Memphis Music Legend Kirk Smothers on BB King, Soul & 40 Years of Playing the South | Ep. 9

Some of the most important musicians in American music history don't chase attention. They chase the work.Kirk Smothers has spent over 40 years playing, recording, and touring the world — shaping records you've heard while building a life in Memphis music without a highlight reel or brand strategy. He's played alongside BB King, toured internationally, and remained one of the most respected working musicians in the South.In this episode of Spirits in the Material World, Sean Blankenship sits down with Kirk for a master class in musicianship, humility, and longevity.🎷 In this episode, we cover:00:00 - Introduction05:00 - Growing up in Memphis and finding music early15:00 - What it really takes to make a living as a working musician28:00 - Playing with BB King and other world-class artists42:00 - Tone, discipline, relationships, and longevity in music55:00 - Why some Memphis legends stay hidden in plain sight1:05:00 - Final thoughts and reflections(Update timestamps to match your actual episode)🎙️ About Spirits in the Material World:A Memphis-based MidSouth podcast exploring Southern culture, music, business, and the stories that shape our communities. Hosted by Sean Blankenship, produced by Pairaces Studio.🔗 Listen everywhere:🟢 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4oOvZO6tiuPA68r5m2ZfGJ🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/spirits-in-the-material-world-a-midsouth/id1803956926💜 iHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-spirits-in-the-material-wo-302669565📲 Follow the show:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@spiritsinthematerialworldcast#MemphisMusic #BBKing #JazzSaxophone #SouthernMusic #MidSouth #WorkingMusician #MemphisBlues #SoulMusic #PodcastInterview #SpiritsInTheMaterialWorld #TennesseeMusic #SouthernCulture #MemphisPodcast