Memphis is ready to take the stage in Wingham
BY SCOTT STEPHENSON
Not a lot of 10-year-olds already have a stage persona, but Memphis isn’t just any 10-year-old - he’s Huron County’s youngest singing cowboy.
The classic country gentleman first gained widespread recognition at last year’s Barn Dance Jamboree in Blyth, when he was still only nine years old. At the afternoon open mic, he impressed the Barn Dance Band so much with his song stylings that he was invited back to perform with them that night for the big show, where he became an instant favourite with the crowd. Memphis was kind enough to sit down with The Citizen ahead of his upcoming matinee performance at the Wingham Columbus Centre, which will be happening on Sunday, March 10. The show’s theme is “Nashville Opry” and will also feature classic country music from Sue Weber, Randy Satchell and Richard Marier.
Since his big debut, Memphis has been singing everywhere from Kincardine to Lucan. He’s also appeared on the stage of some of the area’s most venerable of rural venues, from Wingham’s Town Hall Theatre to the Purple Hills Country Hall in Thorndale. Being called up on stage by George Taylor to sing at Purple Hills has been a career highlight so far. “It was so cool performing there,” he recalled.
He’s also opened for Canadian music legends like George Fox and Jamie Warren, and will soon be performing in Wingham with Georgette Jones. Jones’ show in Wingham is the only Canadian stop on the singing scion’s current tour, which is perhaps a nod to the town’s important position in the history of country music.
Beyond his singing abilities, one of the remarkable things about seeing Memphis perform is how at ease he is on stage. “I’m just happy and glad to be up there talking to all those people,” he explained. “I have a little shake in my spine before I start singing, but then I’m just excited!” Everywhere he goes, crowds really react to the tiny titan in the black cowboy hat. He’s even made an impression on urban audiences, having recently brought his talents to the Richmond Tavern in London, Ontario.
While most of his classmates may not have the same appreciation for Buck Owens and David Ball as Memphis has, he just hears some special kind of magic in that old-time music. He’s seen firsthand the way it still brings so much joy to fans. “Country music just gets you going. It makes you happy, and it makes a grandma go from sad to happy. That’s what makes it so special.” While he’s known for singing some pretty deep cuts, Memphis has also been known to sing an Elvis song on occasion. Even though his musical career and school keeps his schedule pretty full, he still finds time to relax with a little Fortnite or some football.
Memphis also plays the harmonica, which came as a delightful surprise to his proud parents, Natasha and Richard. Both musicians themselves, it makes sense to them that their youngest son would be of a musical mind, but neither of them plays harmonica. He just taught himself one day a few years ago. “He’s gone through three cases of harmonicas already,” Natasha pointed out. Both his parents are tremendously proud of their son’s talents and work ethic. “I love seeing this powerful little guy who just has his own identity,” remarked Richard.
When he’s not on stage, he keeps developing his vocal skills by attending jams all over Huron County, including the Bluewater Village Jam in Goderich, which is frequented by members of his newly-formed back-up band, Shelby County. He has also been singing some songs for local radio stations. “I like the exposure of singing for radio stations. I just want to get out, and have more people see who I am.”
So, if you’re an old-time music fan or just classic country curious, check out Memphis at the Nashville Opry show at the Wingham Columbus Centre on Sunday, March 10. Reserve tickets by calling Sue at 519-357-1270.