Stax Music Academy Presents | A Century of Soul: Facing Our History

Stax Music Academy proudly presents its highly anticipated annual live show—a powerful, music-driven stage production that celebrates the legacy, resilience, and influence of Black music across generations.

About the Show

A Century of Soul: Facing Our History follows a young musician named Charles as he begins to discover his voice, his purpose, and the powerful history behind the music he loves. Guided by friends and family, Charles journeys through the sacred sounds of the Black church, the classroom, the skate rink, and the legendary streets of Memphis.

Through spirituals, blues, soul, and rhythm & blues, the story explores how music carries faith, struggle, love, joy, and identity across time. Featuring iconic songs, historical moments, and personal reflection. The journey culminates at home, where love and encouragement affirm a timeless truth: when you operate in your gift, it truly makes room for you.

What to Expect

• A high-energy, fully staged live performance
• Talented student musicians from Stax Music Academy
• Interactive Beat Garden stations available before and after the showcase
• Songwriting and Stax 101 highlight performances in the lobby before the show and during intermission
• A dynamic blend of storytelling, history, and live music
• A celebration of Memphis soul and Black musical traditions

Musical Highlights (Featuring music by):

Booker T. & the M.G.’s • Aretha Franklin • Otis Redding • Earth, Wind & Fire • B.B. King • Rufus Thomas • Whitney Houston • The Temptations • The Emotions • Frankie Beverly & Maze — plus an original student composition

Fan-favorite moments include selections like “Time Is Tight,” “Rock Steady,” “Fantasy,” “Shining Star,” and a joyous finale with “Before I Let Go.”

Ticket Information

Early Bird Tickets: $25 (available through February 16)
Week of Show & At the Door: $30

This is a family-friendly event and a must-see celebration of music, history, and youth artistry.

Join us for an unforgettable night honoring a century of soul—and the future carrying it forward.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

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Host or Publisher Stax Music Academy