Stax Music Academy Marks 25th Anniversary with Soul of America Virtual Production and Educational Guide
MEMPHIS, Tenn., Feb. 6, 2025 / – In celebration of its 25th anniversary, the Stax Music Academy (SMA) is reaffirming its commitment to youth, education, and the enduring legacy of soul music. To mark this milestone, SMA has announced the release of Soul of America, its highly anticipated annual virtual performance production, accompanied by a comprehensive study guide designed for educators.
Educators, students, youth organizations, and music enthusiasts can now register to access Soul of America, a dynamic multimedia presentation that explores the intersection of music, history, and social change.
A Legacy of Music and Education
“This year’s program bridges personal experiences with music while celebrating the continued influence of American soul music,” said Bria Saulsberry, SMA’s Director of Education & Youth Development.
Saulsberry emphasized that SMA’s goal is to empower students to use their creative talents to reflect on their communities. “The accompanying study guide encourages youth to harness their artistic voices, define their values, and explore how they can contribute meaningfully to society,” she added.
Each year, SMA students take an active role in writing, directing, and performing in the production. Senior student Pasley Thompson, who plans to pursue music in college, credits SMA with teaching her essential life skills. “One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned here is balance—managing life, school, and work while pursuing music. I never imagined myself as a singer or scriptwriter, but SMA gave me the tools to bring my vision to life in a way that resonates with others, just like music does.”
Bringing Music to a Wider Audience
Last year’s Soul of America performance reached over 150,000 viewers, with a significant boost from educators nationwide and the support of the Ryan Seacrest Foundation. Through Seacrest Studios, a network of high-tech media centers in pediatric hospitals across the U.S., the program was broadcast multiple times to young patients at Memphis’ Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital.
“We are excited to collaborate once again with Stax Music Academy to bring the healing power of music to patients and families,” said Chris Luther, Lead of Seacrest Studios at Le Bonheur. “Our shared mission is to inspire and uplift children—whether through medicine, music, or a combination of both.”
A Year of Celebrations
As part of its anniversary celebrations, SMA has planned a series of major events throughout 2025, including:
Live Performance in Memphis – On February 21, SMA students will take the stage in downtown Memphis for a special anniversary concert.
12 Months of Soul – A year-long series of free pop-up concerts featuring gospel, blues, and R&B, honoring the roots and evolution of soul music.
National Summer Tour – Students will perform in major cities, including Washington, D.C., New York City, Philadelphia, Nashville, and key locations in the Mississippi Delta. The tour will kick off at the prestigious Smithsonian Folklife Festival.
Honoring a Musical Legacy
Stax Music Academy continues to build on the storied history of Stax Records, the legendary Memphis label that nurtured artists such as Booker T. & the M.G.’s, Isaac Hayes, and The Staple Singers. Today, SMA provides intensive music education and mentorship to students aged 12-18, ensuring that the city’s rich musical heritage lives on through new generations of artists.
Soul of America and its accompanying study guide will be made available for free in February 2025, providing invaluable educational resources to schools, youth groups, and organizations with limited arts access.
