(Memphis) The blues are being temporarily replaced by The Beatles on historic Beale Street.
Many are hoping that a British invasion of royalty will come to the home of the blues and birthplace of rock ‘n roll in May.
Gary and Jan Head are from the United Kingdom and visiting Memphis because they’re fans of another King, Elvis Presley.
“I think it would be very good for Memphis. They are amazing. They’re a lovely royal family,” Jan Head said.
“We know Harry likes his nightlife. I am sure he would enjoy Beale Street,” Gary Head said with a laugh.
According to London’s Sunday Times, Prince William and Kate Middleton are expected to head to America with Prince Harry for the wedding of one of their closet friends, London nightclub owner Guy Pelly.
He’s marrying former Memphian Elizabeth ‘Lizzy’ Wilson, the granddaughter of Holiday Inn founder Kimmons Wilson.
Kev and Julie Walker are also from England, sipping on southern-flavored iced tea. They believe the British Royals would love Memphis.
“I do believe they are music fans. So yeah, get on down to Beale Street,”Kev Walker said with a laugh.
“The royals are now a different breed than they used to be and they’re a young couple. So, I think they’d enjoy it, yeah,” Julie Walker said.
Published reports also say William and his brother are expected to act as ushers for the outdoor ceremony at the Memphis Polo Club. Guests would enjoy a private tour of Graceland and dinner on Beale Street.
No one is confirming the visit to WREG, but many on Beale Street are ready to place down the welcome mat.
Mykuloh is the doorman at Flinn’s BBQ on Beale.
“If they come to Beale Street that would bring a lot of people to Memphis,” Mykuloh said.
The possibility of a royal visit would put Memphis on the global stage. It would also take place the same weekend of the Memphis in May Beale Street Music Festival.
Jim Holt is the president and CEO of Memphis in May.
“We get a lot of music fans that travel from the UK to attend the festival. We got a great line up, people coming from 50 states and nine foreign countries. It wouldn’t be a surprise. I think they’d have a great time,” Holt said.
It’s a great time and a possible visit that’s creating quite the buzz in a city known for its own music royalty as it hopes for a British invasion in Memphis.
