Ready, y’all? Time to kick up our boots and celebrate country music! The Country Music Association and the industry recognize and celebrate the month of October as “Country Music Month.” I know what you are thinking. Isn’t every month country music month in Nashville?
The official recognition began in 1964 and was created to bring awareness and recognition to the industry and history of country music. Country music allegedly began in the 1920’s in the southern United States. Also known as hillbilly music or country-western music, it evolved from folk and blues music. Country music evolved over the decades and continues to be ever-changing. I love living in the Nashville area because we can catch up-and-coming singers and songwriters at local bars such as Tootsies, the Bluebird Cafe — or anywhere up and down Broadway. Many artists got their starts right here!
Another cool thing about living in Nashville? We can get in on the celebration all month long! Here are a few of my suggestions:
Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame
The Country Music Hall of Fame is located in the heart of downtown. They have permanent and temporary exhibits highlighting the history of the country music genre and the artists of the industry. There are many family friendly events going on in October, check out the full list here. Per their website, “Youth from Davidson and bordering counties may enter the museum free, as part of the museum initiative Community Counts. Up to two accompanying adults receive 25 percent off admission. Proof of residency required. For more information, please visit Community Counts or inquire at the museum box office.”
Tour the Ryman
The Ryman is known as the “Mother Church of country music.” Built in 1892, it has been a staple in the industry for many years. Hosting the Grand Ole Opry show until 1974, now it serves as a live-music venue for artists spanning many genres. This venue is also in the heart of downtown Nashville and serves as a stop for many tourists! For more information on how to do a tour, click here.
Go to the Grand Ole Opry
I admit, I grew up as a native Tennesseean, listening to country music since birth. My first cassette tape was Alan Jackson “Here in the Real World” and my first concerts were Alabama and Travis Tritt. But I did not go to a Grand Ole Opry show until I was 32 years old. I suggest that if you have never been, you remedy that ASAP! You can catch legendary artists as well as country newcomers, all while sitting on a church pew, enjoying some country tunes. Get your tickets today by visiting this link.
Catch a Show at the Famous Bluebird Cafe
The Bluebird Cafe is not in the downtown area. Instead, it is nestled in the shops of the Green Hills/Hillsboro area. It is located in a strip mall, and if you blink, you might miss it. The Bluebird has been recognized as a songwriter’s performance space — performing their songs in an acoustic, intimate environment. The audience is small, so get there early to get a seat. The exciting part of attending a show here is you never know who might show up to surprise the audience. I suggest adding this to your bucket list as a must do experience. The calendar of events can be found here and you can make reservations — which is highly recommended.
Visit The Johnny Cash Museum
The Johnny Cash Museum is located off Third Street, in downtown Nashville. You will find many artifacts belonging to the late Johnny Cash. You can purchase tickets online, or at the door. Kids 5 and under are free!
Take a walk along the Music City Walk of Fame
The Music City Walk of Fame is a landmark tribute to those of all genres of music who have contributed to the music industry, and have a connection to Nashville. Stroll through, find your favorite country artists and take pictures. The park is is located on Demonbruen, between 4th and 5th Avenues. If you are looking for a particular artist/star, you can find the list here.
So go! Enjoy the month of October, and celebrate by listening to your favorite country tunes. Visit some must-see places and celebrate all that is country music!
Great job Heather.
Thank you for reading!