In all honesty, don't set your sights too high with regard to Memphis. The areas around Graceland (with the exception of Graceland)are actually very dangerous. Make sure you know exactly where you are going within in the city before you go there, because the roads are confusing and a wrong turn could get you in deep trouble. Bottomline, this ain't the Memphis Elvis would remember. But as far as BBQ is concerned, Corky's is a Memphis BBQ icon, but I think Topps is probably a little more "authentic". There are several of both within the city.
Thanks for all the replies. I'm hip to not staying at a hotel where you said, but where then is a safe place to bed down for the night? Do we want to stay 20 miles away in some suburb? We aren't looking for luxury accomadations, but a nice place like a Quality or Comfort Inn.
Thanks again. Your help has been most illuminating.