Set on the southwestern edge of Tennessee and bordered on the west by the bountiful Mississippi River, Memphis is surrounded by incredible natural splendor but remains best known for its music scene. Renowned as a mecca for blues and rock 'n roll music, musical greats ranging from Elvis Presley to B.B. King got their start in Memphis, and its venues play more live music than many cities twice its size. Both a historical district and a modern entertainment hotspot, Beale Street features three blocks of live music clubs, restaurants and specialty shops. The district is also one of the major sites of activity during the city's biggest event, Memphis in May, a music festival incorporating local traditions with international culture.