Cohn wrote the song following a 1985 trip to Memphis intended to cure a severe case of writer's block. Inspired by an interview with , who suggested traveling to new places for creative spark, Cohn visited several landmarks that became the song's lyrical pillars: Beale Street : The heart of Memphis's musical heritage.
: Located in nearby Robinsonville, MS, this is where he met and performed with pianist Muriel Davis Wilkins , leading to the famous "Are you a Christian child?" exchange. Music Video Style Marc Cohn - Walking in Memphis (Official Music Video)
: Cohn was deeply moved hearing Reverend Al Green preach, describing it as a transformative experience that left him "ten feet off of Beale". Cohn wrote the song following a 1985 trip