Welcome to MBKS – Memphis Best Kept Secrets
Every great city has a sound. And Memphis? Memphis has always been more than music — it’s been a movement. From the blues of Beale Street to the anthems of Yo Gotti and Three 6 Mafia, this city has shaped the soundtrack of generations. But here’s the truth: some of the city’s brightest voices are still waiting for their light.
That’s why we created MBKS – Memphis Best Kept Secrets.
This platform is dedicated to shining a spotlight on the hidden gems of Memphis — the rappers, singers, producers, and creators who are building the future of the 901 sound. Whether you’re an artist chasing your dream, a fan looking for what’s next, or just someone who loves Memphis culture, MBKS is where tomorrow’s legends are discovered today.
What You’ll Find on MBKS Blog:
Artist Spotlights: Deep dives on rising Memphis talent — their journey, their sound, and their vision.
Throwback ➝ Now: Linking Memphis legends with the new wave of artists carrying the torch.
Behind the Music: Studio vibes, producer highlights, songwriting stories.
Did You Know?: Quick Memphis music facts that remind us why the city will always be unmatched.
MBKS Mondays: A weekly roundup of talent, lists, and community-driven features.
Artist Tips: Guidance on radio spins, promo strategies, and building your brand as an independent artist.
Event Coverage: Recaps of concerts, showcases, and open mics across Memphis.
Why It Matters:
Memphis has always raised legends. But every legend started as someone unheard — someone grinding late nights in the studio, someone playing shows in small venues, someone waiting for their moment. MBKS exists to make sure those voices don’t stay hidden.
This is where Memphis music meets its future.
Welcome to MBKS. The city’s best kept secrets won’t be secrets for long.
ARTIST OF THE WEEK
Date: April 27th, 2026
By: MBKS Staff
Every week, MBKS highlights one of the city’s rising stars — the voices shaping the sound of tomorrow. This week, we’re shining the spotlight on PISTOL PACO, an upcoming Memphis artist whose grind, passion, and story represent everything MBKS stands for: talent, hustle, and heart.
MBKS Artist Spotlight: Pistol Paco | Memphis, TN
Background
Straight out of Raleigh, Memphis, Pistol Paco comes from a strong, close-knit family that helped shape who he is today. That foundation instilled values, morals, and a mindset he still stands on—both in life and in his music.
The Start of the Journey
Pistol Paco’s music journey didn’t start in a big studio—it started with pure vibes.
Towards the end of high school, he and his friends would freestyle on a karaoke machine. What started as fun quickly turned into something deeper.
He fell in love with the creative process.
Waking up wanting to make music every day turned a hobby into a purpose.
Looking back, he says those early days were actually the most fun. Even though they were learning everything on their own and the sound quality wasn’t perfect, the passion was real—and that’s what mattered.
His process evolved over time:
- Started with freestyling
- Transitioned into writing to better express himself
- Then began making his own beats
That growth helped him take full control of his sound.
Influences & Sound
Growing up in Memphis, it’s no surprise his sound was shaped by legends like Cash Money Records, Lil Wayne, Three 6 Mafia, Project Pat, Jay-Z, Dipset, and T.I..
Today, his sound isn’t boxed into one lane.
He listens to a little bit of everything and moves based on how he feels. Some days he’s in a more reflective, positive space like J. Cole… and other days he’s coming with the raw energy of Pooh Shiesty.
That versatility keeps his music real and unpredictable.
Mindset & Motivation
For Pistol Paco, motivation starts with family.
Making sure his people are in the best situation possible is what drives him in real life. But when it comes to music, it’s love that keeps him locked in.
There have been days where quitting felt easier—but the love for the craft keeps pulling him back.
Taking music seriously wasn’t optional to him. He felt like not doing so would be selling himself—and the people around him—short.
His inspiration comes from real life and that natural need to create.
Lately, he’s been moving with one mindset:
“Move with purpose.”
And one phrase that represents his identity and movement:
“House Shit Forever.”
Standout Track Right Now
Right now, Pistol Paco is pushing “Knew She Was a Freak” featuring Nif Monroe and Juanway.
The record originally came from Juanway’s vault, but while working on High Class House Shit 3, Paco knew the project needed a track like this to complete the sound.
Juanway delivered a standout hook, giving the song that nostalgic energy similar to the Ying Yang Twins era.
It’s the type of record that hits instantly—the kind you hear once and already know:
“Yeah… this one of them ones.”
Why You Should Be Paying Attention
Pistol Paco isn’t waiting on anyone to catch on.
The work is already in motion.
And his mindset is simple:
Whether people are paying attention now or not…
they’re going to wake up.
Because he’s staying consistent, staying visible, and making it impossible to ignore.
What’s Next
Pistol Paco is locked in for the rest of the year with nonstop releases and collaborations:
- “The Book of James” (with James Payne Lethal) dropping May 15, 2026
- Animal House Project coming later this year
- Joint project with BreadvsYoga
- Consistent drops and new music on the way
The goal is clear: keep working, keep building, and keep applying pressure.
All while carrying the mission forward:
#CookTheWorld 🌍
Tap In
Stay locked in with Pistol Paco and follow his journey.
Catch him in rotation on Memphis40fm
Full interview on the way via MBKS YouTube
Memphis got something to say… and MBKS is bringing it to the light. 🔥
Standout Track: Pistol Paco – Knew She Was a Freak
Listen & Follow
Spotify: Pistol Paco
YouTube: OfficialAnimalHouse
Instagram: @Pistol Paco
At MBKS, we believe in giving flowers while artists are still growing. Pistol Paco is a voice you don’t want to sleep on — and we can’t wait to see what’s next.
