My favorite place on earth was Littlejohn's, a most happening boutique. When I needed to find that special gift, I would go in and snoop around. Christmas was a great time to go browsing at Littlejohn's and check out all their great stuff. I think this shop was an offshoot of John Simmon's other shops, where I also spent inordinate amounts of time as a child. I also loved Burkle's Bakery when it was on Overton Square and their wonderful brownies. And I got my Bowie, Mott the Hoople, James Gang and the first Lynyrd Skynyrd records at the Square's music shop. Heaven! I'm going to see Billy Joel this month in Anaheim; first saw him at Overton Square with my high school beau and his parents.

I can go back to before in became Overton Square. I lived on the corner where the French Quarter Inn is now. At that time there was Hill's Garage with a house attached to it where we lived. There was a drugstore and a Burkle's Bakery across the street where TGI Friday's is. This was in the sixties. My father was a photographer. There might be some pictures in his stuff - I
kept a bunch of old black and white negatives.

I enjoyed my years at Overton Square as one of the business owners, (The Candy Store" from 1973-1986. We made many friends that I will always remember. Thanks to all that patronized our family business. It was always a pleasure to work with Ben Woodson.

Does anyone remember this really cool boutique called Chelsey's or Chelsea's..
a really cool chick named Kay was the owner.

I bet Pam Guest would remember! If anyone remembers seeing her around the square..
she had a white David Bowie hair style, she was very pretty and most eclectic back then.

her name was Kay King and the store was named Chelsea Limited. Had an afgan dog.

I remember Pam Guest. She worked at the Hot Air Ballon as a waitress. I remember her brother also. I remember her because I was one of the original entertainers there. Lyle and Gene, The We Too

Does anyone rember a head shop called atlantis on Poplar? Boy do I it was across mthe street from the Taco Hell.

I remember Chelsea! Kay King and Linda Cannon. Kay got run over by a car walking her doggie. Shame. I miss that place.
I also remember Atlantis! They had that thing that was like a phone booth. You'd go in and sit with headphones on and the strobe lights would start going. It was wild! Best place to trip back then.

I was one of the orginal bartenders at Fridays. I started working Memorial Day weekend 1970. We worked all night and rode our motorcycles all day, a great time.
the orginal bartender were Vic Scarano,
Pat Scandlin, Nick Marinelli, Bob Donohure and myself.

After being released from the Navy in Memphis, I worked nights at Methodist Hosp. I seemed to find my way to Burkles for breakfast. On the weekends my group and I would always be sipping ouzo and chasing it with beer at the Hot Air Balloon and listen to the We Too which had two performers...Gene and Lyle.Pam was just the best waitress. We'd then sort of roam the square for drinks and women and finally make it to TGI Fridays for some supper. Jack

Overton Square...so many memories. It was my favorite hang out. Love the WE Too (love ya Gene). Took many friends there and made many friends there!

God, I wish I could go back to that time.

Heyyy remember getting a snoot full of Strohs Bohemian Fire Brewed beer and trying to negotiate your way down those very narrow and steep stairs at the Hot Air Balloon? Pam upstairs yelling at everyone it was closing time and time to go? Great times

It's great to hear from people who remember Overton Square as it was, and especially those who can remember Lyle and me at the Hot Air Ballon. Those were special times for me. (hey Dustie)

Bob "Dunk" Donahue became a lawyer as did Bobby Sabatini. Pam Guest married a guy named Billy Netterville and had a child then moved to Louisiana.

Anyone remember Harry "Smokey" Kennamer the Overton Square rent a cop? He never arrested a single person!

Lyle and Gene were the top of the line entertainers! Sam the bouncer kept them safe! Sam was only afraid of Pam and her buddy, Kathy Cecil!!!!

Where did the time go?

That's right. Sam Huey was the bouncer. A great guy. Had a black belt in one of the marshal arts. Very tough but fair. I do remember Harry the cop. Kathy Cecil was the daughter of the owner, Lester Cecil.
Thanks for the Top of the Line comment.

Hi Gene! Hope you are still making great music!
Re: Hot Air balloon
Remember "Roxy" the bartender? She got married and moved to Horseshoe Lake after running a used car lot in Frayser.

"Bridgett"? Went on to become a secretary to a law firm in Memphis and later moved to Oakland Tennessee to be a housewife and Mom.
....................................
To other's:
Kay King's dog was named "Tasha". Kay was married to Mike Brignardello, the musician. Her car was a chocolate brown 1978 Mercedes 450SCL which was always parked out in front of her store. Pam Guest had the dog's brother "Khyber".

Ken Crocker the doorman at TGI Friday's became an analyst for computer MPD.

Whatever happened to Jay Wells, Archie, David Aquadro, Craig Howard or Tim Lynch from TGI?

Halloween, New Years, Christmas and the snow guns, along with the ice skating rink in the middle of Madison! Very innocent and fun times.

Anyone remember Dick Tracy's Jailhouse?

Thanks for the info John. I remember Roxy and Bridgett. It's good to know they have moved on to good lives. I have not been making music for several years. Lyle is in Florida and still singing with a 1950's group. I have been employed at Purdue University for the past twenty years. I retired in March of 2008

My sister was a glam rocker in the 72-74 era and hung out with a girl named Sharon who was a groupie. I know they shopped at Chelsea for Mary Quant cosmetics and things. Any more info on this would be appreciated!

Thanks for ALL the posts. WE TOO, hot air balloon, fridays, and one of my personal favs the Cosmic Cowboy. Where did all the time go? I was in memphis not long ago and went to the square, i can still hear all the folks in the streets and the music coming from the clubs. Silky we had fun. Man i miss that time, miss it a bunch. Hugs to all those that made the square the best place in my memories. bent kent

Bent Kent:
You can find George Jeram, the original owner of Cosmic Cowboy, at a small liquor store at Summer and Stage Road. He is in good health and is doing well.

I am looking for U of M alumni who used to hang out at Overton Square for a history poject that I'm working on. Looking mainly at how prominent the Square was in the nightlife of students and the timeframes involved.

can anyone remember a bouncer at one of the clubs on Madison that was close to the diary, he was suppose to be the toughest one around until he was shot and killed.

Jim Wilson:
His name was Campbell Kennsinger. He was a legend at one time around the Memphis area bars.
I don't believe he was shot to death, but bled to death after being pushed through a sliding door glass window, during a fracas, at a local apartment party.
All in all he was a pretty square guy but would not back down. Fear never entered into his line of thinking. This may have actually led to his untimely demise.
You may be thinking of David McNamee who was shot to death by unknown persons at his residence.

I can’t believe I found this page!!
I had some good times there during the summer of 70 and loved the Cosmic Cowboy!!
I remember the cheeseburgers were on English muffins.
Oh… and the Tee-Shirts… they had the silhouette of a women smelling a rose with on hand and holding her breast in the other, a real classic (Wish I still had my mine).
We also did manage to close down the Hot Air Balloon a couple of times.
Thanks for the smiles and the memories all…

Larry

What a find, I'm shocked that this is just about it on such a really great place and time in Memphis History. This was truly the place to be at the time, great music, great drinks and good eats.... Friday's, the Public Eye, Solom Alfreds, and the treat of all entertainment was the We Too, featuring Gene and Lyle that had a sarcastic spin on on every tune they played, and God forbid that you had to go to the bath room or leave during their time on stage.... had to be the best ever at handling hecklers.... they left skinned!!!!

If anyone has a lead on where to find any recordings, I'd love to hear from them.

The always said that their 1st album sold 50,000 and if you didn't beleive them, that Lyle had 49,000 in the trunk of his car...... Don't know if they ever really produced shit, but they were the best duo ever. First and only time I've heard melody played on the bass and rythem played on a 12 string.... great harmony group.... hope to hear from anyone having leads to any potential recordings of their work...

Thanks,


Mike

I've just discovered this site and this page. Amazing stuff, here! Does anybody remember MONTAGE, a band that used to play Lafayette's in the '70s?

Later on, in the '80s, Detail played across the street at Rascal's. A couple of Montage folks were involved in Detail, too, and also had a band called Connexion for a while.

MONTAGE was signed to Capitol Records with Tommy Cogbill of American Studios in the early '70s, then released "Can't You See the Fire?" on the Arbett Record label.

Shoot yeah, I remember Montage. Great band. They had this one hot chick who sometimes played bass and sang weird lyrics I used to go to their performances just to see what she might say or do.

I remember her! Pure genius, and WAY before her time.

Gorgeous, too.

Hope she hasn't gotten rusty over the years.

Went by the monkier of "Dusty," if I'm not too wrong.

I don't remember a thing about Overton Square. Wish I did. But seriously, I do recall the day I arrived there as a hot cocktail waitress for Bojangles and that I wound up in New Orleans but between those years,it is all pretty fuzzy. One thing I can say for sure is I was not strange, I was just like you. Now I'm capable of reading that code in the image below.

What's really hard to remember is how nice Overton Square was in the 1970s. Till I saw the photos on this site, I'd forgotten. Where was Bojangles? I recall the name but not the location. Other than Katrina, I wish I'd ended up in N'Orleans! Now, let's see if I can read that crazy code and get this posted . . .

Bojangles was on the corner of Cooper and Monroe (I guess) or whatever the street was that ran parallel to Madison. I don't know if I could find it today but I recall walking about a block to Friday's. Fortunately my NOLA years were also in the 70's and it was like my twenties all ran together. Now, where's that code...no, can't read that one...flip..yeah I can read that one...

I'll check with some other folks our age and see exactly where Bojangles was. I remember the name, and I will probably remember having been there, once my brain gets jump-started. I do know for sure that there weren't any commercial spots in that area of Poplar (there still aren't), so maybe Bojangles was on Union. Lemme see!
Now, for that annoying, miniscule code . . .

Actually Bojangles was at Linden and Cooper on the northwest corner, before it burned down. It was called the Silver Dollar Palace at the time. As Bojangles,it had disco, replete with front and back bars, also a dining area with a fountain in the center. Freddy Alphonso owned it.
As Bojangles, they had the waitresses dressed in little brown outfits which drew a lot of crowds! It never went over too well because it was off the main square drag.

Thanks, John! I can't remember much about Bojangles. I have no idea why, except that we never played there . . . I don't think, anyway. Probably not if it was disco-oriented. I'll search my memory bank account. It's probably overdrawn.

I was thinking that it was on the west side of the street. Sounds like a nice place.

"Replete with front and back bars"! I love your wording!

Now for the little letters & numbers dance:

Seems to me that High Cotton was further south on Cooper. I remember bands such as "Delta" and "Creed" playing there. Delta did a great version of the Steely Dan song "My old school".
The main thing was that Mr. Peanut figure standing inside and those "Pong" video games in the back. If the bands were revved up you felt every note through you! You absolutely could not hear when you left the place. It was either the beer or the band.
For some odd reason when business got bad....the places went up in smoke!
This place reminded me of the old "Warehouse" at Jefferson and Danny Thomas. Live, loud, and good bands! You paid a cover to go inside and sit on the floor to listen and drink beer!

High Cotton . . . Ah, yes. That's what I was trying to remember. Even before Southern Creed, a band called Long Shot did. Eddie Long formed that band--years and years ago.
I remember that High Cotton did burn. I'd forgotten. Several clubs had fires, if I recall correctly.

A Long:
You might give this site a look see. These people played at one or another club in the Overton Square boundry.

http://www.stevecox.com/music/m-music.htm

I have to admit, FM-100 was the only alternative music radio station back then. Thanks to Grag Hamilton, Keith Hembrick and John Scott, wherever you guys are now!

Did anyone ever successfully steal a striped table cloth from TGI Friday's?

How about a backgammon(sic) set from Bombay Bicycle Club?

How about a full "Diver" glass from either Silky's before they went to the ugly paint cans?

Most importantly....Did anyone ever successfully survive the beatings doled out for walking out on a "tab" anywhere in Overton Square?

John Dwyer...... I hope that you are still checking this site for responses. Concerning the folks that you asked about; I'm an Air Operations Manager with FedEx, Archie works for FedEx in some kind of technical position, David Aquadro owns a dairy products distribution company, and Tim Lynch is doing well selling real estate. I heard from your cousin Bobby that you had retired from MPD and were teaching school somewhere.

Hi Craig! You were, and are, one of the greats from the Overton Square area. I did retire and it is twice now! No more school. Putting together more info from the Overton Square days, to submit to this site, as there is far more than one blog will allow.
Snow guns, pony rides, ice rinks in the middle of Madison. Looking for more photos on here too!

Who was the popular waiter from TGI Friday's, who was accidentally killed moving furniture? It was a freak accident involving a mattress falling out of a truck.
Every waiter and waitress in Memphis, showed up at Memphis Funeral Home on Union for the services. Bill was his first name.

Again, Craig, you were one of the greats in my memories of the Square!

Hello, John Dwyer.

We are putting together a Facebook page on a Memphis band called MONTAGE, who played Lafayette's Music Room a lot in the early 1970s. The band was together for abou 12 years & put out 2 records, the first recorded at the old American Studios on Chelsea (it's long been torn down). MONTAGE was signed to Tommy Cogbill's TRUMP record label, although Chips Moman also wanted to work with MONTAGE'S singers.

Should you find any information, old advertisements, or photos of MONTAGE, could you please let me know?

Thanks, and thanks for caring about Overton Square back in those days! Try telling you 21-year-old kid what it USED to be like!

AL

Im the Billy Netterville that Pam Guest married. Our daughter is 27 now and a very successful businessperson in Florida and Mississippi. Pam and i divorced but remain great friends. i remember John Dwyer well, what are you up to. Remember Kim Ciftci a policeman, i caught up with him a while ago. He is a preacher now!! Fantastic to read this, will check back later.

John, the quy who was killed was Bill something like Wiestermer, Pam called him wiskerwister, I am going to call Pam tomorrow to tell her about this site and im sure she will remember, we were there when he was killed. What ever happen to Greg Coleman.?

Hey Billy! Great to hear from you!! 27 years old!?! I remmeber when she was born!! Wow! Time flys! Got to be a stunner in looks!!!
Kim Ciftci was always a great person!
Greg retired a few years ago and moved to the Murfreesboro(sic) area.
He and Steve Bandura were partners down in the Square years ago.

Oh, and I eventually got a pet armadillo named "Whiskers!"

A.Long: Ran into a girl by the name of Sherry Shaver. She is supposed to get with me for some memory lane travel replete with pictures. Her Ex used to play in the Overton Square area years ago. I'll keep posted.

I forgot to ask:
Anyone have any information or remember "Julius Cheeser" the pizza place, or "Cleo's Veranda"?

A guy named Frank used to work in the front pizza area and a girl nick named "Mother Nature" was a waitress downstairs.

Also, wasn't there a topless joint that went in, but got ran off at the same location?

Hello, John.

Thanks for the info on Sherry Shaver. Hope she can conjure some memories, especially about Lafayette's.

YES, I do remember Julius Cheeser! Here's why. My friend Susan and I were taking her Chihuahua to Dr. Fred Opfer, the vet who was on the SW corner of Central and Parkway for years (the clinic's still there). This was back in the early 70s. Had to be.

Anyway, we were really rushing because "Puppy" had some serious complications after giving birth to a new litter. We were headed east on Madison, and suddenly . . . on our right (south side of Madison) was Julius Cheeser. There was a round shingle for a sign with the profile of a long-nosed rat wearing a Roman helmet and a stern, "I run this legion!" look on his face.

We both saw the sign at the same time. Vet emergency notwithstanding, we looked at each other and started laughing so hard we were in tears. Thank God we knew Dr. Opfer, because we still couldn't talk for laughing, even by the time we got to the clinic.

Man, I wish I had that sign!!!

I've got a friend in Gulfport who might remember Cleo's. I can't recall any topless joints. But then, I'm an old musician, and we were traveling a lot back then. I'll ask about the topless place, too.

Thanks again! And good luck going down memory lane.
A. Long

Now if I can only decipher this "code"

Hi...You-Guys...!!!! has anybody seen or heard from Kathy Cecil, Sandy Carter or Linda Cannon... OMG...!!! Overton Square-Great Memories....!!! I'm also looking for Sadie...!!! & Sierra Bandit. I moved back from Santa Monica, CA a couple of years ago & I live (Downtown-Memphis) in Harbor Town...I love love love hearing about the Overton Square days...I heard from Archie (TGIF Bouncer) on facebook... Also I'm still good friends with JW (Whitten)
he still works... with Jerry Lee Lewis

John Dwyer......
Send me an e-mail with your contact info and we can talk.......
wchoward@fedex.com

To: John Dwyer--John please send me an email when u get a chance, i would like to ask u some questions about Memphis and the people of the 70s, even what ur up to!! p.s.- Pam will probably kill me for leaking this, but she is presently one of several Memphis women being filmed for another one of those "Housewives of ........, reality series, called "Divas of Memphis".Should be a blast!!-Billy Netterville cwnett@yahoo.com

Man o man. Pam, do you remember Roach that was a nickname, of course). I worked at Chelsea Ltd. in the early/mid 70's & then later at TGIF.

I am still in touch with a bunch of TGIF folks. I am in touch with Linda. I still miss Kay. We were SO young.

No one would ever understand if they were not there...

What a blast from the past.The days of wine and roses and Q's. I worked at Fridas ,Trader Dicks, Alfreds, Bombay everywhere
I remember the White Owl, Serria, El Dorado and Gwynn.It was the best time .

I was just a kid that thought that I had died and gone to heaven back in 1971. Working at Fridays making more money then I ever had.Chasing after girls and doing all sort of things that I shouldn't.We had it made in the shade. We called it a decade of decadance and fun was has by most. Looking back at it I still see the faces the music the sorted things that were being done.Most of the people mentioned above I remember or know or knew.

I met my husband working at Fridays on the Square somewhere around 1983 , 84, something like that. His name is Chris Toma. His roommate was Tad Daniels. Anyone remember him or Olivia, Scooter, Scottie. I remember Jay Wells- how could I forget? Almost lost my job over him when he was manager. Was it Animal? What happened to these people. Robert Guy? Heard he became a lawyer; could it be true?

I worked with Chris and everyone else that you mentioned duirng the early 80's. I always thought very highly of Chris, please tell him that I said hello.

Interested in hearing from any of the old Bojangles crew. Sandy Cater, Hawk, Paul. Pam Guest you were a Ziggy Stardust supermodel. I used to be the DJ there after The Night Hawk. I loved that place, even Fred Alfonso. Those were the days.

Does anyone remember the name of the candy store? it had huge barrels of great candy! i loved going ice skating and eating ice cream at Swenson's! and remember the people dressed like Christmas carolers and chesnuts roasting on the open fires at Christmas?!

I think the stoer with the candy was Little Johns. So many great stores along that street!

A. Long or others:
Sherry was married to a guy named "Janzen" who played drums with several bands in this time period. She is writing down a few of the gigs and places.

Ruth:
The candy store was called just that "The Candy Shoppe". You should recall they also had an old time type photo shop next door where you could dress up in period costumes. Photos were done in sepia (black and white)
The candy was good but as high as a cat's back in price for the time.
Everyone:
The lady who lived in the white house next to Paulette's was Mrs. John W. Griffin. She grew prized roses. On the east side of her house she had a raised area, where she had buried all of her pets since she lived there! 17 in all from cats to dogs.
Anyone remember Darnell or Mike the doorman, at the original Silky's?

I LOVED the place to get your "old-timey" photo made! And had TOTALLY forgotten about it! Thanks for the memory and for the chuckle! Also, I think you are right...Either "The Candy Shop" or "Ye Olde Candy Shoppe". Loved their honey flavored candy in the barrels.

Remember the last band to play at the Godfather's on that New Year's Eve when it burnt to the ground? Afterwards it became Solomon Alfred's. It was the infamous Larry Raspberry & the High Steppers!!

Looking back, I'd have to say rocking out in Lafayettes Music Room was about the most fun I've ever had playing music. The audience was part of the show. It was always a family feeling, though few families would survive being so crazy!

Memphis has always been my favorite place to play and I'll keep the memories of those days close to my heart when I play The Delta Fair and Blues City Cafe over Labor Day weekend.

Come on down & join or re-join the family. Henry

John, I am George Jeram's sister-in-law. But, I was an original employee of The Looking Glass, hired by Mr. Touliatus as a cashier. Then I moved into the bar area as a cashier. This was 1970. Later Bobby Sabbatini hired me to work as a bar cashier at TGIF. I worked with all the guys, 6 months from the Grand Opening until 1972. Worked as a cashier at Lafayette's and then in '73 went to work for the Friday's corporation, opening a store in Houston. Well, the photo of the bartenders startles me as how you got it, because: I took it. That's Carnell Shane the head cook in the back, Nick, Phil The General Bowman, John Ball (died from a heart attack), Phil (laughing, can't recall his last name). Anyway, please contact me; I am curious as to why I don't remember you. Maybe it's just the name. I keep in touch with Rush Bowman, Frank Steed and Robert Smith (bartender at Huey's now)...seeing them all just before Thomas Boggs died last May. I'm back in Memphis now.

Janette:
The picture was put on here by the blog owner and not me, if you were referring to me.
I believe everyone who reads this thing will be very appreciative of you filling in some blanks on the names. Thank you!
I keep trying to find any pictures of the "Square" but no luck.
The big question I have is, what was inside the little room over the front door of Friday's?
Tell George hello for me! One of the greats!

I just found this site looking for any info on Soloman Alfred's. This is fun! The first bar I ever played was Yosemite Sam's in 1976 when I was 16. I was in a silly band called White Knight. I mainly remember all the blue drinks on the tables and Ronnie Capone sitting in the audience. He was a music legend. I'm forever grateful I got to play several times at Soloman Alfred's. That was the coolest bar in the coolest part of town in the 70's and 80's. Somebody mentioned Eddie Long's band and also Montage, Larry Rasberry, Snow, Hotel, The Bluebeats, etc. Maybe things just seem cooler in retrospect but I'm pretty sure Overton Square really was that cool. What about Squash Blossom, Studabaker's, Chicago Pizza Factory, Swensen's Ice Cream, High Cotton, Strings & Things. Also remember there was a topless bar on the corner of Union and Cooper in the spot now occupied by Playhouse on the Square. Also The Memphian Theater in the spot where Playhouse was previously. There was also a topless joint on Poplar where CK's is at Evergreen. I was in a band called The Price. Also I was in Monorail & The Jack Holder Band.

This appears to be the right cohort to ask this. Does anyone else remember Larry Raspberry in a little theater production of The Rocky Horror Picture Show during this era? or did I imagine it? The Highsteppers did the music. Where and when was this?

The blue drink mentioned was called a " Blue Goose" and was created by "Ray" the bar tender at Hot Air Balloon.

It showed up about the time the "Long Island Tea" showed up and was a very potent drink. The inside joke was that it turned your lips blue!

Speaking of Yosemite Sam's...everyone remember Danny, Randy, Lu Ann, Doug, Micky, Kay, "Night Hawk", Bud, Cherie, Laura and the Space Invaders video game in the front window and the white lexan disco dance floor? The mechanical bull?

To J. Harrison: The Memphian Theatre

The classes of 1963-1965 at Kingsbury/Treadwell, produced some of the most prolific songwriters and top flight entertainers that ever walked this earth. Don't fret though...Memphis Music is still very much alive!

Anyone remember Sonic Recording Studios?

join Memories of a Lifetime in Memphis TN
Facebook page! Lots of fun...

Hey roach remember me Sharon Biller bought all my clothes from Kay, Linda and you. Moved back from Austin Tx. and live downtown with my great man Kris and put on events at the warehoue (our home)Everyone should come to the garage band reunion sept25 all memphis. 60's and 70's.

just found this site and it brings back great memories..midtown in the 70's, miss it! used to go to Soloman Alfreds alot, play backgammon pinball and relax on the couches. saw billy joel at Lafeyettes..drank divers at silkys when it was out of the deep sea divers helmet..got totally wasted at the cosmic cowboy many a night and I could go on..I grew up in Midtown Mphs..throwing frisbee at Overton Park ..those were great days!!

Why has noone mentioned Interstate 55 playing at High Cotton???? I-55 has reunited and on their website skipped a few years when they had Mike Ferrante singing and Bobby Edwards playing drums. Who could forget Jimi Jamison palying in the back room of Solomon Alfred's??? Too bad Bobby Kizer had to buyrn down all of his clubs!! Remember Alighapo's on Highland?? I love this stuff!! I miss Memphis. I moved away 7 years ago and have got to find my way back.

I really do know how to spell!!Just got excited!!

To J. Harrison..YES!!!!!!Rocky Horror was amazing!!! It really did happen!! It was at the Memphian Theater, which started out being the only "artsy" movie theater in Memphis in the 60's. Larry Raspberry and the Highsteppers were the best!!!!!!Trader Dick's was happening!!

Hey all you Square ex-pats! It's great to hear from so many friends and customers ... I'm Howard - managed Bombay and Lafayette's ... so many great people and such an honor to have been able to invite so many great musicians like Henry! Love to all, Howard

Guys - this is a "blast from the past". Circa 1976 Kathy Cecil worked at a club in Atlanta - The Ugly Duckling - and I remember her mentioning Overton Square in Memphis. At that time the Ron Kimble Band was performing and they were extremly popular here. Kathy may remember that we swapped cars for a few days and she wrecked mine during that time :) Memories??

I started working at Fridays in 73 and there was nowhere wilder on this earth, well maybe Amsterdamn. It was all about sex, drugs, and Rock & Roll fo real. Everyone played Lafayettes Billy Joel, Barry Manilow, Linda Ronstadt, Kiss, Melissa Manchester, Leo Sayer, Paublo Cruise, Booker T. and the MGs, Ect... You didn't have to wait until your shift was over to get laid it could happen in the Ladies Room, the corner Phone Booth, on the Roof. The first time I waited on a table on top of the cash tip was a pill. I was 19 at the time. I went to the head waiter Alan Smith and had the pill in the palm of my hand and asked him what it was. He took it from me swallowed it and said, "I'll tell ya in a minute." You could get away with murder in Memphis in the 70's if you worked at Fridays you were a Rock Star.

Just heard that Channel 10 is going to make one of their "Memphis Memories" shows about Overton Square! They are actively seeking anyone who was there and any pictures or videos or anything else connected with the Square.

I encourage everyone to touch base with WKNO televison if you want to add something. Who knows...this may be the start of a re-ignition of something very special to us all!

I can only add that it is about time somebody did something!

I was a fixture on The Square all through the 70' I booked bands in Friday's (Sunday Nights), Lafayette's, High Cotton, Trader Dicks any place that would have live entertainment. After Lafayette's closed I went down the street and with the help of my friend Jim Robinson opened The Ritz. John Ball and David Broyles helped us staff the place with many the regular bartenders and waiters from TGIF and Bombay. Alan Smith, Perry Hall, Dennis"Rufus"Flanagan, Bill Wissenger, Rick Dawson, Johnny Morattis, Howie.
I believe Ruth pulled a few shifts and Laurie was our cashier Dean Lotz & Mike Stark on the door and too many more that I can't even recall. Billy Joel came back especiall for our Grand Opening in June of '76...

The greatest place, the greatest people and the greatest era!!!

I miss Memphis so much!!

Say John, thanks for the kind words. I haven't been to Memphis in years, but I'll never forget the Square. Actually, I do have an original Campari ashtray from Fridays that still sees service holding golf tees.

I still have a couple of those 2" thick, solid oak, heavy as hell little square top tables from Lafayette's and a couple of the bentwood chairs.

Hey Jerry, what are you doing now? Are you still in the music business? It's amazing that those great entertainers like Billy Joel and Henry Gross still feel connected to the Square.

These are great memories from a great time and place. I try and refrain from personal conversation because the site is about the Square. Might I suggest that this ,Overton Square, site might be taken to facebook where it is more accesiable. I don't even know how I ran across it but I know that there are many many Overton Square fans on facebook and the networking would be greatly enhanced. I'm very techno challenged but I can sorta get around on facebook.

Facebook is a great idea!! Who can do this??

I'm sure there is someone who could do the initial set up then the networking should take care of the rest. I may be over simplifying, but that's where we need someone who knows what they're doing. Memories Of A Lifetime In Memphis is a great FB Page but it, as it should, encompasses all of Memphis over many years. SOS (Save Our Square) is also a great page, but it does have an agenda other than just talking old times and memories from a period basically of the 1970's. While I can agree, for the most part, with the SOS agenda it's nice to just communicate about the Square without the pro and con comments or protests. Somebody! Just Do It!

Somehow, I survived those years at Overton Square and went on to lead a somewhat normal life. I moved back to memphis a few years ago, and am now doing as little as possible. Thanks for thinking of me!!!

I was there opening night at Fridays with Ira Sachs, Gary Belz, I think Frank Turner, Jean & June the fantastic twins, and half a dozen others. Blown away! High Cotton the night "Fingers Taylor" got on stage with Larry Rasberry/Highsteppers rocked the place. later joined. Solomon Alfreds saw Willis Alan Ramsey. Det.Mike, Danny, hmmm too many horses tails-Charley, Pat, Saw Arlo Guthrie there as well. Enchanting times.

Janette, was the waiter at Fridays Phil Hicks? and when I waited there, I would come in about 4 and the cook, I think his name was Shep??? would, for a couple of bucks, fix you a plate FULL of food. My only meal for the day. The amazing people! I was there with Phil, Dennis Flanagan, David Broyles.

I was Ben Woodson's secretary for 7 year, beginning on FGI Friday's first birthday. Imagine your first day at work was TGFI's first birthday party. Our office was up the spiral stairway to the roof with Ben Woodson, myself and Steve Kling (architect). I watched the property develop, witnessed the leasing of property, and everyone worked at a fast pace while Overton Square grew from the ground up. My favorite moment, was walking in front of TGIF as lunch, and here comes Billy Joel down the walk, just in town on vacation. He asked to play Lafayette's that night and all he needed was a "baby grand". A few phone calls later, and announcement on FM100, we sold out two shows within 2 hours. The streets were full and the party rocked on. One show the fire marshall got on the stage, Billy Joel told the crowd to clear the isles, sit in their seats and he would continue to play or the party was over. That is what we did and he played all night. What a great time! I have always said this was the best time of my life. It was not a job it was a life. Those concerts from Lafayette's were broadcast over the tri-state live. Another great memory was when Ben Woodson (1974) was King of Cotton Carnival, he shut down Madison, brought the carnival parade to mid-town and the square had huge sales that weekend. I can go on and on. This was the place to be in the 70's. The best memories.

Worked at 2075 gallery for my best friend Barry Underberg, who owned Swings also. Good friends with Kay King at Chelsea ltd, bought a fine english suit and a shirt with wings on it. Wonderful times.

I REMEMBER THE GODFATHER , DANCIN , LISTENING TO PATTI SMITH,REMEMBER DER HOFFBRAU, HAD MY FIRST AND LAST BEER THERE AGE 13.HOT AIR BALLOON , DATED COON ELDER. LOL HE ALWAYS WORE THAT BLACK HAT AND HAD GREAT BLACK HAIR , WE WENT TO DO THE "NASTY" ONE NIGHT BUT WHEN HE PULLED HIS HAT OFF , I WAS IN SHOCK . I DIDN'T KNOW AT 16 THAT MEN HID BALDNESS WITH HATS!!DONNA BIRCHFIELD AND WERE SITTING IN FRONT OF THE HOT AIR BALLOON AND A GUY CAME BY SINGING TO US THE JETHRO TULL SONG"SITTING ON A PARK BENCH, EYES LITTLE GIRLS WITH BAD INTENT"THEN THE CLUB BOJANGLES THEN FLANAGAN'S THE THE GROTTO, THEN ""the CELEBRATION PLACE BEHIND THE SQUARE, THEN HUEY'S. ON SOUTHERN SIDE WAS 20 CARROTS , JULIUS CHEEZER MMM, A CARD SHOP,TGIF WHERE MY BROTHER STEVE WORKED UNTIL HE WAS FIRED,BURKLES BAKERY FOR BUTTER CRUST BREAD AND VEGETABLE PLATE THEN THE MUSIC STORE WITH BOOTHS TO LISTEN TO MUSIC BEFORE BUYING IT..THEN THE SODA FOUNTAIN , THE SPAGHETTI STORE WHERE BRET GILLESPIE MY BROTHER AND JAN WORKED THEN THE THEATER, WHERE I WATCHED MAD DOGS AND ENGLISHMEN .. OH YES I REMEMBER THE CANDY SHOP!!CHELSEA LTD. AND THE MAGGIES PHARM TO BUY CANDLES AND PATCHOULI HA HA HA , THIS IS REALLY MAKING ME FEEL!!

hey mike, i was going to trader dicks with irvin salky and ira sachs to drink from richie the lil bartender.they had a curfew party at his house on jefferson . it was when the police and firemen were on strike.

Hey Sheri, I use to live in the duplex where Jan lived on Monroe, any idea how to find her? I moved and lost touch!

I am the daughter of Fred Alfonso. I happen to come across all the posts and saw some were about my Dad. He owned a few places like Bojangles, godfathers , The Thunderbird lounge. Anyone know him?

to Danielle Alfonso,
I was the bookkeeper for The Godfather and worked for your Dad. He was a very nice man.

It was 1971 when I started at fridays, phil hicks,phil boland and his twin brothers jim and cris,tom fant, herman rodoulth,dickie and david broyles,john ball,thomas boggs, howie goodman,gabe loponacchie,richie cohen, dunk, roland king ,sammy and howard cawen,gringo ,james t gray,david and tom fant,i could go on for hours but my wife is always telling me that no one wants to hear about my drunken pill laiden woman chasing wall banging past but i still have a good time thinking about those days.

I rather enjoy hearing about those drunken, pill laden, women chasing, wall banging days and all those strange people.
I just can't imagine that people actually behaved with such reckless abandon. I've heard that such goings on took place in Overton Square in the 70's but to hear from someone who actually witnessed, even participated in the debauchery is most interesting.

I arrived on the square in 1972. Lived on Morrison street; and in my heart, I will treasure my experiences in Overton Square until the day I die.

I also worked for Kay King @ Chelsea Limited, her dog was named "Gypsy". All the clothes were direct from London, England.

Great people, food, music and the other things that bent my mind.

To Jerry Swift:
Debauchery describes those days perfectly!!!!
LONG LIVE THE SQUARE!!!

Warren I remember one night in the Square when a couple rednecks started some stuff with you and you held your own very well.
Hey Warren Do you remember me? Claire Smith? I worked at the Toast and hung out with Lyba. We all thought you were the best looking thing. I did exceptionaly well in life, I married Dennis Flanagan (sometimes known as Rufus.) He is still one of the nicest people in Memphis. I hope you see this Write back

Claire, I do remember you and Dennis Flanagan. The Toast was a cool place on Evergreen st. where I met you and Lyba and a host of other cool people.
I think that Dennis had a brother named Mark.
Lyba had a sister and a brother named Freddie.
I live in Cambridge, Ma and have an internet business.
Those Overton Square Years were the BEST!!!!
Keep in touch.

@ John Dwyer

John, Campbell was shot to death. It was March 1975. He took seven bullets from a 9mm Luger. 5 in the torso, 1 in the neck, and 1 in the head. He was still alive when the cops arrived. He was that tough.

David was murdered in July 1978. I believe that was the infamous summer of cops and firemen strikes.

@Les McCurdy
Probably MDA, brother. That's what I got, and I'll never forget it.

I had a '67 Mustang convertible. It was a chilly November night in 1973, and I was stopped at Union & Belvedere. A chick pulled up beside me. We exchanged knowing glances. She nodded at me. Unspoken yet speaking volumes, and I followed her. Oh, what I wouldn't give to go back for one day...just one day. It was a special place and time that for me has never been equalled and never will be. You all know we were blessed, right? It's not coming around again.

Hey hey to Warren!! Those were the days my friends!!

Does anyone recall the name of a local band that often performed in Memphis during the 70's who did the very best version of "In the Pines" / [Black Girl, Black, Girl]? I'd love to get a recording of that group and/or song. That group, song & performance captured, (at least for me), the heart, soul & spirit of Memphis and Overton Square back in the 70's.

Danielle Alfonso,
If your mother once worked for Casual Corner Stores on Poplar Street, I worked with her there and I knew your father also from his clubs.
I hope that they are well.

Rest in Peace Coon Elder! You were famous and well known, but never stuck it in anyone's face or flaunted it.
A fixture in Overton Square golden days and always ready to share a song or a good story. A true professional.

John, you spelled my name wrong! (: Funny I should read this today, a group of old Yosemite Sam's folks are meeting at 1:00 to be interviewed by a woman doing a history of Overton Square for WKNO. Doug Goode, Wilbur Hensley, Colleen Blackburn Stephens, Mary Borden Lowe, Mark Poodle Burnett, and I having lunch today. It should be a fun time! Butch Edwards from G&Gs called me to tell me someone was looking for someone from Sam's to interview. I've kept in touch with some of the people from there and G&Gs.

I lived in Memphis during the late 70's. I still talk about going to Yosemite Sams and drinking Strohs dark beer on tap. I've never had it since.

Stumbled upon this page and enjoyed the trip down memory lane. It was truly a magical time that can never be revisited!

R.I.P Coon Elder..Butt Naked on the Half Shell

Great stuff . I worked floor , door and bar with such amazing people. McDermott , Archie , Larry Pennington ( Penno) Steve & Mark , Corky & Stick and another Corky ( on door ) . A friend ( Steve Grimes ) dated Pam Guest for a while and Sadie I believe. Fantastic memories . I wonder where Penno is ? He was living in Raleigh but that was so long ago.

I played at Soloman Alfred's more times than I can remember with The Lotions from Austin. I loved it there. We got stuck there for week after our New Year's eve gig because of a snow storm. Those gals treated us so nice I almost had to marry one before we could leave. We play as The Mau Mau Chaplains now.....www.maumauchaplains.com or look us up on youtube.

Al, I remember you and the Lotions very well, I worked the bar in the back room at Solomans. More great music came through there. I went to the house next door with you all several nights and did what we did back then, and maybe now

I remember Whitmores bicycle shop. Mr Gene Raines was the owner. In addition to selling those cool schwinn bikes the shop was also a hobby shop. As a 10 year old I would ride my bike over to the shop and talk to Mr Raines. Burkles and a drug store were the only other business that I remember before the Square days. My memory from the square is when I drove the double decker bus that Fridays had for one night.

Billy:
Here is a link to the bus you mentioned. This site has some interesting pedigree information on it. The bus is one of the few remembered items from the golden days.

http://www.timebus.co.uk/rlh/fleet/rlh04/index.htm

I was a waitress at Burkle's for a couple of years--1974-1976, I think. Herman and Ruth were great to work for, and the job was a blast. I liked retro clothes, and bought my work clothes at Schwab's on Beale Street--1950s style d waitress uniforms (dresses) in pastel pink or aqua with short sleeves trimmed in white, a white collar, and snaps or buttons up the front. I had a friend also working there, named Sally, who was very religious--and I remember one day there was an earthquake, and Sally thought/hoped that it was the Second Coming, and she fell to the floor, screaming, "I'm ready, Lord!" Burkle's had a great vibe--great food and great people to work with! I had a boyfriend, Larry Miller, who was a d.j. and, also, a guitarist; we used to go to a club near the Square. The only person I really remember hearing there was Bonnie Raitt. Those were great days!

Saw the Overton Square documentary the other night what a blast from the past. Will be on WKNO 08/09/11 at 7pm

Mention has been made to do a sequel on Overton Square. I concur whole heartedly!

Miss Kitty's
Silver Dollar Palace
High Cotton
Cosmic Cowboy
Playhouse on the Square and others.

A whole other hour/sequel or more could be done on these satellites of Overton Square.

Jay Wells--Darryl--Big Daddy--Perry Hall--Tim Lynch--Larry Barnes--Sandy Carter--Pam Guest--Freddy Alfonso--"Hawk"--Ellen--Craig Howard--Margaret Sammons Hunsucker--Darnell Smith--Vicky--Roxy--Sam--Bridgette. They could be interviewed with some wonderful memories of Overton Square days.

To Luanne: You have not changed at all!

Somebody mentioned it before.....try telling your kids about the place. It was real..It was fun.. and most of all it was a magical time!

Now for this pesky code!!!!

Dear John Dwyer- Judge Roy Bean:
Did you ever find your Lilly Langtree?
It is really nice to know you still think
about Harry.

Leslie, I have thought about you and Harry on more then one occasion. I hope that you are doing ok. I enjoyed working with you

Leslie:
You will be happy to know that when "Smokey" came up on the screen at the preview, there was a very hushed, but loud and affectionate "Aww!", from the audience.
I still have the "Be nice to me, I'm a friend of Solomon Alfred's" pin you gave me!

Does anyone remember "Der Hauf Brau?" It could be part of the sequel!!

Does anyone remember when you could actually park on Madison? Next to the front door at Friday's in the little alley?

JOHN I remember but I can't place you...Alfred's was. the best job I ever had up til now.what a blast.Iworked the back bar every w-sat for a good while.from the time the Group hard it til the day they tore it down

My first paycheck job was at Ardent stuffing promo albums. We ate lunch across the street at the Overton Hero Sub Shop. i later hooked up with Target and worked the door for them at many a gig including Solomon Alfred's Back room, The Ritz, then poet's (next to Bill & Jim's now Neill's) and Alighapo's then Club Kiser. Worked many a gig with Bobby Kiser and Arch/Artie(?). They loved Target because of their hug following. I remember being at Trader Dick's one night when Don Nix sat in and played "goin down" and I remember being at Dick Tracey's jailhouse (east side of cooper just north of union.A relative new place to the area) and the juke box playing "Funk 49" all night long.BACK IN THE DAY!I'll say! I know this code must be in the interest of national security or something,but really...

Walked into Bombay one night where Debbie Cathy ( a close personal friend) was performing with Eddie Harrison. She welcomed and introduced me by name, dedicated the next song to me and proceeded to sing the most incredible version of Midnight at the Oasis known to man! Oh boy, howdy. Every guy in the place was wishing he were me! Thanks, Deb-o!
PS Is this code some kind of anew fangled drug test or something? How ironic being on an Overton Square web site and I'm stone cold sober... Really!

Testing Testing

I hope they bring back the ice skating rink especially since Mall of Memphis is gone now

Jay Wells works with me downtown, Tim Lynch sells Real Estate,Carl Mannino (Chick) works at Fed Ex.David Fant is a E.R Nurse up in Chattanooga. Tom Fant is a Preacher.Terry Allen is at the Grove Grill.Mikie Lyons is at the Half Shell.Bobby Maupin sells liquor.Crazy Larry McCandless has pased away along with many others that made that a great era. I could go on but need to get some work done.

Hey Y'all Micki from Sams how y'all doing ... will be at the last night of serving drinks at Sams

I was always at the Square 71-77 and remember most of you well! I made some great friends there(rest in peace Thom Gans) and dated lots of the wonderful girls Sadie was a favorite and most notably the one and only Cherron Morrison who recently passed,but will live in my heart FOREVER! "Johnny Mac" McDaniel P. S. I live in Nashville now and ownTENNESSEE THERMAL

topless bar was "the grotto" downstairs by where the bayoo bar is now

I lived on North Parkway and worked for MLGW. I jogged up N Parkway to Sears Tower umpteen times and my favorite "downhome" restaurant was Burkles. Overton Square was the BEST place to get to know good people and have a great time. I visit Memphis sometimes and drive through the Square and wish I had a time machine. The houses they tried to tear down for I-40 was a big thing back then and I was sickened by them continuing to demolish all those grand ole homes. TGI was the place to be along with Hot Air Ballon. Memphis was cool back then.

Steveh-
Thought that topless bar was downstairs
at Yosemite Sams. I remember playing billards and the waitresses would walk around topless serving you! Me and a buddy of mine would hitch hike from east Memphis to the Square sometimes. Those were the days!

Hey Tim (Frass) -


Great reading your posts! The Square made things alright back then. Did you ever eat at The Spaghetti Store (around the corner from Friday's?)

Worked at Fridays from 78-80 and helped the Overton Square crew open up the first mud island restaurants....Derm, Corky, wango-tango..so many great people who spread across the city. Billy Joel was on the radio tonight and told my kids about the time he played the coliseum and comped a bunch of tickets for his old Overton Square friends, called the group out at his concert. It was such an amazing place and time, didn't realize it until much later. Live in Denver now, way out of bar biz...

To Jim Wilson and "JV" if you go to the Commercial Appeal's photo's of the past look at number 8 of 85.

There you will find a very young Campbell Kensinger, along with his whole family, celebrating his grandfather's 98th birthday.

One of the toughest guys I ever knew. Fear was an alien thought to him.

Du Cambell worked that door at trader dicks when I worked there... he was bad to the bone but a very nice pleasant guy.. if you like you
.


.
..

My dad is Buddy Bernstein. He was at Bombay Bicycle Club. I'd love to hear about him back then.

I finally got to see the overton square memoris and LU-Lu was right Sam's was the step child back then and the picture of Belew during the comment "it was a place to hook up" could not hv been more correct.I would like to give a shout out to Dwyer .. i use to make him coffee with a shot of lemon in it when he would stop by Sam's.. Yes Johnny i still remeber... To all the coneheads out you are still loved and missed for those who have passed on.I could go on&on but not enough time about Sam's and Silky's Mississippi river co and all the other joints on square who we all had a great time working for back in the 70's ... PEACE

Anyone remember "The Late Show" from Solomon Alfreds (back room?)

Mick you were one of the fondest memories I had down in the square next to "Smokey" and Laura Lowe. How'd you like the way I snuck her picture in with the red velvet jacket? Didja notice Luanne hasn't aged a bit?

Whatever happened to Jerry--Bud--Deaton--Cheree--Kay?

You are right more than you know...many of the original coneheads have passed on to better planes. I sure hope you found the right guy, because you deserved the best putting up with all of us in those years. (On and Off Duty!)
Yosemite Sam's may have been the step child, but it was the "most real" of all the places down there.

Hey Johnny ... I did notice the red jacket... and no I tried to have a mr right but it did not work out but I have a great daughter and 2 wonderful grand daugthers...And yes we did keep it real in those days ... if there is a squeal to overton square i have some pictures from Sam's There was just not enough! And like the coneheads some of the people mention have moved on to another plane too, so maybe there is a SAM'S in the sky that we all will be together again one day!

I will always remember Solomon Alfred's. Played there often with Nexus and a couple of times with Danny & Paige Mckee from Morrocan Roll. We had some great times.

We played both the front and back rooms.

Hey Gene! I was a young Marine in Millington and often came in to the Balloon. That was my favorite places. I have a couple pix of you guys. I especially remember Mariah. Didn't you cut an album with Stax? I can't find it on line. Hope to hear back.

Seen Billy Joel there and will never forget. One of the best times of my life.

I was a student at MSU early 70's. Greg "fingers" Taylor was a high school friend from Jackson,Ms. He was visiting me and I took him to see Larry Raspberry at High Cotton. Greg always carried harps with him and he jumped onstage and started playing. Raspberry almost punched him out, but realized how good he was and eventually invited him to join the Highsteppers. What a night|

I was there as well, at High Cotton that night Fingers Taylor first played with Rasberry. We were front table and it was magical! At least I remember it that way. You're right Larry was annoyed at first, but soon warmed up after hearing him play. Damn great time!

What was there before the Square?

...what I meant was where did people go before the Square...

Does anyone recall the name of a local band that often performed in Memphis during the 70's who did the very best version of "In the Pines" / [Black Girl, Black, Girl]? I'd love to get a recording of that group and/or song. That group, song & performance captured, (at least for me), the heart, soul & spirit of Memphis and Overton Square back in the 70's.
...................................

Coon Elder Band That song was one his mainstays.

Rest in Peace Coon Elder! You were famous and well known, but never stuck it in anyone's face or flaunted it.
A fixture in Overton Square golden days and always ready to share a song or a good story. A true professional.

In the Pines...an old tune from none other than the legendary Huddie Leadbetter (Leadbelly), but the song probably predates him even.

"In the Pines", also known as "Black Girl" and "Where Did You Sleep Last Night", is a traditional American folk song which dates back to at least the 1870s, and is believed to be Southern Appalachian in origin. The identity of the song's author is unknown, but it has been recorded by many artists in numerous genres. Traditionally, it is most often associated with the American folk musician Lead Belly, who recorded several versions in the 1940s, as well as the American bluegrass musician Bill Monroe, who helped popularize the song (in a different variant, featuring lyrics about a train) among bluegrass and country audiences with his versions recorded in the 1940s and 1950s.

I THINK THAT MUDBOY AND THE NEUTRONS DID "Where did you sleep last night"

Hi everyone! I am Lyle's (from WE Too) daughter...if you were at the Hot Air in the mid 70's you might remember a cute little girl running around...yep! That's me!!! Gene is doing great and my dad is still rocking the weekends in DeBary Florida! I would love to hear any stories you might have. I remember a little, mostly eating the pepperoni for the pizza and napping in the office. Oh yeah, and drinking the best Shirley Temples ever!! Can't wait to hear from you!!!

Hi Raney
I was wondering if there are any recordings of WE Too. Was Ray still one of the bartenders making those Shirley Temples for you?

Wasn't there a pizza place called American Pie just down the block?

I'm still digging for pic's. Too bad they are all small C110 Instamatic size.

It is with great sadness that I just learned Ernie Barrasso has passed away. One of the owners of the Godfather Restaurant and a long time entrepeneur of the night club and disco scenes.

Always happy and always ready to make your acquaintance when you came to his business.

Rest in Peace Ernie. You were one of the greats and the originator of many, many great memories of Overeton Square and elsewhere in the City of Memphis.

@ Willie, before Overton Square it was BYOB and you paid for setups. We went to TJs which is the shopping center where midtown Home Depot is, that smaller strip center. I saw Tony Joe White there. There were places on Highland to go (David's), and some other clubs, mostly small places scattered all around. There was the Highlighter downtown. I even went to Peggy's Patio on Miss. Blvd., for the music only. But, Overton Square revolutionized the city and the nightlife!

Someone asked me a year or so back...I rarely visit here but need to do more check ins, if it was Phil Hicks in the photo. I think that's right. I found the original photo the other day. It was the one year celebration that I took the photo of them holding the $1 bill. I have more and when I found out waaaay too late that Chnl. 10 was doing a memoir of the Square they could have gotten another set of rare photos from me. I have one of the DOUBLE DECKER English bus we had in the orig. days and used it to tour people around, plus take us all to the small ballpark, where we had a team. Anyway, hi to all out there.

72 or 3 High Cotton saw Don Nix and Bobby Whitlock, Wow! And Friday' got to love those dirty mothers and fried mushroom in the window be the sidewalk.

Hi all, my name is Jim I'm far too young to remember the hot air ballon. But my grandpa is Gene from "We Too" and I'd love to hear some stories or see some pictures if anyone has them!

Feel free to email me at jimmymarine86@yahoo.com

My name is Donnie Brown I was the bass guitarist for I-55 from 1974-1975.High Cotton was our home base when we were not playing gigs in Arkansas,Oklahoma,Texas or wherever.Those were great times.We did the whole Abbey Road medley and a lot of obscure material along with our obscure originals.The top bands in Memphis at that time were Larry Raspberry,Target,Southern Creed,and us.Wish we could bring all that together if for only one night!

I swear to G someone needs to do a throwback movie. Call Scorsese or something. The Square is like a giant frozen-in-time set piece full of nostalgic epicness.