Marc Cohn’s “Walking in Memphis”

Released in 1991 as the opener to his self-titled debut, Marc Cohn’s “Walking in Memphis” is what I believe to be one of America’s greatest songs. Yet, not in regard to a specific cultural impact or philosophical conviction; rather, just through the means of how it makes you say to yourself, “Gee, what a great song” after listening to it. The song was written simply after a trip to Memphis — there’s no life-changing perspective, although the awesome humanism felt by an Ohio kid strolling through Memphis can be heard through the refrain, “Do I really feel the way I feel?”; It’s the traditional “living in the big city” narrative, but the little interactions woven throughout resonate profoundly. And that “Ma’am I am tonight” moment is the same tier as the “In the Air Tonight” drum fill by Phil Collins: it demands to be interacted with by the listener.

The song was very popular at the time of its release, peaking at number 13 on the US Billboard Hot 100 list. Furthermore, the song also helped Cohn receive a Grammy for Best New Artist in 1992. I find that the song is known by near everyone yet swept under the rug for consideration of the best 90s hits. Truly, the geographic respect and larger topics of modesty and humility within a small-town songwriter in Tennessee make this to be one of the most enjoyable American songs.