Biography
Mem Shannon is an acclaimed American blues guitarist, singer, and songwriter, born in 1959 in New Orleans, Louisiana. Growing up in the heart of one of America’s most musically rich cities, Shannon was deeply influenced by the vibrant sounds of New Orleans, which would later become a hallmark of his eclectic style. Before launching his professional music career, Shannon spent 15 years working as a cab driver on Bourbon Street, an experience that profoundly shaped his storytelling and songwriting approach.
Shannon’s breakthrough came in 1995 with the release of his debut album, 'A Cab Driver’s Blues,' which drew directly from his experiences behind the wheel and featured actual recorded conversations with his passengers. His music blends traditional blues with New Orleans funk, jazz, rock, and soul, resulting in a distinctive sound that pushes the boundaries of the genre. Over the years, Shannon has continued to record and perform with his band, The Membership, earning a reputation for his insightful lyrics, inventive guitar work, and authentic representation of New Orleans blues. His legacy lies in his ability to merge personal narrative with broader social commentary, making him a respected figure in contemporary blues.
Fun Facts
- Before becoming a full-time musician, Mem Shannon worked as a Bourbon Street taxi driver for 15 years, and his debut album features real conversations with his cab passengers.
- Shannon is known for blending genres, incorporating elements of funk, jazz, rock, and soul into his blues foundation.
- He is recognized for his deep baritone voice and conversational, storytelling lyrical style.
- Shannon’s music often addresses social issues, drawing on his life experiences and observations from his years as a cab driver.
Associated Acts
- Mem Shannon & The Membership - eponymous
Musical Connections
Mentors/Influences
- New Orleans blues and R&B tradition - Shannon was heavily influenced by the classic New Orleans blues and R&B artists he grew up hearing, which shaped his musical style. (General influence throughout his discography) [1960s–present]
Key Collaborators
- The Membership Band - Shannon’s primary backing band, featured on all his major recordings and live performances. (A Cab Driver’s Blues, 2nd Blues Album, and subsequent albums) [1995–present]
Artists Influenced
- Contemporary New Orleans blues musicians - Shannon’s blend of storytelling and blues has inspired a new generation of local musicians to incorporate personal narrative and diverse influences. (Influence seen in the local scene rather than specific artists) [2000s–present]
Discography
Albums
| Title | Release Date | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Memphis In The Morning | 2001-05-08 | Album |
| I'm From Phunkville | 2006-05-12 | Album |
| A Cab Driver's Blues | 1995 | Album |
| Live: A Night at Tipitina's | 2007-07-10 | Album |
| Spend Some Time With Me | 1999-02-16 | Album |
| Live: A Night At Tipitina's | 2008-02-05 | Album |
| Live: A Night at Tipitina's | 2008-02-05 | Album |
| Live: A Night at Tipitina's | 2008-02-05 | Album |
| Live: A Night at Tipitina's | 2008-02-05 | Album |
| Memphis In The Morning | 2005-06-21 | Album |
| Spend Some Time With Me | 2005-06-21 | Album |
| Memphis In The Morning | 2005-06-21 | Album |
| Memphis In The Morning | 2005-06-20 | Album |
| Spend Some Time With Me | 2005-06-20 | Album |
| Spend Some Time With Me | 2005-06-20 | Album |
Top Tracks
- Doing The Best That I Can (Memphis In The Morning)
- I'll Kiss A Pitbull (I'm From Phunkville)
- Maxine (A Cab Driver's Blues)
- Blues Is Back
- S.U.V. (Memphis In The Morning)
- No Religion - Live (Live: A Night at Tipitina's)
- Who Are They - Live (Live: A Night at Tipitina's)
- Phunkville (I'm From Phunkville)
- Play the Guitar Son (A Cab Driver's Blues)
- Taxicab Driver (A Cab Driver's Blues)
External Links
Tags: #blues, #electric-blues
References
Heard on WWOZ
Mem Shannon has been played 10 times on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.