Mark Parsell and his live music performance venue South Main Sounds (SMS) in Memphis - is known not just in Memphis , but also attracts artists from across the USA and internationally too to his Downtown location!
He is also a local concert promoter booking for various venues in addition to SMS including: Central BBQ , Central Station, BarWare, Elwoods Shack and Memphis Famers Market.
He recounts the early days:
“It was a cold January night in 2015 when the first songwriter night was scheduled to happen. We had no idea how many people would show up to see the eight esteemed artists we had picked for this inaugural event. In fact, we hadn't rented the space yet and don't remember if the heat was actually functioning.
They showed up, first a few musicians, then a few fans, then more musicians then a roomful of people and bam! We seemed to have something that people were interested in. South Main Sounds has since become a haven for songwriters to try out new or old songs in front of peers, family, friends and those stopping by out of curiosity.”
Mark’s motivation has been driven by watching how certain artists have attained amazing recognition for their art: notably Ashley McBryde - booked by Mark to play SMS and Memphis Farmers Market - and a few years later playing Grand Ole Opry with a Grammy nomination!
The inspiration of Billy Block-the musician,TV and radio personality - known as the “Godfather of Americana”,has been another pivotal influence in making Mark do what he does.
Giving younger artists a platform regardless of musical genre, to get a start and get some live gig experience has been a driving force - which is admirable and to be applauded !
Musicians come from Nashville and beyond to play SMS Memphis.
Recently Mark hosted respected songwriter Jim Lauderdale.
Additionally, Mark works with venues in other areas to promote Memphis artists to tour there.
After the past 3 years in a challenging post-COVID live music scene ,2024 will bring more shows (some ticketed) eg. Memphis songwriting legend and performer Van Duren and Madaline Collins on Feb 10th.
Typically there are about 5 shows per month at SMS.
Usually there is no cover at SMS - but tipping the performers and buying their music merch is highly recommended - as there is also a record store under the same roof!
There is a new performance and production studio space nearing completion in the basement of SMS - news of this to follow.
Mark works behind the scenes and is extremely modest - but is of enormous significance for promoting original artists in Memphis and beyond!
More info here:
https://southmainsounds.com/home