THE R&B CLUB DISCUSSED THE LEGACY OF STAX RECORDS

The R&B Club returns to Songbyrd Music House for a deep-dive discussion on Stax Records, the legendary Memphis label whose “Memphis Sound” blended blues, funk, and gospel into soul music that defined an era. Operating from a former movie theater in South Memphis, Stax nurtured a roster that included Isaac Hayes, Otis Redding, The Dramatics, The Staples Singers, Booker T. & the M.G.’s, Carla Thomas, and David Porter. The event will explore how the label shaped R&B’s progression while also influencing culture beyond music—including the landmark 1972 Wattstax festival. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the story, this gathering offers a chance to revisit the label’s impact on one of America’s most consequential cities.

When: Sunday, July 12, 2026, at 12:00 PM (doors open at 12:00 PM).
Showtimes: The discussion begins at the door time of 12:00 PM; no separate showtime is listed.
Tickets: $15 in advance, $20 at the door (if available).
Lineup: The evening focuses on Stax artists including Isaac Hayes, Otis Redding, Booker T. & the M.G.’s, The Dramatics, The Staples Singers, Carla Thomas, and David Porter.
Run time: Not specified; expect a presentation and conversation typical of a book-club-style meetup.
Ages: All ages are welcome.
Venue: Songbyrd Music House, 540 Penn Street NE, Washington, DC.
Note: The R&B Club, founded in 2018, operates as a musical book club, gathering regularly to examine the influence of R&B music. Follow them on social media at @therandbclubdc for updates.