The musical heritage of United States has been the influence of multi-ethic population who have performed in varied styles and accents from the mid-20th century till the modern day. America has been the birthplace of Rock n Roll, Pop, Blues and Soul in the early 1940s to 1960s from which countless other genres were derived such as hip-hop. America has seen some great artists some and go such as Madonna, Janis Joplin, Frank Sinatra, Elvis (Costello and Presley), Elton John, Billy Joel, Steven Tyler, Bob Dylan and many more than you can’t even begin to name! Nonetheless, there is a list of must visit cities in US that has to this day kept the traditional soul of music alive by their vintage record store cafes, theatres and music galleries.
Memphis
The largest city of Tennessee where the shadow of “The King” still menaces. The Graceland Mansion which was owned by Elvis “The King” Presley is also his burial. To this day, 41 years after the pop-rock singer’s death people come to pay homage to the deceased singer whose blues have rendered him immortal. At the East McLemore Avenue stands the Stax Museum which holds revolting exhibits such as vintage instruments, labels, costumes and records belonging to the Soul Music of America.
New York
New York has been the nurturing grounds to legendary artists. Bob Dylan commenced his otherworldly songs in the early sixties in folk taverns of Greenwich Village. The Blondies, Velvet Underground, Strokes and Talking Head all emerged from the streets of NYC. The National Museum of Jazz in New York is great storyteller of many legends, especially Charlie Parker. While, there are clubs in scattered parts of Manhattan where Dylan used to play that still play songs in tribute to man who showed us how to knock on heaven’s door.
Los Angeles
Los Angeles has a vast musical heritage that can be traced from hard rock Metallica and Guns N’ Roses to the rappers of Compton. The Rainbow Bar and Grill on Sunset Boulevard, West Hollywood has been the rathskeller for a multitude of heavy metal and hard rock bands. The stage has been warmed by prodigious icons including Axl Rose, The Hot Chili Peppers. While, the Troubadour on Santa Monica Boulevard has presented symbolic artists like Elton John and the Radiohead. Not to forget trips conducted to Compton, the origin of hip-hop and rappers like Easy-E, Dr. Dre and Ice Cube!