All Posts

Today, December 13, 2025, we at Welcome to the Cookout  honor the life of Abraham Quintanilla — a man whose story reminds us that music, family, and community are deeply connected. Father of the legendary Selena, Abraham’s life was built on love, vision, and the belief that nurturing talent starts at home and spreads into the world. Abraham was born in Corpus Christi, Texas, in 1939, the first of seven children in a Mexican-American family. From a young age, he was drawn to m

Laughing Through Life: The Rise of SillyMee Hinds

PODGY SMITH — THE UNORTHODOX ARCHITECT OF ARKANSAS

When a song hits before it even drops, you know it’s special.That’s exactly what happened with “Popular,”  the brand-new single from Memphis artist FAYRO—an undeniable, high-energy party record that already has crowds singing it back word for word. First previewed at his live shows, “Popular” instantly took on a life of its own. Fans jumped in, matched his energy, and turned it into a moment. No forced promotion. No rollout tricks. Just a record that hit people straight in th

Syng Saikou: A Memphis Story Told Through Soul, Fire, and Fearless R&B

Candi Williams: Guiding Hearts and Minds Toward Balance, Purpose, and Growth

The Qymists: Where Sound Meets Chemistry

Empress Joyce Howard: The Modern-Day Civil Rights Songstress Elevating Music and Community

Community Spotlight: The Black & White Affair — Love, Legacy & Healing in Memphis Every year, Always Giving Back Memphis (AGB)  brings the city together for something special — The Black & White Affair.  It’s not just another gala. It’s a night filled with purpose, remembrance, and unity  — honoring the Greater Memphis Parents of Murdered Children Chapter (GMPOMC)  and the families who carry their memories forward with strength. This year’s event was no different — it was pow

C.L. Williams is the heartbeat of Memphis — a Navy veteran and founder of Always Giving Back Memphis who’s constantly serving, supporting, and uplifting the city. From charity events to the annual Black & White Affair, his work reminds us what true community looks like. Welcome to the Cookout Podcast, powered by Cymph’s Kitchen, proudly honors his legacy of love, leadership, and service.

La Chat: Memphis Royalty Pulls Up to the Cookout By Welcome to the Cookout When you talk about Memphis hip-hop, there’s no way around her name — La Chat . A certified legend, a survivor, and a voice that’s still as raw and real as the day she stepped into the game. On this week’s episode of Welcome to the Cookout , La Chat pulled up with her partner Goat Ape  for an unforgettable conversation that felt less like an interview and more like family catching up over a plate of fo

Welcome to the Cookout Podcast Pull up a chair and grab a plate— Welcome to the Cookout Podcast  is officially here. Hosted by Fayro  and Cymphani Cyrine , this is more than a podcast—it’s a vibe. Think backyard cookout, Sunday meal with family, laughter, stories, and good energy flowing all around the table. What It’s All About At Welcome to the Cookout , we sit down with artists, entrepreneurs, and creative minds who are making moves and leaving their mark. The conversation