I just did a search for "lilacs" using the search function at the bottom of the Tennessee Forum page. It looks like this same subject has been discussed about 29 different times just on this forum alone! If you will search through previous posts, I think you will find many answers to your questions.

We bought a lilac last spring and it is doing well and about to bloom here soon. Not sure on the variety but I will consult my plant encyclopedia (ie. my husband) and get back to you. The only problem we had was late in the season last year and it developed powdery mildew.

Rebecca

I've been told that Miss Kim may do well down here.

My mom is from Indiana and is determined to grow lilacs here in Memphis. I tell her that's what Crepe Myrtles are for! lol

It just doesn't get and stay cold enough here for lilacs to flourish.

TN is a big state with very different zones from east to west, so it really depends on where you are. Here in E TN, I have about 2 dozen lilacs which are thriving, but we get cooler summers and colder winters. These are the original purple, and I have one blue called 'Pres. Lincoln'.
I bought a lilac for my mom bout 5 years ago; they live south of Nashville, and it is doing very well. It gets shade in the afternoon so that probably helps.