Power of Music Honors presented by Soulsville Foundation

An evening celebrating the transformative power of music to inspire change, uplift, and shape the future.

Join The Soulsville Foundation for this year’s Power of Music Honors – an evening celebrating artists, leaders, and changemakers who continue to use music as a force for innovation, advocacy, and lasting community impact. The program will feature live musical performances alongside the awards presentation, reflecting the creativity, passion, and energy at the heart of the Honors.

Established in 2025, the Power of Music Honors recognizes visionaries who harness music to inspire change, uplift communities, and shape culture. From creating opportunities and fostering wellness through artistic expression to driving movements that influence future generations, the Honors spotlight those making a meaningful difference through their work.

Inspired by the legacy of Stax Records – a catalyst for economic empowerment, youth engagement, artist development, and Black entrepreneurship – the event carries forward a tradition of music as a powerful agent for change. Rooted in Memphis, a city globally recognized for its musical influence, the Honors reflect the Soulsville Foundation’s ongoing leadership in music education and cultural preservation. The inaugural event in 2025 recognized Chuck D, whose legacy as a social justice champion and cultural innovator set a powerful precedent for honoring artists and organizations driving real-world change through music.

Dr. Žak Ozmo, founder of the Ozmo Institute for Neuroaesthetics, will be recognized as the inaugural Health & Wellness honoree for his groundbreaking work at the intersection of music, neuroaesthetics, and human well-being – advancing how music can support healing, resilience, and connection.

The music honoree will be announced soon!

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Power of Music Honors
Thursday, April 30
Crosstown Theater
VIP Reception: 6-7 p.m.
Event Program: 7:30-9:30 p.m.
*Doors open at 7 p.m. for general admission guests

Tickets
VIP: $100
General Admission: $50

Paid and free parking options in the Crosstown Parking Garage
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ARTIST ACCESS TICKETS

A limited number of Artist Access Tickets for the 2026 Power of Music Honors will be made available to Memphis-area musicians through donor support, ensuring artists can attend, connect, and take part in this celebration of music in action. Click here to submit a request to join the waitlist. This opportunity does not guarantee admission. Selected artists will be contacted with the next steps. Eligibility is limited to Memphis-area musicians. Deadline to request: Friday, April 24.

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The Power of Music Honors is supported by ARTSMemphis, Duncan Williams Asset Management, First Horizon Foundation, Henry and Lynn Turley Foundation, Mempho Presents, Paragon Bank, and Wilson Foundation.