It’s no secret that many of the biggest stars in Nashville’s music history got their start at 706 Union Avenue in Memphis; the original address of Sun Records. Such legendary performers as Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins and even Conway Twitty passed through the historic studios of Sam Phillips throughout their careers. That legacy continues at the Sun Diner, located at 105 Third Ave. S in downtown Nashville, while honoring Elvis on the 40th Anniversary of his passing. On August 16, the award-winning chef will make the famed peanut butter and banana sandwich that Elvis loved so much.
“The Sun Diner celebrates the heritage and music history that was so present during the Sun Records era,” said Katie Goytte, VP of Sales & Marketing for TC Restaurant Group, the company which owns the establishment. “It is always fun to celebrate milestones and sad to remember when someone dies, however, this year marks the 40th anniversary of Elvis’ passing and we couldn’t just ignore it. We are hoping all of Music City will join The Sun Diner in celebrating Elvis’ career and history on August 16.”
The restaurant, which has become a destination for tourists and locals, showcasing the taste of southern hospitality 24 hours a day.
The menu at the Sun Diner will most take on a Memphis flavor with such items as the “Love Me” Tenders – named after the classic Presley hit, as well as the “Cry, Cry, Cry” Hot Wings – with its name taken from the first major hit record from “The Man In Black.” Among the entrees include the “Million Dollar Quartet,” with its moniker taken from the iconic December 1956 session at the label with Presley, Lewis, Cash, and Carl Perkins. Consumers will get to pick their choice of four items among such delicious fare as Crispy Bacon, Sausage Patty, Chef Tomasz Hash Brown, Cage-free organic eggs any style, Pancake, Waffle, and Granola Parfait. Sun Diner is located at 103 3rd Avenue South, Nashville and opened 24 hours a day. Follow them on Facebook for the latest updates.
Nashville Remembers Elvis!
“In 1955, Elvis turned the music world upside down. Young people loved him and his new kind of music. Adults tried to stop him, but he was unstoppable. How lucky I am to have known him and worked with him and called him my friend. The whole world and every generation knows his name. What an awesome thing that is. Forty years have flown by without the King, but I still remember all the fun we had together.” – Wanda Jackson
“Never again will the tapestry of music be changed so dramatically. His music touched the lives of just about everyone in the world and brought a sound that has grown and endured to this day. All children grow up knowing three things; Coke, Mickey Mouse, and Elvis Presley. It was a pleasure to know him and call him friend.” – Brenda Lee
“After 40 years, there are times that I’m still in denial about my friend passing. When he died it really scared me because I knew that if someone like him, who was bigger than life, could die… I could too.” – T.G. Sheppard
“I lived in Memphis, singing jingles/commercials at the Tanner Company, and we were asked to sing at a Jaycee’s banquet honoring Elvis; he winked at me backstage and I about fainted! Then I moved to Nashville, became a backup singer on albums, and then his producer Felton Jarvis hired us to add vocals to his live show recording in Rapid City, SD. As we worked on the album, Elvis died the next week, we were all devastated, but had to return a week later to complete the recording. In tears. Felton was in shock; we sobbed as we put headphones on to finish. Shortly after, Felton passed away.” – Janie Fricke
“As I look back on my time spent working with Elvis, I am so thankful that I had the opportunity to work with the King. Today, I am in the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Gospel Music Hall of Fame with him. What a great honor!” – Richard Sterban
“I toured with Elvis for the last 4 years of his life and recorded two albums with him. Both of which were recorded in the jungle room at Graceland. He was without a doubt the most talented artist of our time and was the greatest entertainer to ever take the stage. It’s hard to believe that 40 years has passed since his death. I’m grateful for the millions of fans across the world that has kept his memory alive. We travel to Memphis every year for the celebration of his life and I’m amazed by the thousands of people that join us there. He is often imitated, but there will never be another Elvis. I’m thankful to have known him personally and miss him very much.” – Larry Strickland, former member of The Stamps Quartet
“August 16th 1977. A day I will always remember. I was on tour with Charley Pride with my group “Dave & Sugar” in Eugene, Oregon, when I was told that Elvis had died. Man what a shock! So many great memories singing on stage with Elvis and singing on his recordings for RCA Records as I was with J.D. Sumner & the Stamps Quartet. After the shows in Las Vegas and on the road we would go to Elvis’s suite and would always end up singing again, but it would be gospel songs. He loved the harmonies of quartets and gospel songs. One time up in his suite he wanted to show me a new karate move. He did and as I flinched he stopped and said, “now don’t be afraid because if I break something on you, I’ll just replace it.” We had a good laugh. What a great time in my life, knowing Elvis as a friend and singing with him on stage.” – Dave Rowland, Dave & Sugar
