Only Place We'll Stay in Memphis
If you are coming to Memphis for music, food and fun, the Hampton Inn on Beale Street should be your first choice. You can't beat the proximity to Beale Street--just steps outside your door. Of course, this means you'll be hearing the music 'til late late at night (or early early morning), but that only adds to the ambiance (we opened our balcony door every night and fell asleep to the tunes). 
On the more practical side, the hotel is very clean (a must for me) and recently renovated so nothing looks old or worn. The morning breakfast is standard Hampton quality--decent hot and cold choices--enough to keep us going until we could map out lunch and dinner from all the the great nearby restaurants. Parking is free and convenient.
We found the area safe for nighttime walking--you just need to be aware as you would in any city. The hotel takes extra security measures since it's so centrally located (have to use your card to access the building and elevators). Very friendly and efficient housekeeping and front desk staff.
We'll be returning for our next Memphis visit!