Verlyn Lkinkenborg did an OPINION piece in the New York Times recently on the song “Memphis.” She begins her article by saying “If I had to name the best short story in the form of a song lyric, I suspect the winner would be Chuck Berry’s “Memphis, Tennessee,” first released as a B-side in 1959.” To read the full article click here.
Listen to the three version she mentions below and decide which one you like best. I am a very big fan of Chuck Berry, who is not only a great singer/performer, but in my opinion also the best guitar player of all time. My vote goes to Chuck.
Chuck Berry
Johnny Rivers
Buck Owens
Tags: The Best
Chuck is amazing, more influential than pretty much any guitarist, save perhaps Les Paul. Even Keith Richards cites him as his main man!
So, my vote’s for Chuck!
I am sure you have seen the movie that chronicles the life of Chuck Berry where he is on Keith Richards’ butt because he is not playing up to Chuck’s standard. It was pretty clear to me while watching it that Keith has tremendous respect for Chuck Berry.
Chuck hands down! Chuck’s version strikes a resonant chord in the heart of this native Memphian! .
Thanks Rebecca, I think I will listen to it again right now.
The Johnny Rivers version is the definitive version-period