MEET OUR PARTNERS
Mississippi, often hailed as the birthplace of America's music, offers visitors a rich tapestry of cultural heritage, from the legendary blues trails of Clarksdale to the vibrant coastal towns along the Gulf. Its deep-rooted musical traditions, historic landmarks, and warm Southern hospitality make it a compelling destination for travelers seeking authentic experiences. By partnering with Morgan Freeman's Symphonic Blues Experience, Mississippi proudly showcases its profound influence on global music and reaffirms its commitment to preserving and celebrating its unique cultural legacy.
Morgan Freeman’s Symphonic Blues Experience is proudly supported by Memphis Tourism, the official destination marketing organization for Memphis and Shelby County. Memphis Tourism helps amplify the city’s rich musical heritage—from the blues of Beale Street to the soul of Stax—by partnering with cultural experiences that celebrate its global influence. Their support ensures that the legacy of Memphis continues to inspire audiences across the country. Learn more about the city’s music, food, and culture.
Morgan Freeman’s Symphonic Blues Experience is honored to partner with Visit Clarksdale, the official tourism organization for Clarksdale, Mississippi—widely recognized as the "Home of the Blues." Clarksdale's rich musical heritage, vibrant cultural scene, and iconic landmarks like the Delta Blues Museum and the legendary Crossroads make it a pilgrimage site for blues enthusiasts worldwide. Visit Clarksdale plays a pivotal role in preserving and promoting this legacy, offering visitors an authentic glimpse into the birthplace of the blues.
Morgan Freeman’s Symphonic Blues Experience is proud to partner with the Crossroads Economic Partnership, a driving force behind Clarksdale, Mississippi’s economic revitalization and cultural preservation. As the city’s leading economic development and chamber organization, the Crossroads Economic Partnership fosters innovation, supports local businesses, and promotes Clarksdale’s rich musical heritage on a global stage. Their commitment to nurturing creative industries and honoring the Delta’s legacy makes them an ideal partner in bringing this transformative musical experience to life.
MEET OUR COLLABORATORS
-
DANNY ABRAHAM
PIANIST and VOCALIST
Danny Abraham is a contemporary Southern Gospel singer-songwriter known for his heartfelt lyrics and rich vocal delivery. His debut album, Don't Worry 'Bout Me, features all-original compositions performed alongside Nashville's finest musicians and was produced by acclaimed keyboardist Gordon Mote. Abraham's music reflects his deep faith and Southern roots, offering messages of hope and spiritual reflection.
-
WILLY BEARDEN
ARCHIVIST, WRITER and FILMMAKER
Willy Bearden is a Memphis-based author, filmmaker, and storyteller whose work captures the cultural and emotional landscapes of the American South. His memoir, Mississippi Hippie: A Life in 49 Pieces, offers a vivid, personal journey through the Mississippi Delta and 1970s Memphis, blending humor, pathos, and social insight. Bearden’s storytelling spans film, literature, and public history, making him a vital voice in preserving Southern heritage
-
MAUDE SCHUYLER CLAY
PHOTOGRAPHER
Maude Schuyler Clay is a renowned photographer celebrated for her evocative portraits of the Mississippi Delta. Schuyler Clay’s work, notably showcased in her books DELTA LAND and DELTA DOGS, captures the poetic stillness and layered histories of the Southern landscape, earning praise from The New York Times for finding "poetry in this slow, languorous countryscape." Her forthcoming book, THIS BEAUTIFUL WORLD, to be published by Steidl, continues her exploration of place, memory, and identity through photography.
-
ROYAL STUDIOS
Royal Studios, located in Memphis, Tennessee, is one of the oldest continuously operating recording studios in the world. Established in 1956 in a former movie theater, it became the home of Hi Records and the Hi Rhythm Section. Under the guidance of producer Willie Mitchell, Royal Studios produced iconic soul records for artists like Al Green, including the classic "Let's Stay Together." Today, the studio is managed by Mitchell's son, Lawrence "Boo" Mitchell, and continues to attract top talent, including Bruno Mars and John Mayer, maintaining its legacy in shaping American music.
-
STAX MUSIC ACADEMY
The Stax Music Academy, located in Memphis, Tennessee, is a premier after-school and summer music institute dedicated to nurturing the next generation of soul musicians. Established in 2000, the academy offers intensive, industry-centric music education combined with unique performance opportunities and creative youth development programming. Situated adjacent to the historic Stax Records site, the academy immerses students in the rich legacy of American soul music. Since its inception, Stax Music Academy has graduated over 4,000 students, with every high school senior since 2008 gaining college acceptance, many on full scholarships. The academy's students have performed at renowned venues such as the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Kennedy Center.
-
LUMIO
Lumio Studio is an immersive experience and film production company specializing in creating captivating environments and cinematic experiences. Their mission is to spark fascination with art and culture through innovative installations, exhibitions and films. Notable projects include Van Gogh Illuminated, King Tut Golden Tomb, NASA: Space Far Beyond, and commercial projects on behalf of Porsche, Nike, Samsung and more. Lumio blends storytelling, technology, and visual artistry to engage, inform and inspire audiences.
“
"A CAPTIVATING AND POWERFUL EXPERIENCE"
DR. AMY WILLIAMS
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, THE SAVANNAH PHILHARMONIC
“
"A TRIUMPHANT CELEBRATION OF AMERICAN MUSIC”
JOE CSIBI
HEAD OF ORCHESTRA AND CHORUS, IRELAND NATIONAL CONCERT HALL