Griff Rhys Jones explores the history of Memphis, discovering the story behind Elvis Presley's big break as well as many of the other stars that made their name there, including Jerry Lee Lewis, Muddy Waters, Johnny Cash, BB King, Al Green, Otis Redding and Robert Johnson. He also visits the Peabody Hotel for the famous duck parade.

Griff Rhys Jones checks in to Charleston, South Carolina, which has a controversial history but also demonstrates the absolute southern charm. He visits the fort that saw the first fighting of the American Civil War, and discovers how everything that makes Charleston the great city it is today was underpinned by change brought about by the emancipation of enslaved people.