Shaped by the mighty Mississippi and the soulful spirit of the Delta, the West Memphis story took off when it officially became a city in 1927. Known for its deep roots in blues, rockabilly and gospel music, West Memphis played a key role in the early careers of legendary musicians who would shape American sound. Highway 61 — the famed "Blues Highway" — runs right through the city, carrying with it decades of musical history.
During the mid-century, the city boomed with industry, nightlife and entertainment. Joints like Club Ebony and the Plantation Inn became legendary stops for artists like B.B. King, Howlin’ Wolf and Ike Turner. West Memphis wasn't just a neighbor to Memphis — it was a scene of its own.
Today, the city continues to honor its past while looking ahead. From the restored riverfront and trail systems to the thriving Southland Casino Hotel, West Memphis remains a place where heritage meets momentum. Whether you're here for a visit or a lifetime, the city’s story is one you’ll feel from the moment you arrive.
Riverfront Roots
Before there was a city, there was the river. The Mississippi River has always been the lifeblood of West Memphis — shaping its landscape, economy and identity long before the city was founded in 1927. For centuries, the river provided transportation, trade and a gathering place for indigenous communities and early settlers who recognized the power and potential of this natural highway.
In the late 1890s and early 1900s, the West Memphis riverfront was a bustling zone for timber and river commerce. Logging and agriculture thrived thanks to the river’s reach. Goods moved freely between Arkansas, Tennessee and down to New Orleans making West Memphis a critical node in the Delta’s growing economy.
Before bridges connected the two states, ferries were the primary link between West Memphis and Memphis. The riverfront bustled with travelers, wagons and cargo moving across the Mississippi. But the river was also unpredictable. Flooding was a constant threat with devastating impacts in the early 20th century, including the Great Flood of 1927, which deeply shaped regional infrastructure and resilience.
The West Memphis riverfront wasn’t just an economic lifeline — it was a cultural one. As Black families and workers settled in the area during the Great Migration, the river became the backdrop to a rich musical heritage. It’s said that the blues “followed the river,” and West Memphis played a role in that journey. Its proximity to Memphis and Highway 61 helped shape the sounds that would change American music forever.
Like many riverfront towns, West Memphis experienced a decline in river-based commerce after the rise of highways and railroads. For decades, the waterfront was underutilized — a quiet witness to the city’s growth inland. But today, the story is changing. With projects like Ducks Unlimited Park, Big River Crossing, Big River Trail and renewed investment in public spaces, West Memphis is bringing its riverfront back to life — celebrating its heritage while shaping a vibrant future.
Musical Heritage
Long before the world knew the names B.B. King, Howlin’ Wolf or Ike Turner, they were cutting their teeth right here — in the juke joints, clubs and radio stations of West Memphis. Just across the river from Beale Street, West Memphis became a critical player in the development of Delta blues, rockabilly, soul and early rock 'n' roll.
In the 1940s and ‘50s, clubs like The Plantation Inn and Club Ebony weren’t just hotspots. They were institutions. The Plantation Inn, operated by the legendary Sunbeam Mitchell, became a training ground for young musicians who would go on to change music forever. Acts like B.B. King, Bobby "Blue" Bland and Johnny Cash all passed through or were influenced by the vibrant West Memphis scene. In 1951, Ike Turner and his band — The Kings of Rhythm — recorded “Rocket 88” in nearby Memphis with Sam Phillips. Many historians call it the first rock ’n’ roll record. But the band's roots? West Memphis. That signature blend of blues, swing and rhythm came straight from the city’s streets and clubs.
One of the city’s biggest musical contributions came through the airwaves. Based in West Memphis, KWEM Radio helped launch the careers of icons like Howlin’ Wolf, Ike Turner and even a young Elvis Presley. Before the slick studios and fame, it was raw talent broadcast across the Delta, reaching the ears of the curious, the inspired and the soon-to-be-famous.
Today, the spirit of West Memphis music lives in local performances, regional festivals, and the echoes of a scene that helped shape the soundtrack of America. Whether you're a music buff, a history lover or just looking for soul with every step, West Memphis plays on.
Shaping West Memphis
From civic founders and cultural icons to business pioneers and musical legends, here’s a curated list of key figures in West Memphis history.
Late 1800s – Early 1900s
Captain Benjamin Boswell, Ferry Operator & River Connector
Before bridges, Boswell’s ferry service linked West Memphis to Memphis, helping establish the city’s riverfront as a vital transportation and trade hub.
Founding of West Memphis – 1927
Robert E. Lee Eubanks, City Founder & Developer
Led the incorporation of West Memphis in 1927 and helped shape its early infrastructure, promoting civic pride and economic opportunity.
1930s – 1940s
J.W. “Jake” Winn, Railroad Advocate
Worked to expand freight and rail service through the city, boosting job growth and solidifying West Memphis as a key player in regional logistics.
1940s – 1950s
Howlin’ Wolf (Chester Arthur Burnett), Blues Legend
Launched his music career via KWEM Radio in West Memphis. His Delta blues sound helped define an era — and inspired a global movement.
Sam Phillips, Radio Broadcaster & Founder of Sun Records
Worked at KWEM Radio in West Memphis before launching Sun Records. He discovered and produced music icons like Elvis Presley, B.B. King, and Johnny Cash.
1956
Founders of Southland Greyhound Park, Tourism & Economic Boosters
Brought major entertainment and tourism to West Memphis with the opening of Southland, a destination that continues to drive the city’s economy.
2010s – Present
Big River Trail & Crossing Partners, Modern-Day Visionaries
A coalition of city officials, nonprofits, and planners developed the Big River Trail and Crossing — reconnecting West Memphis with the river and creating a hub for outdoor recreation and tourism.