Biography
Memphissippi Sounds is a dynamic blues duo formed by Cameron Kimbrough and Damion “Yella P” Pearson, whose collaboration bridges the musical traditions of North Mississippi hill country and Memphis blues. Cameron Kimbrough, grandson of the legendary bluesman Junior Kimbrough, grew up immersed in the sounds of his family's juke joint in Potts Camp, Mississippi, where he developed his rhythmic, stripped-down approach to the blues. Damion Pearson, a Memphis native, taught himself harmonica from the age of 13, honing his skills on Beale Street and absorbing the city’s rich musical heritage.
The two musicians met by chance on Beale Street, instantly connecting over their shared passion for the blues. Their partnership led to the formation of Memphissippi Sounds, a project that fuses Kimbrough’s hill country blues with Pearson’s Beale Street harmonica, further enriched by elements of Memphis soul and hip-hop. Their debut album, 'Welcome to the Land' (2021), produced by Aki Kumar, received critical acclaim and earned them a Blues Music Award nomination for Best Emerging Artist Album. Since their formation, Memphissippi Sounds has performed at venues ranging from juke joints to major festivals across the United States and internationally, carrying forward and innovating within the blues tradition.
Fun Facts
- The name 'Memphissippi' was coined by blues legend Bobby Rush to describe the blend of Tennessee and Mississippi musical traditions.
- Cameron Kimbrough left college to tour with Lightnin’ Malcolm, a pivotal decision that launched his professional career.
- Damion Pearson bought his first harmonica at age 13 and was self-taught, developing his style by playing on Beale Street.
- Their debut album, 'Welcome to the Land,' was recorded in just two weekends, with many songs composed spontaneously in the studio.
Musical Connections
Mentors/Influences
- Junior Kimbrough - Cameron Kimbrough's grandfather and a foundational influence in North Mississippi hill country blues; Cameron grew up hearing and playing music at Junior's juke joint. (Family performances, influence on Cam's drumming and guitar style) [Childhood through present]
- Lightnin’ Malcolm - Toured with Cameron Kimbrough, providing professional mentorship and encouragement to pursue a music career. (Touring together across the US) [2011 and after]
Key Collaborators
- Damion “Yella P” Pearson - Co-founder and core member of Memphissippi Sounds; harmonica player, vocalist, and songwriter. (Welcome to the Land (2021)) [2015–present]
- Aki Kumar - Producer of Memphissippi Sounds' debut album, contributing to the duo's recorded sound. (Welcome to the Land (2021)) [2021]
- Sean Apple - Both Kimbrough and Pearson played as hired musicians for Sean Apple, which facilitated their initial meeting and collaboration. (Live performances on Beale Street) [2015]
Connection Network
Discography
Top Tracks
- Leave It All Behind (Leave It All Behind)
External Links
Tags: #blues
References
Heard on WWOZ
MEMPHISSIPPI SOUNDS has been played 1 time on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.
| Date | Time | Title | Show | Spotify |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 3, 2025 | 15:21 | WHO'S GONNA RIDEfrom WELCOME TO THE LAND | Blues Eclecticw/ Andrew Grafe |