Nashville Music Scene
The name Nashville is often associated with great singers and soulful songwriters. Musicians from this city are often exceptionally talented. With a reputation like that, one would assume that anyone seeking to make a career in the music business would want to keep up with what is happening in this city. To get the fullest understanding of the music scene in Nashville, you need to check out the live performances all over the city. Regardless of whether you are trying to make it big or just curious, here’s is a list of the places to observe the raw talent of this city.
Mercy Lounge
Mercy Lounge is one of the most popular places in Downtown Nashville to check out the raw talent of this city. This location also attracts some well established players in the business like The White Stripes and even John Fogerty. The main building houses 2 separate venues; these are The High Watt and The Cannery Ballroom. You are in for a treat regardless of the room you choose to visit.
The Station Inn
The Station Inn has developed quite a reputation for helping up and coming artists find their way. Many can recall watching the great Dolly Parton blossom as she performed here quite a lot. Stars like Alison Krauss, Reba McEntire and Ralph Stanley have all performed on this stage. Can imagine how happy their fans were to watch them perform on this very intimate stage? You are in for a treat the next time you plan a trip here.
Marathon Music Works
Marathon Music Works is a live music venue that is located in the building which once housed the Marathon Works Factory. This location can host up to 1500 music lovers all at once and the vibe here during these live performances is incredible. This stage is reserved for artists who are on their way up and too well established for local bars. Rumor has it that once you put on a great show here, you are well on your way to making it big in the music industry.
Exit/In
This oddly names location has seen performances by some of the greatest Nashville Musicians of all time. Imagine watching a live performance while imaging what it was like when the great Johnny Cash perform on that very stage just a few years ago. The focus here is on the quality of the music and not on the hype. The best seat in the house is the balcony. It may be small, but it gives you a bird’s eye view of all the raw talent on the stage.
The Basement East
The Basement East may not actually be a basement, but it lives up to its name by being one of the best places to hear live music in Nashville. It can only accommodate about 400 people, so you will need to get there early to secure your spot. Many have made their very first musical debut here and a few of the performances are by artists who return after making it big. The beauty of this venue is that it also has a bar which serves some of the best sandwiches in town.