Rock 'n' Roll Tours

03/19/2025

🏰 **Memphis Wednesday: The Story of Robert B. Snowden, Jr. & Ashlar Hall** 🎩

If Memphis had its very own castle, it would undoubtedly be **Ashlar Hall**. This stunning "mock castle" at 1397 Central Avenue was designed and built in 1896 by R. Brinkley Snowden, a prominent Memphis real estate baron. But the true enchantment of this story lies with his son, **Robert Bogardus Snowden Jr.**, the man who called this castle home.

Born at **Ashlar Hall** the very year it was completed, Robert grew up surrounded by wealth, prestige, and Memphis history. And what a life he led!

✈️ **From Flying Dreams to Farming Reality:**
Robert studied agriculture with plans of becoming a farmer, but **World War I** took him on a different path. He served as a pilot during the war, where he fell in love with his future wife, Grace Mountcastle, a nurse who later became his partner in farming and civic life. After the war, the couple married in 1919 and settled on a grand estate called **Snowden Plantation**, a 1,000-acre farm near Horseshoe Lake, Arkansas.

🎡 **Life Beyond the Castle Walls:**
Robert remained close to Memphis, playing an active role in civic activities like the famous **Cotton Carnival.** But his heart was always in the skies. In the late 1920s, his dreams took flight when he launched an airplane factory in Little Rock, designing and producing over 350 planes. Unfortunately, the **stock market crash of 1929** forced him to shutter his factory and return to farming, a pursuit he and Grace continued until their passing in the 1980s.

🕰️ **Ashlar Hall Today:**
Though Robert’s life moved beyond Memphis, his childhood home continues to captivate locals and visitors alike. Known as "Memphis' Castle," **Ashlar Hall** has lived many lives. Once a private residence, it also functioned as a restaurant, nightclub, and artist haven. Today, it stands as a monument to Memphis history and Robert’s remarkable story.

When people talk about Memphis’ “old money,” the **Snowden name** always comes up. Their legacy stretches far beyond architecture and wealth—it’s rooted in service, innovation, and unforgettable contributions to Memphis culture.

💭 What’s your favorite Memphis landmark with a story as rich as Ashlar Hall’s? Let us know in the comments!

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Ready to explore hidden stories like these in Memphis? Join us on a private tour and uncover Memphis’ secrets—where castles meet cotton fields and history comes alive. Book your tour today: www.RocknRollTours.net.

🛤️ Stay tuned for more discoveries next Wednesday!

03/17/2025

🌟 **Elvis' Hidden Memphis: The Pinch District Connection**

**Exploring Elvis' Spiritual Journey in Memphis...**

Did you know? After living in Lauderdale Courts, the Presley family moved to 462 Alabama Ave in the Pinch District. While the original house is now gone (due to highway construction), the story of what happened there is absolutely fascinating!

While living on the bottom floor, the Presleys formed an incredible friendship with their upstairs neighbors - Rabbi Alfred and Jeanette Fruchter. This relationship reveals a beautiful chapter in Elvis' spiritual journey:

✨ **The Friendship:**
- The Fruchters often helped the Presleys financially
- Lent Elvis their record player
- Shared many meals together
- Gave Elvis a special graduation present

👑 **Elvis & Jewish Traditions:**
- Loved Jeanette's challah on Friday nights
- Helped with their baby
- Assisted the family during Shabbat
- Later donated to Memphis Hebrew Academy (where "Sir Rabbi" Alfred was principal)
- Contributed to the Jewish Community Centre in Gladys' name

Did you know? Elvis' connection to Judaism might have deeper roots - his maternal great-grandmother was believed to have Jewish heritage. You can see hints of this on Gladys' original gravestone, now preserved in the Graceland archives.

🎵 **Elvis' Spiritual Symbols:**
He famously wore both the Star of David and Chai (symbolizing vitality and good luck). As he said, he wore various religious symbols because "he didn't want to be rejected from heaven on a technicality." Ever the spiritual seeker!

👉 **Want to explore these hidden Memphis stories in person?** Join us for a private tour where we dig deeper into the real Elvis - beyond the usual tourist spots!

[Book Your Private Tour Here] www.rocknrolltours.net

Stay tuned! Full video coming soon to our YouTube channel!

03/14/2025

🎸 When Tour Stories Lead to Hidden Rock History - And Create New Memories!

Yesterday's VIP Elvis Legacy Experience with Larry and Cheryl from Dallas turned into an amazing journey of discovery! Not only were they blown away by our deep dive into Elvis' Memphis and the incredible scope of Graceland, but it led us to uncover some fascinating hometown connections.

During our personalized tour, Larry mentioned his roots in Wichita Falls, Texas. As Rock 'n' Roll Tours, we love these moments—when one story leads to another piece of hidden rock history!

Here's what we discovered about Elvis in Wichita Falls:

🎤 1955 - The Early Days:

April 25: Elvis, Scotty, and Bill played the M-B Corral Club
August 22: A memorable show at Spudder Park

🎸 1956 - Rising Star:

January 19: Two shows at Municipal Auditorium (tickets just $1.25-$1.50!)
April 9: Returned as a headliner after his Milton Berle Show appearance

💫 Local Memories: An 8-year-old fan remembered, "He was real nice and polite to the crowd" (though his mom wasn't happy about school the next day!). Some fans even claimed they snagged the hood ornament from Elvis' Cadillac!

This is what makes our VIP Elvis Legacy Experience special - it's not just about seeing the sites, it's about connecting the dots of rock 'n' roll history and discovering your own connection to the King's story. Every tour reveals new stories, new connections, and new perspectives on Elvis' incredible journey.

👉 Ready to Discover Your Elvis Connection? Don't miss out on creating your own Memphis memories. Our VIP Elvis Legacy Experience gives you the following:

Personal guide sharing exclusive stories
Complete Graceland access
Hidden Elvis locations most tours miss
Intimate, personalized experience (max 5 guests)
Door-to-door service

🎵 Book your VIP experience today and let's uncover your connection to Elvis' story. Who knows? Maybe he performed in your hometown too!

Book Your VIP Elvis Legacy Experience Now



P.S. Spots are limited (we keep groups small for the best experience), so don't wait to book your personal journey through Elvis' Memphis!

03/13/2025

🎸 Something NEW for Elvis fans at Graceland! Check out this exclusive sneak peek at the brand-new exhibit. Guess which piece of music history we found? Watch now and let us know your thoughts below! 👇✨

03/07/2025

🎶 Planning a B.B. King Adventure! 🎸

Hey, rock 'n' roll fans! I’ve got something special in the works, and I’m bringing you along for the ride. In the next couple of weeks, I’m heading over to Itta Bena, Mississippi—the hometown of the legendary B.B. King!

As part of my research for a brand-new B.B. King Tour, I’ll also be exploring other towns across the Mississippi Delta that shaped the King of the Blues’ incredible journey. While I’m there, I thought, why not bring YOU the Delta experience too?

💡 Here’s the idea:
I’ll be going LIVE on Facebook from a few key spots to give you a sneak peek into the life of B.B. King and the places that inspired him.
For those who can’t make it to the Mississippi Delta, I’m planning some quick, behind-the-scenes videos to bring the stories right to you.

What do you think? Would you want to:
👉 Join me live?
👉 Watch the quick videos later?

Let me know by liking this post, dropping a comment, or sharing it with a fellow blues fan! Your input will help me shape this experience so I can bring the magic to you in the best way possible.

🤘 At Rock 'n' Roll Tours, we’re always digging deep to bring you the coolest rock ‘n’ roll stories and unforgettable tours, and this B.B. King Tour is going to add some serious blues magic to the lineup!

Stay tuned for updates—I’ll share the date soon. Until then, let’s celebrate the Blues! 🎷🎶🎉

02/27/2025

🎶 **March is Almost Here — Memphis is Calling!** 🎸

Spring is the *perfect* time to explore the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll and the soul of American music. On our tours, you’ll stand where legends like Elvis, Johnny Cash, and Otis Redding made history—and see Memphis as it was meant to be experienced! 🌟

Check out some of the iconic stops featured on our tours:
📍 *Take a stroll down Beale Street, the heartbeat of Memphis music.*
📍 *Visit the legendary Stax Museum, home to soul music’s greatest moments.*
📍 *Snap a pic at Sun Studio and see where rock ‘n’ roll began.*

🚨 **March dates are filling fast!** Don’t miss out—book now to secure your spot and be part of this unforgettable journey through Memphis music history.

📅 *Reserve your spot today:* https://widgets.bokun.io/online-sales/4afcfbce-a1d7-46cf-b0cf-83febcb34e6f/product-list/83281?page=1
📩 Questions? Drop a comment or shoot me a message!

Let me show you the sights, sounds, and stories that define Memphis—one stop at a time. Let’s make this March truly rock ‘n’ roll!

12/11/2024

🎸 Did You Know? Elvis Presley was just 19 when he stepped into Sun Studio for his first recording session! That moment changed music forever.

Join Rock ‘n’ Roll Tours to get the full story—and see where it all began. You’ll also discover hidden spots that shaped Memphis’s music legacy!

📆 Book your tour now and walk in the footsteps of Elvis and rock legends!

🔗 https://www.rocknrolltours.net/vip-elvis-experience

What's your favorite Elvis Sun song? Ours is Baby, Let's Play House.

12/09/2024

🎵 Hidden Memphis Gem Alert 🔥

Ever wonder where Elvis got his gospel soul?

Let me take you back in time to East Trigg Baptist Church, where young Elvis would slip in on Sundays, soaking in the powerful sounds that would shape his music forever...

💡 Fun fact: The pastor here, Dr. Herbert Brewster, wrote Mahalia Jackson’s million-selling “Move On Up A Little Higher” and broadcast on the same radio station (WHBQ) that would later play Elvis’s first record!

As we celebrate East Trigg Baptist Church’s century of musical influence, these stories become even more precious to preserve and share.

🎯 Discover more hidden Memphis connections on our private VIP tours...

👉 Book your exclusive experience today! www.RocknRollTours.net

10/31/2024

🎸 JOIN OUR TEAM AS A BEALE STREET BLITZ TOUR GUIDE! 🎺

Are you passionate about Memphis history and love sharing stories? We're seeking enthusiastic individuals to lead unforgettable tours on iconic Beale Street starting in 2025!

✨ Why Join Us?
- Earn $50 per tour, plus bonuses and commissions
- Flexible schedule – ideal for retirees, students, or gig workers
- Gain experience and grow into leading private tours
- Training provided with a lively tour script

🗓️ Tour Availability:
- Tours will vary from 1 to 5 per month, with the potential to increase as you gain experience
- Flexible hours; most tours will move towards afternoons or early evenings

🌟 Ideal Candidate:
- Passionate about Memphis & Beale Street history
- Strong public speaking skills
- Comfortable walking and speaking for an hour
- Smartphone-savvy to enhance tours with music
- Independent contractor role

Explore our tour: https://www.rocknrolltours.net/beale-street-blitz

📧 Ready to inspire with us? Email [email protected] with the subject: "Beale Street Blitz Guide"

08/09/2024

Did you know that Elvis used to unwind by playing touch football with his closest friends right here in Memphis? 🏈 This hidden spot holds memories of laughter, competition, and camaraderie that fueled his incredible journey. Want to stand where Elvis did and hear the stories that made these moments special? Join our tour and uncover the secrets of Memphis’ musical past!

**Tours like these give you an inside look into the lesser-known moments that shaped rock ‘n’ roll history. Don’t just visit Memphis—experience it with us. 🎸

08/07/2024

🎸 We had an amazing family join us on our Johnny Cash Tour this past Friday! They had a fantastic time learning about Johnny Cash’s early days in Memphis. Their son, a huge Johnny Cash fan, was thrilled to explore the sights and stories of the Man in Black.

On my recommendation, they visited , a top-notch guitar store here in Memphis. They were so impressed that they ended up taking a beautiful guitar home with them! 🎸

If you’re a fan of Johnny Cash or just love discovering music history, we’d love to have you on our next Johnny Cash Tour. It’s an experience you won’t forget!

👉 Book your tour today and let’s create some unforgettable memories together!

06/05/2024

🎸🌅 Experience the Heart of Music History with The Johnny Cash Experience in Memphis! 🌅🎸

Ever wondered what inspired the legendary Man in Black? Join us on a journey through Memphis, the city that shaped Johnny Cash's early musical career. From his iconic first recordings to the venues that echoed with his groundbreaking sound, this tour offers an intimate glimpse into the roots of a music legend.

👣 Walk in the footsteps of Johnny Cash.
🎶 Discover the places that nurtured his unique style.
📸 See rare memorabilia that tells the story of his rise to fame.

Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a history buff, this tour promises unforgettable insights into one of music’s most influential figures.

📅 Limited spots available – Book your tour today and step into the legend with us!

🔗www.RocknRollTours.net

05/26/2024

A couple of years ago, we had the pleasure of interviewing Jimmy Harrell from Alton and Jimmy, who recorded at the legendary Sun Records in Memphis, TN.

In our blog, we dive into the rich history of Sun Records and chat with Jimmy Harrell about their iconic tracks.

📀 Featured:

The story behind Sun Records 323 A-Side "No More Crying the Blues"
An exclusive interview with Jimmy Harrell
Behind-the-scenes tales from the golden days of rock 'n' roll

Curious to hear more? Check out the full blog post where you can listen to the complete 20-minute interview and immerse yourself in the vibrant history of Memphis music.

👉 Read the blog and listen to the podcast here! https://www.rocknrolltours.net/post/memphis-rock-n-roll-history-jimmy-harrell

✨ Want to experience it all firsthand? Join me on a Rock 'n' Roll Tour and discover the hidden gems of Memphis, from historic recording studios to iconic landmarks. Book your tour now at www.rocknrolltours.net!

Don't forget to subscribe to my podcast for more fascinating stories and follow us on social media for the latest updates!

🎶

Explore Memphis rock 'n' roll history with Brandon Cunning! Dive into Sun Records stories, exclusive interviews, and book your tour today!

05/18/2024

🎸✨ Celebrating the Legacy of Cordell Jackson: A Rock 'n' Roll Pioneer! ✨🎸

Hey music lovers, especially those passionate about Memphis music history! Today, we're honoring the incredible Cordell Jackson (1923-2004), a true trailblazer in the world of rock 'n' roll. Known as one of the first ladies of rock 'n' roll, Cordell made her mark not just as a talented guitarist, but as a pioneering producer, engineer, and label owner!

🌟 **Early Life and Beginnings** 🌟
Born Cordell Miller in Pontotoc, Mississippi, Cordell's musical journey started early, performing in her father's band and on local radio. After moving to Memphis in the 1940s, she recorded demos for Sam Phillips before he founded Sun Records.

🎵 **Moon Records: A Landmark in Music History** 🎵
In 1956, Cordell founded Moon Records, becoming the first woman to produce, engineer, and promote music on her own rock 'n' roll label. Her first single, "Beboppers Christmas," marked the beginning of a remarkable career. She recorded and promoted music from her home studio, showcasing talents like Allen Page and Johnny Tate.

🎸 **Revival and Recognition** 🎸
The 1980s saw a revival of Cordell's music, thanks to artists like Tav Falco and Alex Chilton. She wowed audiences with her signature red Hagstrom guitar, performing in nightclubs across the country. Cordell even made it to national TV, appearing on Late Night with David Letterman and a memorable Budweiser commercial with Brian Setzer.

📀 **Lasting Legacy** 📀
Cordell's Moon Records became the oldest continuously operating label in Memphis. Her contributions to rock 'n' roll are celebrated at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Memphis Rock N' Soul Museum. Her only solo album, "Cordell Jackson — Live in Chicago," remains a testament to her enduring talent.

Cordell Jackson passed away in 2004, but her spirit and music continue to inspire. Let's take a moment to remember and celebrate this extraordinary woman who helped shape the sound of rock 'n' roll!

The news article was from 1954 and it looks like somebody stole her guitar and other music equipment.

Doing some research the home she used for her studio and Moon Records is gone. It looks like the neighbor plowed it over to make room for his garden.

Share your favorite Cordell Jackson song or memory in the comments below! 🎤🎶



Don't forget at Rock 'n' Roll Tours you'll hear her story and many more on one of our Rock 'n' Roll Tours. Book your Rock 'n' Roll Journey at www.RocknRollTours.net

05/16/2024

Are you fascinated by the vibrant past of Memphis's iconic Beale Street? We’re planning an exclusive online event to explore the rich history, cultural significance, and legendary stories of this famous street!

What You'll Learn:

The origins of Beale Street and its cultural impact.
Key historical events that shaped Beale Street.
The influence of legendary musicians and performers.
Behind-the-scenes stories and fascinating facts.
Interested? We want to hear from you!

👉 Comment below or send us a message with your answers to these quick questions:

Have you ever visited Beale Street in Memphis?

What aspects of Beale Street’s history are you most interested in?

What time of day would be most convenient for you to attend a 1.5-hour online event?

Morning
Afternoon
Evening

Stay tuned for more details, including the date and price! Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to explore Beale Street like never before!

05/13/2024

Ever wondered what makes a music tour in Memphis truly unforgettable? 🎸 It's all about those personal touches that resonate with your rock 'n' roll soul! 🎶 We're here to ensure you don't miss a beat with our tailored adventures. Let's explore every chord of Memphis's rich music history together! 🎷 Ready to rock? 🤘 Book your Memphis Music Legends Tour today! 🌟

03/21/2024

Announcing Our Newest Tour!

We're thrilled to unveil our latest tour, an exclusive experience featuring a true music icon.

Check out the video below to get a sneak peek of our newest tour.

02/23/2024

🎉 Dive into the quirky history of Beale Street with us! 🐐 From the mysterious Judge Gallina to the legendary Silky O'Sullivan's, our blog takes you on a wild ride through time and goat-spiced antics. 🏛️ Discover the untold stories behind the Gallina Exchange Building and the spirited Irish Diving Goats that call it home. 🎶 Don't miss out on Memphis' hidden gems – click below to read more and book your tour with Rock 'n' Roll Tours! 🚌✨

Introduction Step into the vibrant tapestry of Beale Street and prepare to be captivated by its eclectic charm. Amidst the lively atmosphere, an extraordinary sight arrests your attention—a building seemingly suspended in mid-air by six sturdy steel girders. Curiosity beckons you closer, only to d...