Southern Avenue has emerged as a formidable force in the contemporary music landscape, captivating audiences with their unique fusion of blues, soul, and gospel. This episode delves into the band's remarkable journey, tracing their origins back to Memphis and highlighting the diverse backgrounds of its members, including two sisters raised on gospel music and an Israeli guitarist. We explore how their early days in local venues like the Buccaneer shaped their sound and honed their craft, ultimately leading to their historic signing with the iconic Stax Records after a 40-year hiatus. The discussion also encompasses their evolving musical style, the intricate dynamics of their creative process, and the powerful messages embedded in their lyrics, which resonate deeply with listeners. As we conclude, we invite our audience to experience the infectious energy and heartfelt artistry of Southern Avenue, recognizing their pivotal role in the resurgence of these timeless genres.

Southern Avenue

Welcome to our podcast! Today, we introduce Southern Avenue, a dynamic band from Memphis, Tennessee, blending blues, soul, and gospel. Formed in 2015, they named themselves after a Memphis street leading to "Soulsville," the original home of Stax Records. ​

The band features vocalist Tierinii Jackson, guitarist Ori Naftaly, drummer Tikyra Jackson, keyboardist Jeremy Powell, and bassist Evan Sarver. Their self-titled debut album in 2017 reached number 6 on the Billboard Top Blues Albums Chart. Their 2019 album, "Keep On," earned a Grammy nomination for Best Contemporary Blues Album. ​

Southern Avenue is known for their electrifying performances at festivals like Bonnaroo and Firefly. In 2024, they signed with Alligator Records and are set to release their new album, "Family," on April 25th, reflecting their growth and unity. ​

Stay tuned as we explore Southern Avenue's musical journey, inspirations, and future plans.

Southern Avenue, a band that has recently made significant waves in the music scene, is the focal point of this episode. The dialogue begins with an introduction of the band, highlighting their Memphis roots and the unique blend of musical influences that characterize their sound. The hosts delve into the band’s distinctive combination of blues, soul, and gospel, noting that while their music is steeped in tradition, it remains refreshingly contemporary. This exploration of their sound is enriched by the contrasting backgrounds of the band members, particularly the two sisters whose upbringing in gospel music intersects intriguingly with the experiences of an Israeli guitarist, Ori. The hosts express enthusiasm for learning more about the band's journey, setting the stage for a deeper investigation into their musical evolution.

The conversation transitions to Southern Avenue's early days, where the band honed their skills at a local venue known as the Buccaneer. The hosts emphasize that this raw, unadulterated environment served as a crucible for their artistic growth, allowing them to develop a sound that encapsulates their diverse influences. It is noted that the energy cultivated in these early performances is palpable in their recordings, lending authenticity to their debut album. The dialogue also touches on the pivotal moment when Southern Avenue became the first band in four decades to sign with the legendary Stax Records, a milestone that speaks to their unique appeal and the authenticity of their artistry.

As the episode unfolds, the hosts examine the individual contributions of the band members, emphasizing the chemistry that exists between them. They explore how Tyrinni's powerful vocal performances, Takira's dynamic drumming, and Ori's blues-infused guitar work come together to create a compelling musical experience. Additionally, the discussion reflects on the thematic elements present in Southern Avenue's music, particularly their messages of resilience and hope. The hosts articulate how these themes resonate profoundly within the context of contemporary society, making their music not just a source of enjoyment but also a vehicle for connection and inspiration. The episode concludes with a call to listeners to engage with Southern Avenue's music, underscoring the importance of authenticity and the enduring power of blues and soul.

Takeaways:

• Southern Avenue's unique sound is a fusion of blues, soul, and gospel, reflecting diverse influences.
• The band's journey began in Memphis, where their contrasting backgrounds contributed to their vibrant music.
• Their early performances at the Buccaneer shaped their raw sound, providing a foundation for their artistry.
• Signing with Stax Records marked a significant milestone, as they became the first band in 40 years to do so.
• Themes of resilience and hope permeate their lyrics, resonating deeply with audiences today.
• Their music embodies a contemporary spirit while honoring the rich traditions of Memphis's musical legacy.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Southern Avenue
• Stax Records
• The Buccaneer