Founded in 2006 by Memphis historian Bill Patton, Backbeat Tours turns sightseeing into a live show. Ride a nostalgic bus or stroll the streets while professional musicians play, sing, and share the stories that shaped Beale Stree...
Backbeat Tours delivers memorable experiences across Memphis with guides who clearly love what they do. Reviewers consistently praise the knowledge and personality of guides like Charlie, Sheena, Emily, and Mary, who bring the city's rich music history to life with live performances and engaging storytelling. The variety is impressive—from 90-minute Music Mojo tours to walking tours covering true crime and haunted history, plus longer experiences that bundle museums and Mississippi River cruises. Many families appreciate how educational yet entertaining these tours are, with one parent even counting it as a homeschool field trip. The tours provide an excellent orientation to Memphis, especially for first-timers trying to figure out what to prioritize during their stay. The live music element particularly resonates with visitors, who love singing along to classics while learning about the city's role in shaping American music. A couple practical notes: one reviewer mentioned the bus AC struggling on a hot day, and another felt the main tour focused less on Beale Street than expected. However, the overwhelming majority found the experiences worthwhile, with several visitors booking multiple tours during their Memphis stay.
Great tour! Our guide was not only a terrific musician, he was also super knowledgeable about the history and sights in town. My dog and my glass of bourbon were also allowed on the tour which was very nice!
scott diego
November 30, 2025
Great tour! Our guide was not only a terrific musician, he was also super knowledgeable about the history and sights in town. My dog and my glass of bourbon were also allowed on the tour which was very nice!
scott diego
November 30, 2025