Welcome back to This Week in Memphis! We’re glad you’re here. As we head into the week of January 4–10, 2026, we’ve got some fun stories from Memphis history and exciting events lined up. Let’s dive in.
On This Week in Memphis History
Elvis Presley’s Birthday
January 8, 1935
On January 8, Memphis and the world celebrate the birthday of Elvis Presley, born in Tupelo but made into the King of Rock and Roll right here on Union Avenue at Sun Records.
Elvis revolutionized American music, blending country, blues, and gospel to shape global pop culture. His sound put Memphis on the map as a musical crossroads, drawing artists and fans from around the globe.
From Graceland to Beale Street, Elvis’s legacy lives on in the city’s rhythm and energy, inspiring generations and making Memphis a place where music history is made every day.
Also this week in Memphis history:
- 🎵 ‘(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay’ Single Released — January 8, 1968. Otis Redding’s posthumous classic on Stax/Volt becomes a defining Memphis soul hit.
- 🎂 Will Barton — Birthday, January 6. Memphis Tigers scorer and longtime NBA wing.
- 🎂 Tony Allen — Birthday, January 11. ‘Grindfather’ and defensive heartbeat of grit-and-grind era.
- 🎂 Kemmons Wilson — Birthday, January 5. Founder of Holiday Inn and pioneer of family-friendly hotels.
- 🎂 Sam Phillips — Birthday, January 5. Sun Records founder who discovered Elvis, Johnny Cash, and Jerry Lee Lewis.
- 🎂 Chris Douglas-Roberts — Birthday, January 8. ‘CDR’ was a Memphis Tigers All-American swingman.
What’s Happening This Week
Memphis is bursting with energy this week! From historic celebrations to iconic food festivals and open-air concerts, here’s your guide to the best happenings in the 901:
Richard Wilson – Soulful Jazz Bossanova and Blues
🎨 Date & Time: January 6, 10:00 AM
📍 Location: Just Love Coffee
Enjoy live soulful jazz, bossa nova, and blues at Just Love Coffee. Free entry with tips appreciated for the artist.
DJ Night at No Comment Wine Bar
🎨 Date & Time: January 8
📍 Location: No Comment Wine Bar
Unwind midweek with a cozy DJ set at No Comment Wine Bar. Free admission and good vibes all night.
Wolf River 5K
🎨 Date & Time: January 10, 7:00 AM
📍 Location: Wolf River Greenway
Join the annual 5K along the scenic Wolf River Greenway. Family-friendly fun and benefits the Wolf River Conservancy.
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