They want our rhythm but not our blues.” I’ve been thinking about that saying since last week, when Memphis was divided by three and Memphians’ voting power was diluted. If you’re not familiar, the phrase points to the embrace of Black cultural contributions, while at the same time rejecting the pain and inequality of Black lives that have often led to the creation of the music, the fashion and the language. Conservative politicians in the legislature literally want Memphis’ blues — the music — to market for tourists worldwide. They want to protect Beale Street. They praise the barbecue, quote…
