from celebrities to civil rights leaders, while its historic lobby and Peabody Ducks continue to be enduring symbols of Memphis legacy.
📅 Don’t Miss This Week in Memphis
Memphis Music & Heritage Festival — Sat-Sun, Downtown (Live performances and food along Main Street highlight local talent and culture.)
Peabody Duck March Anniversary — Sun, 11am @ The Peabody Hotel (Celebrate the tradition at the historic lobby with special guests.)
Tigers Football Home Opener — Sat, 6pm @ Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium (Cheer on the Memphis Tigers as they kick off the season!)
💡 Sponsor Spotlight
This week’s newsletter is brought to you by Your Business Here. Want to reach thousands of locals who love Memphis, music, and culture? Become a sponsor and get your brand in front of Memphis history buffs and event-goers.
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