sun records tour nashville

Music Cities: Memphis, Nashville, & Pigeon Forge

October 30, 2024 thru november 6, 2024.

E mbark on a 8-day journey where melodies meet the mountains. From the legendary Graceland to the vibrant heart of Nashville’s music scene, discover the stories behind iconic tunes. Let the festive spirit of Dollywood enchant you, and be awed by the timeless beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains. This tour is a symphony of America’s musical legacy and natural wonders!

Transportation

Roundtrip air transportation

8 days, 7 nights

Activity Level 3

• 14 meals (7 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4 dinner)

Availability

All tips for included items

Tour Highlights

• 2 Nights at the Guest House at Graceland
• Memphis City Tour
• Sun Records Recording Studio Tour
• Elvis Experience Tour at Graceland
• Welcome Dinner
• Loretta Lynn Ranch Guided Tour
• 3 Nights at the Gaylord Opryland Resort
• Country Music Hall of Fame
• Ryman Auditorium
• Grand Ole Opry with Inlcuded Dinner
• Nashville City Tour
• General Jackson Showboat
• Santa Fe Show & Dinner
• 2 Nights at Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort & Spa
• Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas
• Great Smoky Mountain National Park
• Skyland Ranch Show & Dinner
• Roundtrip air transportation ABQ (Not including airline baggage and in-flight charges)
• Transportation by deluxe motorcoach
• 7 nights’ lodging
• Baggage handling at hotels (for one piece)
• Admission to all listed attractions
• Your professional SUN TOURS Tour Director
• All taxes and tips for included items (except hotel housekeeping)

Day 1 — Graceland

Fly into Memphis and transfer to the Guest House at Graceland for a two-night stay. Graceland is the famed home of Elvis Presley which sits on a 13.8 acre estate and is now a testament to his legacy. We have the evening to enjoy Graceland and and an independant dinner.

Day 2 — Memphis Music History

The next day, discover Memphis on a city tour and dive into music on a tour of Sun Records Recording Studio. A cornerstone of American music history, this legendary studio played a pivitol role in the evolution of rock ‘n’ roll, blues, and country music. It is perhaps best known for discovering and recording Elvis in 1954. For lunch, head back to Graceland then take the Elvis Experience Tour. This evening we have a Welcome Dinner at King’s Palace Cafe.

Meals included: (B, L, D)

Day 3 — Loretta Lynn's Story

Journey to Nashville today, with a stop to tour Loretta Lynn’s Ranch . Loretta’s story is truly “a Rags to Riches story”. There are many attractions on the grounds including the Coal Miner’s Daughter Museum, with everything from Loretta’s simple mountain life in Kentucky to her rise to stardom. Her legendary career and life are preserved at her Ranch.

Check into the Gaylord Opryland Resort for a three-night stay and enjoy independent time.

Meals included: (B)

Day 4 — Nashville Music History

Delve into the roots of country music with a visit to the Country Music Hall of Fame . This treasure trove of artifacts, photographs, recordings, and memorabilia tell the story of country music’s origins and evolution.

Enjoy an independent lunch in bustling Downtown Nashville, followed by the iconic Ryman Auditorium tour. Known as the “Mother Church of Country Music,” the Ryman is a historic venue celebrated for its unparalleled acoustics and pivotal role in popularizing country music through the Grand Ole Opry. This evening take part in a specially included dinner and show at the Grand Ole Opry.

Meals included: (B, D)

Day 5 — Music City, USA

Embark on a Nashville City Tour to discover the city’s charms. Nashville is known as “Music City USA” and offers a unique blend of history and culture. Learn more about its landmarks and the familiar names that Nashville has produced.

Later, board the General Jackson Showboat for a scenic lunch experience as you float down Tennessee’s Cumberland River. After a break at the resort, enjoy the Santa Fe Show & Dinner.

Day 6 — Dollywood's Smoky Mountain Christmas

Today, we set off for Pigeon Forge , famously known as the home of country music icon, Dolly Parton. We’ll arrive at Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort by early afternoon, just in time to dive into the festive cheer of Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas. Explore a winter wonderland adorned with more than 6 million twinkling lights and dozens of towering Christmas trees that add a cheerful shimmer to the rides and attractions.

Enjoy an independent afternoon and evening exploring the park’s holiday-themed attractions and entertainment at your leisure.

Day 7 — Great Smoky Mountains

Embrace the beauty of Appalachia today by venturing into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park , where you’ll find an expanse of lush forests and mist-covered mountains. The Smokies are among the oldest mountains in the world, formed 200-300 million years ago. Their ancient landscapes and the fog that often envelopes them, giving them their “smoky” appearance all add to their mysteriousness. The journey continues to SkyLand Ranch in the late afternoon. Here, the SkyLand Ranch Show & Dinner awaits, offering an evening of entertainment paired with a dining experience.

Day 8 — Farewell to Music Cities

On the last day of our tour, we will transfer back to Nashville to catch our flight home, taking back memories of music and mountains.

Itinerary subject to change.

Memphis - Home of the Blues

Memphis is often referred to as the Home of the Blues. Beale Street, a historic street lined with blues clubs and restaurants, played a pivotal role in the development of the blues genre, with legendary musicians like B.B. King and W.C. Handy performing there.

Elvis Presley - King of Rock & Roll

Elvis began his music career in 1954 with Sun Records in Memphis. The label's owner, Sam Phillips, is often credited with discovering Elvis, though it was actually his assistant, Marion Keisker, who first took note of him.

Loretta Lynn

Loretta Lynn rose from humble beginnings in Butcher Hollow, Kentucky, to become a trailblazing country music icon, known for her poignant, autobiographical songs that spoke candidly about the lives and challenges of working-class women. Her enduring legacy is marked by groundbreaking hits like "Coal Miner's Daughter," through which she carved a path for future generations of female artists in the traditionally male-dominated genre of country music.

Nashville - Music City, USA

Nashville is globally recognized for its profound influence on the country music industry, hosting iconic venues like the Grand Ole Opry House, the Country Music Hall of Fame, and the historic Ryman Auditorium.

Dolly Parton

Dolly Parton rose from humble beginnings in rural Tennessee to become a towering figure in country music, known for her prolific songwriting, distinctive voice, and philanthropic efforts. With timeless hits like "Jolene" and "I Will Always Love You," her impact transcends music, embodying resilience and generosity, and her Imagination Library initiative has endeared her to millions as a champion of childhood literacy.

Great Smoky Mountains

The Smokies are among the oldest mountains in the world, formed 200-300 million years ago. Their age contributes to the rounded, gentle slopes that contrast with the sharp ridges found in younger mountain ranges.

Hotel Information

Guest house at graceland.

Memphis, TN

Gaylord Opryland Resort

Nashville, TN

Dollywood's DreamMore Resort & Spa

Pigeon Forge, TN

Package Pricing

$4,165 per person, double occupancy.

Deposit: $200

$4,915 per person

Single occupancy, final payment due:, july 23, 2024.

Deposit: N/A

Price Includes

• Roundtrip air transportation ABQ (Not including airline baggage and in-flight charges) • Transportation by deluxe motorcoach • 7 nights’ lodging • Baggage handling at hotels (for one piece) • 14 meals (7 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4 dinner) • Admission to all listed attractions • Your professional SUN TOURS Tour Director • All taxes and tips for included items (except hotel housekeeping)

Booking Policy

Final Payment Due: July 23, 2024

CANCELLATION FEES:

• None through July 23, 2024
• $200 – July 24 – August 27, 2024
• $2,400 – August 28 – September 24, 2024
• 100% after September 24, 2024

We pride ourselves on great service and an enjoyable experience for all and will go over our booking policies after you make your request for booking. If you’d like to learn more about our booking policies before your trip, give us a call at (520) 325-8839, or visit our Booking Policies page. Click here for more information on our booking policies.

Travel Insurance

TRAVEL PROTECTION STARTS AT $383

ACTIVITY LEVEL RATING

Level 3: Moderate

Expectations: Expect a moderate amount of walking. There will be time to rest on the coach and between attractions. To enjoy this tour, you should be prepared to walk slightly longer distances, climb stairs and tolerate periods of standing, for example on city walks, sightseeing stops or ship excursions. The daily pace and timing can fluctuate significantly between longer and shorter travel days, with additional activities possibly occurring in the early morning or evening. There may be some changes in altitude or temperatures.

Appropriate for: Most travelers beginning with those who are moderately fit, lead semi-active lives, are comfortable participating in long days of activities and expect some physical exertion.

For your reference, we send to you a detailed itinerary approximately 3-4 weeks prior to the scheduled tour departure. This has day-by-day times and events, hotel information where you can be reached in case of an emergency, and airline information.

The times listed on the itinerary are all approximate. We cannot be held responsible for schedule changes due to unforeseen circumstances with the weather, transportation agents, highway conditions, hotels or contracting agents.

EMERGENCY CONTACT

It is always a good idea to carry on your person a list of medications that you are taking and an emergency contact phone number while you are traveling. And we suggest making a copy of the itinerary and provide it to a friend or family member.

AIRLINE TICKETS

You will be issued your boarding pass the morning of our departure, after your arrival at the Albuquerque International Airport. If you have an American Airlines frequent flyer number, or a TSA number, please call our office at least 3 days prior to the tour to ensure we can note these in your reservation.

If you are joining the tour from locations other than Albuquerque, we make other arrangements for you to join the tour. Please call our office for more details.

AIRPORT SECURITY

Do not forget to bring your government issued picture ID to show at the airport. A passport is required for travel outside of the United States. If you do not have the proper ID, the airline will turn you away.

We have arranged for handling for one piece of luggage per person regarding the skycaps (where available) and hotels. If you check through luggage note that the maximum weight for the checked piece of luggage is 50 pounds and maximum size is 62 inches (length + width + height). If your bag weighs over 50 pounds the airlines will levy an extra fee that you will be responsible to pay. If you feel the need to lock your checked through luggage and your bag is searched, your lock could be damaged in the process. You can purchase a TSA (Transportation Security Administration) accepted and recognized lock at any luggage store. Make sure you ask for a TSA approved lock. These locks are the kind that TSA screeners can open by using a special tool without breaking. Passengers can carry-on 1 bag (dimensions are limited to 10x16x24 inches), plus a personal type bag, like a purse. We advise that you pack your carry-on lightly. There are restrictions regarding your carryon baggage and contents due to enhanced security measures. If you have further concerns, please visit the TSA's Web-site at www.tsa.gov. There is room inside the motorcoach for your hand carried bag.

CHECKED BAGGAGE FEES

On our scheduled airline for this tour, passengers are assessed a fee per checked in bag, by the Airlines, upon checking in for the flight.

GRATUITIES/ITEMS INCLUDED IN PRICE

All hotel baggage handling fees are included. We also include basic gratuities for the Tour Director, Coach Driver, and local Tour Guides. If someone has truly gone above and beyond additional tipping is permitted, but never required.

LODGING REQUESTS

If you would like to request special accommodations at the hotel(s) where we are lodging, please call us as soon as possible and we will forward these requests for you. The phone numbers of the hotel(s) where we are staying are listed on the itinerary.

TRAVEL REQUESTS

We pay close attention to your requests but please realize that these are merely requests and cannot be guaranteed.

RESPONSIBILITY

SUN TOURS acts solely as an agent in arranging hotels, transportation, sightseeing, baggage-handling, and other services and does not assume any liability for injury, damage, loss or delay due to any act or default of any company or person. We, along with our subcontractors, reserve the right to make changes to an itinerary if it is necessary for the proper handling of a tour.

WEATHER AND CLOTHING/MISC. SUGGESTIONS

In early November, Tennessee welcomes the crisp, cool embrace of late autumn with temperatures that can vary widely across the state. Eastern regions, particularly in the higher elevations of the Great Smoky Mountains, tend to be cooler, with daytime temperatures often in the mid-50s to low 60s°F (around 12-17°C), and nights that can cool down significantly. The central and western parts of the state experience milder conditions, with slightly warmer temperatures during the day. The entire state can enjoy clear, sunny days interspersed with cooler, overcast weather, and occasional rain showers, painting a picturesque autumnal scene with vibrant fall foliage on display, especially in the wooded and mountainous areas.

Inquire About This Tour

Submit your inquiry for more information about a tour. We will get back to you with a (human) response as soon as possible. During the week that’s usually within a couple of hours. Evenings and weekends may take us a little bit longer. Please note that this is an inquiry for tour bookings only and does not constitute or confirm a reservation on a tour.

• Name * First Last
• Tour Name *
• Number of Travelers Select Number 1 2 3 4 5 6 7+
• Name This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Call 505.889.8888 to Book Today!

If you aren't ready to inquire by email or would rather call and speak to a team member, we look forward to hearing from you.

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Sun Studio - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Record Production

Video interviews & studio tours, sun studios, exclusive video tours.

There are few studios that have had such an impact on the World as Sun Studios in Memphis. The studio played host to that famous first Elvis Presley recording but so many other major artists have started off their carrers at Sun. Some of the headline names that have recorded at the recording studio include Roy Orbison, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins and many, many more.

In addition to the Sun Studios videos we have a number of related videos recorded in or around Nashville with key people who worked at Sun in the past or have been working closely with artsits that have historical associations with Sun. These include Jack Hale (Johnny Cash), John Carter Cash (Johnny Cash!) and Cowboy Jack Clement (engineered and produced at Sun).

Part one of the Sun Studios feature

Part two of the Sun Studios feature

We would like to sincerely thank James Lott and all at Sun Studios for allowing us the time to shoot this feature. Thanks guys, we loved being there and this is one of our favourite video features!

Also, special thanks to Jack Hale for making this tour possible and to Johnny Jaskot of Babblefish.com for all his hard work in shooting and editing!

A bit of history - but visit the official Sun Studios website to find out much more!

Radio Engineer Sam Phillips opened Sun Studio as the Memphis Recording Service in January, 1950 to record the blues greats from the region who had no place else to record in the south.

Legendary bluesmen like B.B. King, Howlin Wolf, Bobby Blue Bland, Rufus Thomas and Junior Parker recorded their first records here.

In March, 1951 Jackie Brenston and the Delta Cats, with Ike Turner on piano recorded, ROCKET 88 at Sun Studio. ROCKET 88 is considered by most music historians and by Sam Phillips himself to be the first Rock 'N' Roll song.

The success of ROCKET 88 led Phillips to start his own record label in 1952; the Sun Label.

Sam shared the tiny office with Marion Keisker, who took care of most of the non-music end of the business. She also greeted the teenaged Elvis Presley when he came here in 1953 to make a personal recording, noting in the studio log that he was a "good ballad singer". In less than two years Sam Phillips took Elvis from a complete unknown who had never played in public to the most sought after singer in the country. The five records that Elvis recorded at Sun Studio fused country, blues and gospel music into a new sound that would literally change music forever.

Soon the studio would be filled with musicians hoping that Phillips could work the same magic for them. Carl Perkins' "Blue Suede Shoes" became Rock 'N' Roll's first major hit, topping the pop, country and blues charts. Johnny Cash became Sun's most consistent hitmaker. Roy Orbison, Warren Smith, Billy Lee Riley, Charlie rich and dozens more carried on the Rockabilly tradition Elvis had begun. And Jerry Lee Lewis and his pumpin' piano set the music world on fire, recording Sun's biggest hits; "Whole Lot of Shakin'" and "Great Balls of Fire."

In 1960, needing bigger quarters, Phillips closed the studio and for the next 25 years barbers and businessmen replaced the Rock 'N' Rollers. Then in 1985 Carl Perkins, Roy Orbison, Johnny Cash and Jerry Lee Lewis returned to the then empty studio to record the Class of '55 album and Sun Studio's second era of greatness began. The studio was restored with Sam Phillips' help and in 1987 opened its doors as both a tourist attraction and a working recording studio. Known for its relaxed and creative atmosphere, Sun Studio has also played host to the diverse talents of artists like Ringo Starr, Def Leppard, John Fogerty, Tom Petty, U2, The Spin Doctors, Def Leppard, The Tractors, Malcolm Yelvington, Michelle Shocked, Gatemouth Brown, The Indigo Girls, Keith Sykes, Dennis Quaid, Bonnie Raitt, Billy Swan, and The Gibson Brothers are only some of the music greats who have come to record at Sun Studio since it reopened.

Sun Studios website

https://www.sunstudio.com

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Dancing To The Beat: Sun Records In Nashville

By sun records.

Digital Album Streaming + Download

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Sun Records Nashville, Tennessee

The Sun Records sound was a fusion of rock & roll and country music (or hillbilly, as it was called in the 50’s) that was labeled rockabilly. The Sun sound was exemplified by early Sun recordings made by Elvis Presley, Carl Perkins, Jerry Lee Lewis, Johnny Cash and Roy Orbison. Sun influenced many major rock and roll artists such as the Beatles, Rolling Stones and Led Zeppelin. ...   more

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• Tours & Activities

Nashville to Memphis with Skip-The-Line Graceland VIP Tour & Sun Studio

• Nashville to Memphis Day-Trip
• Round-Trip Transportation aboard Air-Conditioned Coach Bus
• Hotel Pick-Up/Drop-Off
• Professional Driver/Guide
• Admission to Graceland with VIP Access
• Guided 1-hour Tour of Sun Studio
• Free time to explore Beale Street in Downtown Memphis
• Entry/Admission - Graceland
• Entry/Admission - Sun Studio
• Lunch (own expense)
• Souvenirs and Personal Expenses
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Wheelchair accessible coaches available; please contact tour operator 48 hours before scheduled departure
• Minimum number of 12 apply to run tour. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund.
• Wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Near public transportation
• Transportation is wheelchair accessible
• Surfaces are wheelchair accessible
• Most travelers can participate
• MULTI-LINGUAL AUDIO GUIDES: Optional Audio Guides are provided for the Graceland portion of the tour ONLY. The Graceland Mansion Tour offers tours in the following languages: English, German, Italian, Dutch, Portuguese, Spanish, Japanese, Mandarin Chinese and French.

The trip with Viator to Memphis from Nashville was as great as we had hoped! The driver was prompt with pickups and drop offs and Graceland was well worth the long day (for over 80's sisters... Graceland lived up to our expectations and was most interesting, especially the surrounding buildings. Sun Records was a trip down Memory Lane with all the equipment used to make Elvis's records before he signed with RCA, for whom I worked for many years. Thanks for a good day!!

A long day but well worth it - was told to be in lobby by 6:30 but wasn’t picked up til 7:05 (our hotel was in Midtown), then a small shuttle to a larger bus near the stadium, left Nashville by 7:30 for Memphis. Our driver Richard was great! On the ride were 2 good DVDs of Elvis which made the 3 hour bus ride go quickly. VIP tour is the only way to go at Graceland can definitely see everything in 3 hours. Sun Studio was awesome, and Richard has the best recommendation for ribs in Memphis.

Great to see Graceland, loved it! But our driver, forgot her name was very Rude and arrogant. We went on 17th August hopefully this driver is identified and given more training on customer service.

Wonderful tour! Bus driver was great! Stopped for snacks both ways. The self guided tour of Graceland was very informative! The guide @ Sun Records was a “hoot”! Overall a fabulous day!

My family took the 3 hour bus tour from Nashville to Memphis. We boarded a smaller Gray Line Tour bus at Music Valley Drive office and transferred to meet the large coach bus and other passengers. It was a smooth process. Tonya showed videos of Graceland and Elvis's life on our bus ride...getting us all excited for the big day. Passed the travel time quickly. Bathroom on bus was clean. Seats weren't the most comfortable though. Tonya had a few blankets for us that were chilled from the air conditioning. She did her best to keep things regulated for everyone's comfort. She pointed out points of interests/landmarks on our trip as well. She was very personable and shared lots of great information/suggestions to make our visit in Memphis more memorable. Having the VIP pass gave the group quicker access to things, without having to wait in long lines. Definitely the way to go. Graceland was an awesome bucket list one time experience. As moving emotionally as visiting Pearl Harbor. Peabody Hotel was beautiful but didn't stay to watch ducks walk. Beale Street was a bit of let down compared to Broadway in Nashville. It was a long day...but well worth it!

The drivers were absolutely lovely--considerate, respectful, helpful--and they did an excellent job. The promptness was appreciated. Every departure and arrival was as promised. I heartily recommend this company and tour!

This was an awesome experience, however the Graceland part of the tour was too rushed, numerous people said this that were on the tour. There is not enough time to do Graceland, Sun Studios and Beale Street. We were rushed to complete the Graceland part of the tour and had to chose what to view as we were moving on and couldn't complete it all.

We loved this trip! Tanya was great! We felt safe and secure the whole trip, great driver! So worth traveling from Nashville to see Graceland, very comfortable and fun. Sun Studios was such a great experience as well. And then listening to some great blues on Beale Street! what a way to end the day! fantastic.

Tonya was our driver to Graceland, she was great. Funny, informative and generally entertaining. The trip was on my bucket list, and was totally worth the trip. We enjoyed the day, found it very informative and loved seeing where Elvis lived and all the memorabilia. I would recommend this trip to friends.

We had just an excellent day in spite of the damp weather.Gray Lines were very accommodating with pick-up and delivery places.The driver was very friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable.Would recommend this trip to everyone.

All the drivers were wonderful. The day was long but well worth the time. Go if you can there is more to see than the past with the new museum area across the street.

the tour was more than we expected and the guide was very informative. We learned a lot more about Elvis on this tour than we did when he was alive. I also saw him when he was in Lake Tahoe. My friends and I saw him on the Ed Sullivan Show back in the day.

• Information & Tips

Where Rock & Roll was born! Home of Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Roy Orbison, Sam Phillips and more!

The Sun Sound began when Sam Phillips launched his record company in February of 1952. He named it Sun Records as a sign of his perpetual optimism: a new day and a new beginning. Sam rented a small space at 706 Union Avenue for his own all-purpose studio. The label was launched amid a growing number of independent labels. In a short while Sun gained the reputation throughout Memphis as a label that treated local artists with respect and honesty. Sam provided a non-critical, spontaneous environment that invited creativity and vision.

As a businessman, Phillips was patient and willing to listen to almost anyone who came in off the street to record. Memphis was a happy home to a diverse musical scene: gospel, blues, hillbilly, country, boogie, and western swing. Taking advantage of this range of talent, there were no style limitations at the label. In one form or another Sun recorded them all.

Discovering the king

Then in 1954 Sam found Elvis Presley, an artist who could perform with the excitement, unpredictability and energy of a blues artist but could reach across regional, musical and racial barriers.

He helped form the beginnings of the Sun Sound by infusing Country music with R&B. Elvis’s bright star attracted even more ground-breaking talent to the Sun galaxy. Listed among his contemporaries and lab mates were Johnny Cash, the inimitable Jerry Lee Lewis, and the “Rockin’ Guitar Man”, Carl Perkins. These four soon became known as the Million Dollar Quartet. Right behind them came Roy Orbison, Charlie Rich, Bill Justis, Harold Jenkins (a.k.a. Conway Twitty) and other equally memorable musical talents. All eventually sold on Pop, R&B and Country charts and grew to international fame.

Rockabilly became the major evolution in the Sun Sound. Lyrically it was bold; musically it was sparse; but it moved. In the 1950’s Country music rarely used drums that were so vital to jazz, blues, and jump bands. In fact, drums were prohibited on stage at the Grand Ole Opry. However, Rockabilly drums played an essential role in driving teens across the nation to become enamored with the Rockabilly movement and the revolutionary Sun Sound. Once again, Sun was able to break new ground recording music of unparalleled diversity in an incubator of creativity.

Inherent in the music of Sun is a vibrancy that survives to this day. Sincere, passionate music. Music that has stood the test of time. It is music that has reached across race, age and gender boundaries. It reflects the diversity and vision of the talent that recorded on the Sun label, and indeed, American popular culture itself.

Elvis Presley

Born on this day, Arthur ‘Big Boy’ Crudup blues artist. Wrote Elvis’ hit ‘That’s All Right (Mama). He died of a stroke on 28th March 1974, aged 69.

Born on this day, Smiley Lewis, R&B singer. Wrote ‘One Night’ covered by Elvis Presley and ‘I Hear You Knocking’ 1955 US No.2 for Gale Storm & UK No.1 & US No.2 for Dave Edmunds’. Lewis died on 20th October, 1966.

Sam Phillips

Sam Phillips, the founder of Sun Records, was born on this day in Florence, Alabama.

Johnny Cash

Johnny Cash, The Man in Black, was born on this day in Kingsland, Arkansas.

Carl Perkins

Carl Perkins, The King of Rockabilly, was born on this day in Tiptonville, Tennessee.

Elvis Presley, the King of Rock ‘N Roll, was born this day in Tupelo, Mississippi.

Jerry Lee Lewis

Jerry Lee Lewis, The Killer, was born this day in Ferriday, Louisiana.

Sam worked as a disc jockey at WLAY in Muscle Shoals, Alabama before moving to Memphis.

Sam Phillips moves to Memphis, taking a job as an announcer and maintenance and broadcast engineer at WREC.

Elvis Presley made his first ever-public appearance in a talent contest at the Mississippi Alabama Dairy Show singing ‘Old Shep’, Elvis was 10 years old at the time and came in second place.

Sam Phillips signs a lease on a storefront at 706 Union Avenue in Memphis. It will open as Memphis Recording Service on January 3, 1950.

Sam Phillips opens Memphis Recording Service at 706 Union Avenue. He begins recording several local blues artists, including B.B. King, Howlin’ Wolf and James Cotton.

Jackie Brenston and His Delta Cats record was released under, Chicago based, Chess Records. “Rocket 88” is considered the first ever Rock ‘N Roll record and was recorded by Sam Phillips.

Jackie Brenston and His Delta Cats album reached the top of the R&B charts.

Launch of Sun Record Company

Elvis Presley graduated from LC Hulmes High School in Memphis; his graduation photo shows him to have a split curl in the middle of his forehead, later to become his trademark.

Elvis Presley made his first ever recording when he paid $4 at the Memphis Recording Service singing two songs, ‘My Happiness’ and ‘That’s When Your Heartaches Begin’.

Elvis Presley made his second visit to the Memphis recording service and cut two songs onto a 10 acetate, ‘Casual Love Affair ‘and ‘I’ll Never Stand In Your Way’. Studio boss Sam Phillips asked Presley to leave his phone number.

Working together for the first time in a recording studio with Scotty Moore and Bill Black, Elvis Presley fools around during a break with an up-tempo version of ‘That’s All Right.’ Producer Sam Phillips has them repeat the jam and records it. It became Presley’s first release on Sun Records.

Producer Sam Phillips took an acetate recording of Elvis Presley singing ‘That’s All Right’ to Memphis radio station WHBQ DJ Dewey Phillips. He played the song just after 9:30 that evening, the phone lines lit up asking the DJ to play the song again.

19 year old Elvis Presley signed a recording contract with Sun Records. He also gave in his notice at his day job at The Crown Electric Company. Sam Phillips from Sun Records originally wanted to use the 19 year old to make demos of songs meant for other artists, but soon realized that here was the man who could bridge the gap between white and black performances.

Sun Records released the first Elvis Presley single ‘That’s All Right / Blue Moon Of Kentucky’ which made the local Memphis chart.

The Blue Moon Boys made their live debut appearing of a flatbed truck outside a new drug store in Memphis. The band line up was Elvis Presley, Scotty Moore and Bill Black. The name was taken from a song they had recorded just 2 weeks previously, ‘Blue Moon of Kentucky.’

The first press interview with 19-year-old Elvis Presley was published in the ‘Memphis Press- Scimitar’.

Johnny Cash married Vivian Liberto at St Ann’s Catholic Church in Memphis. Cash had plans of becoming a Memphis appliance salesman, he instead formed a band with Luther Perkins and Marshall Grant, and was signed to Sun Records a year later.

Elvis Presley made his TV debut when he appeared on the weekend show ‘Louisiana Hayride’ on KWKH TV.

Elvis Presley signed a management contract with Colonel Tom Parker. Parker had previously managed the ‘Great Parker Pony Circus’ with one of the acts being a troupe of dancing chickens.

Movie Magg’ and ‘Turn Around’ were released on Flip Records, a subsidiary of Sun Records. They were recorded at Sun Studios but Sam Phillips did not want to release it on Sun Records because he did not want two Sun artists targeting the same audience (Perkins and Presley). Perkins wrote ‘Movie Magg’ at the age of thirteen and was inspired from going to the movies on the weekends with his girlfriend, Maggie. Perkins didn’t have a car to drive so they rode on the back of his mule named, Becky.

On tour with Hank Snow’s All Star Jamboree, Elvis Presley played three shows at the Municipal Auditorium in New Orleans, Louisiana. Sun Records had just released Elvis’ fourth single, ‘Baby, Let’s Play House.’

Billy The Kid Emerson

“Red Hot”, written and recorded by Billy “The Kid” Emerson, was recorded at Sun Records on this day. It was later covered by Billy Lee Riley in January 1957 and released in September 1957 and landed at #277 on the charts.

Sun Records releases Johnny Cash’s first single “Cry! Cry! Cry!” Which becomes a top 15 Country hit.

Sun Records released ‘I Forgot To Remember To Forget’ by Elvis Presley which failed to make the pop chart but became a US country No.1.

Sun Records released ‘Let The Jukebox Keep On Playing’ by Carl Perkins.

Sam launched the radio station WHER radio station which would be the first all female radio station in the United States.

Elvis Presley was voted the most promising new country & western artist by Billboard magazine.

RCA Records purchased Elvis Presley’s recording contract from Sam Phillips at Sun Records for an unprecedented sum of $35,000.

During a gig, Perkins noticed a couple dancing near his stage and between songs heard a man’s stern voice go, “uh-uh, don’t step on my suedes!” Perkins noticed that the man was wearing blue suede shoes with a scuff mark on one. Perkins thought to himself, “Good gracious, a pretty little thing like that and all he can think about is his blue suede shoes.” Prior to this night, Johnny Cash introduced the idea of a “blue suede shoe” song to Perkins and his response to Cash was, “I don’t know anything about shoes. How can I write a song about shoes?” However, this incident sparked Perkins to get work on this song. He began writing it out as a nursey rhyme but settling on boogie rhythm. The lyrics, “Well, it’s one for the money… Two for the show… Three to get ready… Now go, man, go!” were sung and Perkins wrote the rest of the song on a brown paper potato sack titling is as “Blue Swade.” Perkins completed the song on December 17, 1955 and recorded it on December 19, 1955 for Sun Records.

“Folsom Prison Blues” was released and climbed to No.4 on the Country charts.

Phillips, who had begun recording Perkins in late 1954, told Perkins, “Carl Perkins, you’re my rockabilly cat now.”

Perkins recorded the song, ‘Blue Suede Shoes’ for Sun Records. Sam Phillips convinced Perkins to change the lyrics from “go, boy, go” to “go, cat, go” during the second take of the song. The rock ‘n’ roll classic became a US No.2 & UK No.10 hit for Perkins in 1956, and has been covered by many acts including Elvis Presley and John Lennon.

Elvis Presley made his first recordings for RCA Records at The Methodist television, radio & TV Studios in Nashville. ‘Heartbreak Hotel’ was one of the songs recorded during this session.

Elvis Presley started recording what would be his first album at RCA’s New York Studios. Songs recorded included his version the Carl Perkins song ‘Blue Suede Shoes’.

Elvis Presley appeared on American TV’s ‘Stage Show’ and performed ‘Heartbreak Hotel’ and ‘Blue Suede Shoes.’

Elvis Presley had his first national hit when ‘I Forgot To Remember To Forget’ went to No.1 on the Billboard Country & Western chart. The song was recorded by Sam Phillips and originally released on Sun Records.

RCA Records placed a half page ad in Billboard Magazine claiming that Elvis Presley was ‘the new singing rage.’

RCA Records issued the first album and extended play releases by Elvis Presley.

With Sun Record’s first smash hit, “Blue Suede Shoes,” Perkins is the first artist to top all three Billboard charts: Rhythm & Blues, Country, and Pop.

Roy Orbison

Roy Orbison and the Teen Kings arrived in Memphis to record for Sun Records.

Go Go Go’, the B side to “Ooby Dooby’ was recorded. This was the first song written by Roy Orbison. Due to financial troubles and a lack of royalties, Sam Phillips eventually bought out all Roy’s songs on Sun Records and placed his name under songwriter, although Roy was the actual songwriter. This was later released by Jerry Lee Lewis and Ricky Nelson under the title, ‘Down The Line’.

Johnny Cash’s “I Walk the Line” was released. The song topped the US Billboard Country chart and hit No.17 on the Pop charts.

Elvis Presley scored his first US No.1 single and album when ‘Heartbreak Hotel’ went to the top of the charts. His debut album also went to No.1.

Sun Records

19 year old Jerry Lee Lewis arrived at Sun Records hoping for an audition, only to find that owner Sam Phillips was on vacation in Florida. Jerry Lee recorded some demos that Phillips would hear when he returned.

Billy Lee Riley

Billy Lee Riley recorded “Trouble Bound” for Jack Clement and Slim Wallace. Sam Phillips obtained the rights and he released “Trouble Bound” b/w “Rock With Me Baby” on Sun Records.

The so-called ‘Million Dollar Quartet’ impromptu jam session took place at Sun Studios in Memphis with Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, Johnny Cash and Carl Perkins.

Billy Lee Riley’s first hit, “Flyin’ Saucers Rock and Roll” b/w “I Want You Baby” was released.

“There You Go” hits no. 1

Elvis Presley purchased the stately mansion “Graceland” in Whitehaven, Memphis. He paid $102,500 (£60,295) for the property, which had previously been used by the Graceland Christian Church.

“Whole Lotta Shakin’ Going On” was released, hitting No. 3 in the US and No. 8 in the UK charts.

“Red Hot” b/w “Pearly Lee” was released.

Sun Records released ‘Great Balls Of Fire’, by Jerry Lee Lewis. The single went on to sell over five million copies worldwide, a No.1 in the UK & No.2 in the US.

Elvis Presley had his draft notice served on him for the US Army. He went on to join the 32nd Tank Battalion third Armor Corps based in Germany.

Johnny Cash played a free concert for the inmates of San Quentin Prison, California.

The Dixie Cups

Chapel of Love charted at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 knocking The Beatles out of the number one spot and remained at the top for three weeks.

Iko Iko is released as a single by the Dixies and charts to #20

The Beatles met Elvis Presley for the first and only time when they went to his rented house in Bel Air California. They played together into the early hours jamming along to records.

Elvis Presley donated a Rolls Royce to a Hollywood women’s charity, which raised $35,000.

Jeannie C. Riley

Harper Valley PTA, written by Tom T. Hall is released and immediately goes to top both the Billboard Hot 100 and Hot Country Song charts, marking Riley’s success as an overnight sensation 1968 Jeannie C. Riley Riley is nominated for 2 Grammys, Record of the Year, Best New Artist, and wins Best Female Country Vocal performance for Harper Valley PTA.” She was also is nominated for two CMA Awards, Album of the Year and Female Vocalist of the Year, and wins Single of the Year also for “Harper Valley PTA.”

Shelby Singleton acquired the Sun Records catalog from Sam Phillips. He then moved the label to Nashville, TN where it has been operating since alongside sister labels SSS International, Plantation, Red Bird, Blue Cat, Silver Fox, and more.

Jeannie C. Riley special guests on “The Johnny Cash Show” where she sings “There Was A Time” and performs a duet with Cash for “Bad News Travels”

Riley becomes first female vocalist to have her own major network variety special, Harper Valley U.S.A.

The Dixie Cups, Ad Libs, etc

Shelby Singleton acquired the Red Bird and Blue Cat labels in October of 1969. Red Bird Records is home of smash hits such as The Dixie Cups “Chapel of Love” and The Ad Libs “Boy from New York City”.

Jeannie C. Riley is nominated for Grammy Award, Best Female Country Vocal Performane for “The Back Side of Dallas.” Is also nominated for a CMA Award, Female Vocalist of the Year

One of Perkins’ TV appearances with Cash was on the popular country series Hee Haw.

Based off of Jeannie C. Riley’s most iconic song, the film Harper Valley PTA is released, later turns into a televison series.

Sam Phillips was part of the first group inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. He was also the first non-performer inducted.

George Harrison, Eric Clapton, Dave Edmunds, Lee Rocker, Rosanne Cash and Ringo Starr appeared with him on stage for a television special, Blue Suede Shoes: A Rockabilly Session, which was taped live at the Limehouse Studios in London. The show aired this day. Perkins performed 16 songs, with two encores, in an extraordinary performance.

Roy Orbison died of a heart attack at the age of 52. He had an impressively busy schedule at this time, but fortunately spent his last day flying model airplanes with his sons and ate dinner at his mother’s home.

Sam Phillips received a Grammy Trustees Award for lifetime achievement.

The hit song, “Chapel of Love” airs in the movie Father of the Bride.

The US Postal Service issued a set of commemorative stamps to celebrate pop music legends. The stamps included Elvis Presley, Bill Haley, Buddy Holly, Otis Redding, Ritchie Valens, Clyde McPhatter and Dinah Washington.

Sam Phillips was inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame.

Carl Perkins’ battle with throat cancer comes to an end as he dies at the age of 65. Paul McCartney once said “If there were no Carl Perkins, there would be no Beatles.”

An all star tribute to singer/songwriter Johnny Cash took place in New York City with Sheryl Crow, Chris Isaak and U2 all performing for the TV special.

Sam Phillips was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame.

Sam Phillips the founder of Sun Records and studio died of respiratory failure at the age of 80. Phillips changed the face of American music recording Elvis Presley, Carl Perkins, Ike Turner, B.B. King, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and many more legends.

Johnny Cash, US singer songwriter died of respiratory failure aged 71. Had the 1969 US No.2 & UK No.4 single ‘A Boy Named Sue’, plus 11 other US Top 40 singles. Cash also had his own US TV show in late 60’s early 70’s.

Carl Perkins’ song “Blue Suede Shoes” was chosen for preservation by the US Library of Congress.

The Dixie Cups are induced into the the Lousiana Music Hall of Fame.

Walk the Line, the film about the life of singer Johnny Cash, was voted the greatest music biopic in a poll. The film starred Joaquin Phoenix and Reese Witherspoon as Cash and his wife June Carter as the country stars and won the actress an Oscar in 2006. It was followed by rapper Eminem’s 8 Mile, with Mozart’s’ life story Amadeus next and Ray, starring Jamie Foxx as musician Ray Charles, at number four. The most recent film in the top 10 was Joy Division biopic Control.

The US Postal Service honors music visionary Johnny Cash by using his photograph on a limited edition stamp.

Sun Records is acquired by music industry powerhouse, Primary Wave. A new era of honoring the Sun legacy begins.

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THE HISTORY

Located in the Heart of Music City beside the Johnny Cash Museum, Sun Diner Nashville offers southern hospitality and gourmet cuisine day and night.  Our specially designed menu compliments the unique interior that celebrates Sun Records’ legendary artists we have recognized for decades.

The Sun Records sound was a fusion of rock & roll and country music (or hillbilly, as it was called in the 50’s) that was labeled rockabilly.    The Sun sound was exemplified by early Sun recordings made by Elvis Presley, Carl Perkins, Jerry Lee Lewis, Johnny Cash and Roy Orbison.

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Southern hospitality, delicious gourmet cuisine and warm coffee served day and night. Take a look at Nashville’s unique interior that celebrates Sun Records’ legendary artists that the world has recognized for decades.

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• OPEN SUNDAY - THURSDAY • 7 AM – 3 PM • OPEN FRIDAY - SATURDAY • 7 AM – 10 PM

• OPEN DAILY • 7 AM

Although we do not accept reservations, we are a walk-up friendly venue with a host team that accommodates all guests in a timely manner.

107 3rd Ave. S, Nashville, TN

646 Parkway Gatlinburg, TN