Hot Spots
Quintessential Experiences: A Musical Pilgrimage
The Grand Ole Opry and the Country Music Hall of Fame appeal to a fairly broad audience, but true fans will want to delve deeper into Nashville's country music culture, both past and present. Here are some essential stops to add to your itinerary:
— The Ryman Auditorium: This historic theater completed in 1892 housed the Grand Ole Opry from 1943 to 1974 and has become known as the "Mother Church of Country Music." After a thorough restoration in the mid-1990s, the Ryman is again active as a concert hall and hosts winter performances of the Grand Ole Opry. Check the online events schedule at www.ryman.com for concert information, or stop by in the daytime for a tour.
— Tootsie's Orchid Lounge: When the Grand Ole Opry was still based at the Ryman Auditorium, musicians used to slip out for drinks at this funky two-story bar and live music venue just around the corner. Today the walls are covered with several decade's worth of photographs and other memorabilia from illustrious past customers. Stop by for a drink, and there's still a chance you might catch an impromptu set by a well-known guest artist. See www.tootsies.net for details.
— Ernest Tubb's Record Shop: Founded by the late "Texas Troubadour" Ernest Tubb, this venerable music shop has been catering to country and western fans for more than 50 years. Tubb's features an extensive collection of albums for sale, and a Saturday night post-Opry radio broadcast billed as "America's second longest running radio show." Formerly housed at the original Ernest Tubb's location downtown, the Midnite Jamboree radio show now takes place at the Texas Troubadour Theatre. See www.etrecordshop.com for details.
— The Bluebird Cafe: This tiny 25-year-old music club is a good place to catch quality country acts in an environment where customers refrain from conversation and really pay attention to the musicians. Most nights feature lesser-known artists, though Garth Brooks and other big-name performers have been known to take the stage. See www.bluebirdcafe.com for details.
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