In 2023, the City of Memphis partnered with global consultancy Sound Diplomacy to conduct a deep analysis of our music ecosystem. Together with local organizations and stakeholders, we developed a comprehensive music strategy—a roadmap with clear, actionable recommendations to strengthen, grow, and protect Memphis music for generations to come. 

Memphis music isn’t just a cultural treasure—it’s a powerful economic sector fueling growth and opportunity across our region. 

Key Findings: 

• $721 million in annual business activity 

• $458 million in direct spending 

• Major contributions to employee wages, business income, and operational expenses 

The Ripple Effect: 
For every $1 generated by music, an additional $0.75 flows into tourism, hospitality, retail, and service industries—extending music’s impact far beyond the stage. 

Read the Executive Summary 

Read the Full Report 

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT & RECOMMENDATION PRIORITIES 

The Memphis Music Strategy was shaped through extensive collaboration and stakeholder input: 

• January – October 2024 | Collaborative initiative led by Sound Diplomacy 

• October 2024 | Stewardship transitioned to the Office of Creative & Cultural Economy 

• March 2025 | Strategy published and presented at Minglewood Hall 

• March – August 2025 | Music Recommendation Reading Rooms series
   

Engagement at a Glance: 

• 1,032 stakeholders participated through focus groups, surveys, interviews, and Reading Rooms 

• Insights were drawn from real experiences within Memphis’ music ecosystem

   

Community-Driven Recommendations: 
Based on stakeholder feedback, the following initiatives emerged as priorities to strengthen Memphis’ music ecosystem: 

1. Create a Music Ecosystem Development Fund
   Participants consistently emphasized the need for community infrastructure—from physical spaces to culturally relevant programming—to support artists at every stage. A dedicated development fund would provide critical investment in the people, places, and programs that sustain Memphis’ music culture.
   
   
2. Provide or Sponsor Training and Networking Opportunities 
   There was strong interest in professional development for music workers, especially emerging artists. Attendees called for workshops on contract negotiation, music distribution, and self-marketing—tools that empower artists to thrive creatively and financially. Networking opportunities were also seen as essential to building a more connected and collaborative music community. 
   
   

3. Found an Annual Memphis Recording and Publishing Conference
   Participants saw value in creating a flagship event that brings together artists, producers, and industry professionals to share knowledge, build relationships, and elevate Memphis as a hub for music innovation. A recurring conference would also help spotlight local talent and attract national attention.

   These community-driven priorities will guide the next phase of action for the Office of Creative and Cultural Economy and its ecosystem partners. Each recommendation is further detailed in the full Memphis Music Strategy Report