Chris Pitts is an exceptionally gifted guitarist and singer hailing from Memphis, Tennessee. His entertainment style is captivating and creative, taking fans through a musical journey that spans many genres to include Blues, Country, Rock, and R&B Soul.
Born into a family of Blues musicians, it was only natural that Chris was drawn to play at a mere 5 years of age. With the help of his uncles Steve and Clarence Nelson, he began to master his craft. At age 13, he played his first gig, beside Uncle Steve at, “This Is It,” a blues club on the infamous Beale Street in Memphis. Chris would later go on to become lead guitarist at “Wild Bill’s” after the passing of Big Lucky Carter.
Pitts has been honored to showcase his talents while performing beside many greats to include Bobby Rush, Latimore, Blind Mississippi Morris, Ms. Ruby Wilson, and Lil Howlin’ Wolf. Performing as lead guitarist with the Memphis Soul Survivors for a decade, Pitts joined Melvin Lee, Archie Turner, Neal “The Real Deal,” and Ms. Nikki throughout numerous engagements within the U.S. and throughout Ireland and France. In 2016, Mississippi Bigfoot called upon Pitts to join them on their European tour as lead guitarist.
Pitts latest musical journey has led him to create a band of his own. Now performing as Chris Pitts and The Memphis Prime, Chris is lead vocalist and guitarist. He is joined by talented friends Jaylen Brown on bass and Leon Edwards on drums. Chris Pitts and the Memphis Prime have won the hearts of many with a dynamic showcase that features favorites from legends such as Albert King, Muddy Waters, Freddie King, Howlin’ Wolf, Charlie Pride, and Jimi Hendrix. This talented group surely brings a fresh and funky vibe to old soul music with depth and passion that is memorable and unmatched. Chris Pitts and the Memphis Prime are paving their own way to legendary.