Memphisforgotten

On June 14, 1986, Memphis wrestling fans got their first look at Bam Bam Bigelow when he made his Memphis Wrestling debut at the Mid-South Coliseum.

With his massive size, incredible athleticism, and trademark flame tattoos, Bigelow immediately stood out from the crowd. Long before becoming a household name in the WWF and headlining major events across the country, he was making an impression in one of wrestling’s most important territories.

Memphis Wrestling built its reputation by showcasing future stars, and Bam Bam Bigelow’s debut is another chapter in that legacy.

Were you there when Bam Bam first arrived in Memphis?

ROYAL BY NATURE

From 1969 to 1971, Johnny Cash hosted one of the biggest music programs in America. Every week, millions tuned in to watch performances from some of the era’s biggest names, including Bob Dylan, Ray Charles, Linda Ronstadt, Hank Williams Jr., and many more.

The show wasn’t limited to country music. It brought together artists from different genres and backgrounds, helping introduce audiences to music they might never have discovered otherwise.

On March 11, 1970, Johnny Cash welcomed Linda Ronstadt, Hank Williams Jr., and Memphis-raised singer O.C. Smith to the stage, creating another memorable chapter in television history.

For a few years, Johnny Cash wasn’t just one of America’s biggest recording artists he was one of its biggest television stars.

Who remembers watching The Johnny Cash Show?

📺 March 11, 1970

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Every September, Memphis became a destination for some of the loudest and fastest muscle cars in America.

The NMCA Flowmaster World Finals brought racers and car fans from across the country to Memphis International Motorsports Park during the 1990s. From heads-up drag racing to massive car shows and late-night cruises, the city turned into a horsepower capital for the weekend.

The location was significant because Memphis International Motorsports Park helped place Memphis on the national racing map, bringing major automotive events, tourism, and car culture to the city for decades.

This 1994 VHS collection captured an era when Memphis was heavily connected to the national muscle car scene.

📍 Memphis, Tennessee

Who remembers the drag racing days in Memphis?

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FM100 was part of everyday life in Memphis.

The station’s promo song “Memphis, I’m Coming Home To You” became a soundtrack for the city and is still remembered by many Memphians today.

📻 “My Radio’s Pickin’ Up FM100.”

Who remembers hearing this on the radio?

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#901

In 2013, Elton John sat down in Memphis for an exclusive interview discussing the city’s impact on music history. During the conversation, he spoke about Memphis legend Jack Ashford, Motown, tambourine rhythms, and the deep influence Memphis had on soul, funk, and rock music around the world.

From Stax to Motown connections, Memphis musicians helped shape records that changed music forever. Even global superstars like Elton John recognized the city’s influence and the talent that came out of the 901.

Who remembers this interview?

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Kingpin Skinny Pimp invited me to a private listening session for his upcoming album this Junt was too hard!!! From start to finish. This that old Skinny yall been waiting for!! 🔥

Y’all gone feel this one when it drops. Real Memphis energy all through the project.

Had the Gimisum Family, Zirk, Mac E, Lil Gin, Robinson Boyz family and more in the building. Nights like this remind you how deep Memphis music culture really runs.