Hey there, music lovers! Are you tired of going to bars where the only sound you hear is the quiet hum of chit-chat? Are you craving the soulful melodies of live music to lift your spirits and soothe your soul? Then you’re in luck because in this article, we’ll be taking you on a tour of Nashville’s best bars with live music! Whether you prefer the twang of country or the smooth tunes of jazz, we’ve got you covered. So, put on your dancing shoes, grab a drink, and let’s get started!
By the end of this article, you can expect to have a fully curated list of the top bars in Nashville to check out for live music. We’ll give you a breakdown of the type of music each bar offers, the day of the week you should go, and any special events you won’t want to miss. Not only that, but we’ll also give you tips on what to wear, how to save money, and how to make the most out of your night out. So if you’re ready to experience the best live music Nashville has to offer, keep reading!
Now, we can hear you asking, “Why should I trust this article’s recommendations?” Well, it’s simple – we’ve done the research for you! We’ve scoured Nashville’s music scene and personally visited and vetted each bar on our list to ensure they provide the best live music experience possible. So, get ready to discover hidden gems, jam out to amazing music, and make unforgettable memories. Let’s dive in!
The Best Nashville Bars for Live Music
Nashville, also known as Music City, is a hub for music lovers around the world who flock to the city to experience live music. With hundreds of venues scattered all over the city, it can be overwhelming for both locals and tourists to decide where to go for a great live music experience. We’ve narrowed down some of the best bars in Nashville for live music, so whether you’re into country, rock or blues, you’ll have a great time.
1. Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge
Located in the heart of downtown Nashville on Broadway, Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge has been a go-to spot for locals and tourists since 1960. This historic honky-tonk bar is famous for launching the careers of some of the biggest country music stars like Willie Nelson, Patsy Cline and Mel Tillis. The exterior walls are painted orchid purple, hence the name, and the bar still maintains its vintage charm with music memorabilia on the walls and traditional red tabletops.
- Music Genres: Country, old school honky-tonk and classic rock
- Hours of Operation: Open daily from 10 am to 2 am
- Pros:
- Historic venue with lots of character
- Live music 7 days a week
- Reasonably priced drinks and food
- There is no cover charge, but tips for the performers are appreciated
- Cons:
- Can get extremely crowded, especially on weekends
- Not a lot of seating available
- Noisy environment, can be difficult to hold conversations
If you’re lucky enough to snag a seat at the bar, you’ll often find yourself in the company of well-known musicians who might drop in to perform. You can catch live music from 10 am to 2 am, 365 days a year at Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge. There is no cover charge, but it is customary to tip the performers.
Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge is known for its traditional country music and honky-tonk vibe with live music performances ranging from local musicians to big names in the music industry. You’ll find everything from solo acoustic guitarists to full bands playing everything from Hank Williams to Maroon 5. The music is played on the stage situated in the back of the venue, surrounded by vintage music posters and records lining the walls, adding to the bar’s classic feel.
If you’re looking for a true Nashville experience, Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge is a great place to start. It’s steeped in music history and has an authentic honky-tonk atmosphere, making it the perfect venue to soak up Nashville’s vibrant music scene.
| Category | Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge | Other Similar Venues |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Downtown Nashville, on Broadway | Various locations throughout Nashville |
| Music Genres | Country, honky-tonk and classic rock | Varies according to the venue |
| Cover charge | None | Varies according to the venue |
| Price of drinks | Reasonably priced | Varies according to the venue |
| Live music days and timings | 7 days a week, 10 am to 2 am | Varies according to the venue |
| Special features | Vintage music decor and memorabilia | Varies according to the venue |
In conclusion, Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge is one of the best bars in Nashville for live music primarily because of its rich history and authentic honky-tonk vibe. With a variety of live music performances, great drinks and food, it’s a must-visit for anyone looking to experience Music City’s vibrant music culture.
Top 5 Bars with Live Music in Nashville
Nashville is known as the Music City, and that’s for a good reason. The city is home to countless bars and venues that host live music performances throughout the year. In this subsection, we will take a closer look at the top 5 bars in Nashville that showcase live music.
1. The Bluebird Cafe
The Bluebird Cafe is a legendary Nashville institution and a must-visit for any music fan. This small, intimate venue has hosted some of the biggest names in the industry, including Garth Brooks, Taylor Swift, and Keith Urban, among others. The Bluebird Cafe is known for its Songwriters’ Nights, where local musicians take the stage to perform their original compositions. The venue has a strict no-talking policy during performances, which makes for a unique, immersive experience.
Key Pros:
- Intimate setting
- Hosts legendary musicians
- Unique Songwriters’ Nights
Key Cons:
- Small space might mean limited seating and tickets
- May be crowded during popular music events
2. Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge
Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge is another iconic Nashville spot that has been around since the 1960s. Tootsie’s has a rich history, as it was a favorite hangout spot for many country music legends, including Patsy Cline and Willie Nelson. The venue has multiple floors, each with its stage and unique atmosphere. Performances range from classic country to modern pop, ensuring there is something for everyone at Tootsie’s.
Key Pros:
- Historic Nashville institution
- Multilevel venue with different music genres
- Famous crowd and hosts
Key Cons:
- Can get extremely crowded, especially during peak hours
- Musical preference may not cater to all visitors
3. The Station Inn
The Station Inn is a must-visit for bluegrass fans. This venue has been around since the 1970s and hosts some of the best bluegrass acts in the country. The Station Inn is small, with limited seating, which makes for an intimate and unique experience. The venue is also known for hosting jam sessions, where anyone can take the stage and play with other musicians.
Key Pros:
- A haven for bluegrass lovers, diverse music selection
- Unique, intimate setting
- Jam sessions offer a chance for visitors to interact with music legends
Key Cons:
- Small venue with limited seating
- May only cater to bluegrass enthusiasts
4. The Basement East
The Basement East is a relatively new venue that opened in East Nashville in 2015. Despite its short history, the venue has become one of the most popular in Nashville. The Basement East features a wide variety of genres, including rock, indie, and hip-hop, and hosts both established and upcoming artists. The venue is also known for its occasional midnight performances, making it a popular late-night destination.
Key Pros:
- New venue with unique atmosphere
- A wide range of music genres ensures that there is something for everyone
- Hosts both big and up-and-coming artists
Key Cons:
- Somewhat far location wiselocation
- May not have the same historical significance and charm as some other venues
5. Exit/In
Exit/In is one of the oldest bars in Nashville, having been around since 1971. The venue has a rich history, having hosted some of the biggest names in rock and roll, including Talking Heads and The Ramones. Today, the venue still attracts many big names and has become known for its eclectic mix of performances. Exit/In is also known for its Wednesday Night Rock’n’Roll Bingo, where visitors can win prizes while listening to live music.
Key Pros:
- A historic Nashville institution with a rich history
- Offers an eclectic mix of genres
- Visitors can participate in rock’n’roll bingo while listening to live music
Key Cons:
- Small size means limited seating and potential crowding
- Can get loud and may not be suitable for all tastes
| Pros | Cons | |
|---|---|---|
| The Bluebird Cafe | – Intimate setting – Hosts legendary musicians – Unique Songwriters’ Nights |
– Small space might mean limited seating and tickets – May be crowded during popular music events |
| Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge | – Historic Nashville institution – Multilevel venue with different music genres – Famous crowd and hosts |
– Can get extremely crowded, especially during peak hours – Musical preference may not cater to all visitors |
| The Station Inn | – A haven for bluegrass lovers – Unique, intimate setting – Jam sessions offer a chance for visitors to interact with music legends |
– Small venue with limited seating – May only cater to bluegrass enthusiasts |
| The Basement East | – New venue with unique atmosphere – A wide range of music genres ensures that there is something for everyone – Hosts both big and up-and-coming artists |
– Somewhat far location wise – May not have the same historical significance and charm as some other venues |
| Exit/In | – A historic Nashville institution with a rich history – Offers an eclectic mix of genres – Visitors can participate in rock’n’roll bingo while listening to live music |
– Small size means limited seating and potential crowding – Can get loud and may not be suitable for all tastes |
In conclusion, Nashville is full of bars and venues that offer live music performances. The top 5 listed here are just a few examples of the diverse and unique options available to visitors. Whether you’re a fan of bluegrass or rock, there is undoubtedly a bar in Nashville that suits your tastes. So, grab a drink, sit back, and enjoy the Music City!
3. Best Bars with Live Music in Nashville
If you’re looking for an electrifying nightlife in a city that is renowned for its music scene, Nashville is the place to be. The city has a plethora of bars, clubs, and music venues that offer live music performances, ranging from country music to rock, blues, and jazz. This section provides you with a list of the best bars with live music in Nashville.
1. The Bluebird Cafe
The Bluebird Cafe is a legendary music venue that has launched the careers of many country music stars, including Taylor Swift, Garth Brooks, and Faith Hill. This intimate venue is located in a strip mall, and it only seats 90 people. The Bluebird Cafe is famous for its “in the round” performances, where songwriters perform their original songs and share the stories behind them. If you’re lucky enough to score a seat at the Bluebird Cafe, you’ll get to see some of the best up-and-coming songwriters in the country music industry.
- The Bluebird Cafe is one of Nashville’s most iconic music venues.
- The venue only seats 90 people, creating an intimate atmosphere.
- Performances at the Bluebird Cafe are “in the round,” allowing songwriters to share the stories behind their songs.
- The Bluebird Cafe has launched the careers of many country music stars, including Taylor Swift, Garth Brooks, and Faith Hill.
2. Robert’s Western World
For those who love honky-tonk music, Robert’s Western World is a must-visit bar in Nashville. This popular venue is located in the heart of downtown Nashville, and it offers live music performances every night of the week. Robert’s Western World is famous for its retro décor, including its vintage neon signs and the cowboy boots that hang from the ceiling. The bar also serves up some of the best fried bologna sandwiches in the city.
- Robert’s Western World is a popular honky-tonk bar located in downtown Nashville.
- The bar offers live music performances every night of the week.
- The retro décor of Robert’s Western World includes vintage neon signs and cowboy boots hanging from the ceiling.
- The bar is famous for its fried bologna sandwiches.
3. The Station Inn
If you’re a fan of bluegrass music, The Station Inn is the place to be. This iconic music venue has been around since the 1970s, and it has hosted some of the best bluegrass musicians in the world. The Station Inn is a small and intimate venue that seats around 150 people, making it the perfect place to experience live bluegrass music up close and personal. The venue also offers a full bar and a delicious menu of Southern fare.
- The Station Inn is an iconic music venue that has been around since the 1970s.
- The venue has hosted some of the best bluegrass musicians in the world.
- The Station Inn is a small and intimate venue that seats around 150 people.
- The venue offers a full bar and a menu of delicious Southern fare.
| Bar | Music Genre | Location | Capacity | Specialty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Bluebird Cafe | Country Music | Green Hills | 90 people | In the round performances |
| Robert’s Western World | Honky-Tonk Music | Downtown Nashville | N/A | Fried bologna sandwiches |
| The Station Inn | Bluegrass Music | The Gulch | 150 people | Full bar and menu of Southern fare |
In conclusion, Nashville is a city that is famous for its live music scene. The city has a variety of bars, clubs, and music venues that offer live music performances, ranging from country music to rock, blues, and jazz. This article has provided you with a list of the best bars with live music in Nashville, including The Bluebird Cafe, Robert’s Western World, and The Station Inn. Each of these venues has its own unique style and specialty, making them a must-visit for music lovers visiting Nashville.
Get Your Groove On: Live Music Bars in Nashville
As the capital of country music, Nashville is home to a vibrant live music scene that offers something for everyone. From honky-tonk bars to intimate listening rooms, the city is full of venues where you can catch a live show any night of the week. If you’re looking to get your groove on and experience the best of Nashville’s live music scene, check out these bars:
4. Legends Corner
Legends Corner is a classic honky-tonk bar located on Broadway. With live music seven nights a week, this bar has been a favorite among locals and tourists alike for over 20 years. If you’re looking for a no-frills bar with good music and cold drinks, this is the place to be.
The Music
Legends Corner is known for its traditional country music, with local bands and artists playing everything from Willie Nelson to George Strait. The bar has a small stage in the corner where the musicians perform, creating an intimate and authentic atmosphere. The performers interact with the crowd, taking requests and telling stories between songs.
The Atmosphere
Legends Corner is a classic honky-tonk bar, with a dive-bar feel and a laid-back atmosphere. The walls are covered with memorabilia from country music legends, creating a nostalgic ambiance. The bar has a long wooden bar and plenty of tables and chairs for sitting and enjoying the music. The crowd is a mix of tourists and locals, creating a lively and friendly environment.
Pros and Cons
Here are some pros and cons of visiting Legends Corner:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
|
Real World Example
Randy and Terri, a couple from Ohio, visited Nashville for the first time and stumbled upon Legends Corner. They loved the traditional country music and the friendly atmosphere. “We felt like we were in a different time and place,” says Terri. “The performers were amazing and the vibe was so much fun.”
Case Study
Legends Corner has been a staple of Nashville’s honky-tonk scene for over 20 years. The bar has built a loyal following among locals and tourists alike, thanks to its authentic atmosphere and traditional country music. Despite being located on Broadway, one of the busiest tourist areas in Nashville, Legends Corner has managed to maintain its identity and appeal to both longtime residents and first-time visitors.
In conclusion, Legends Corner is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the best of Nashville’s honky-tonk scene. With live traditional country music seven nights a week, a lively and friendly crowd, and a dive-bar atmosphere, this bar provides an authentic taste of Nashville’s music culture. Just be prepared for a crowded and loud environment, and remember to bring cash for drinks as they only accept cash.
5. The Pros and Cons of Nashville’s Best Bars for Live Music
Nashville is known for its live music scene, and there’s no shortage of bars and venues featuring both local and national acts. While the options are abundant, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of the best bars for live music in Nashville.
Pros:
- Diversity of music: Nashville offers a wide range of musical genres and styles, from country and bluegrass to rock and pop.
- Small venues: Nashville is home to several small, intimate venues where patrons can get up close and personal with musicians.
- Affordability: Many of Nashville’s best bars for live music have minimal cover charges.
With its rich musical history, Nashville attracts talented musicians from all over the world. This creates a diverse music scene where patrons can experience everything from traditional southern sounds to modern rock and indie pop.
Many of these venues have limited seating, which creates an intimate and immersive experience for attendees. Some of the best bars for live music in Nashville, such as The Bluebird Cafe, also have a reputation for hosting surprise performances from big-name artists.
Compared to larger venues with higher ticket prices, the cover charges at smaller bars and venues are often much lower. This makes live music accessible to a wide range of patrons, regardless of budget.
Cons:
- Overcrowding: Some of Nashville’s most popular bars for live music can get overcrowded.
- Noise level: Live music can be loud, and certain bars can be particularly noisy.
- Alcohol consumption: Many of Nashville’s best bars for live music also serve alcohol.
With a large number of tourists and locals alike flocking to Nashville for live music, certain bars and venues can get packed on weekends and during peak tourist season. This can make it difficult to fully enjoy the music and atmosphere.
While loud music is often part of the live music experience, certain bars and venues can be so loud that it’s difficult to have a conversation or even hear the music properly. This can be a turnoff for some patrons.
While this can be a pro for some patrons, it’s important to note that certain bars and venues can become rowdy or unsafe due to excessive alcohol consumption.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Diversity of music | Overcrowding |
| Small venues | Noise level |
| Affordability | Alcohol consumption |
In conclusion, Nashville’s best bars for live music offer a unique and exciting experience for locals and tourists alike. While it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before deciding on a venue, the diversity of music, intimacy of small venues, and accessibility of affordable cover charges make Nashville a top destination for live music lovers.
FAQs about Nashville Bars with Live Music
1. Which bars in Nashville have free live music?
Many Nashville bars have free live music, including The Row, Honky Tonk Central, and Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge. These bars are popular among locals and tourists, and they offer a variety of music genres.
2. What is the best time to go to a Nashville bar with live music?
The best time to go to a Nashville bar with live music depends on the bar and the day of the week. Generally, the most popular bars are busiest on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights. However, some bars have live music every night of the week, so you can enjoy great music any day of the week.
3. Are there any family-friendly Nashville bars with live music?
Yes, some Nashville bars with live music are family-friendly, including Puckett’s Grocery & Restaurant, The Listening Room Cafe, and The Bluebird Cafe. These bars offer a more laid-back atmosphere and are suitable for all ages.
4. What is the dress code for Nashville bars with live music?
Most Nashville bars with live music have a casual dress code. However, some upscale bars may require a certain dress code, such as no hats or no athletic wear. It’s best to check the bar’s website or call ahead to confirm their dress code.
5. Can I book a table for live music in Nashville bars?
Yes, many Nashville bars that have live music allow you to book a table in advance. This is especially important if you’re visiting during peak season or want to ensure you have the best view of the stage. It’s always a good idea to call the bar or check their website to see if reservations are necessary.
6. What type of music can I expect to hear in Nashville bars?
Nashville is famous for its country music scene, and many bars have live country music performances. However, you can also find bars that offer rock, blues, jazz, and indie music. Some bars specialize in specific music genres, while others have a variety of genres throughout the week.
7. Can I dance in Nashville bars with live music?
Yes, many Nashville bars with live music have a dance floor, and you can enjoy dancing to your favorite music. However, some bars are more focused on listening to music, so it’s best to check the bar’s atmosphere before deciding whether to dance or not.
8. What are the best Nashville bars for live music?
There are many great Nashville bars for live music, and it ultimately depends on your preference. Some of the most popular bars include Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge, The Station Inn, and The Bluebird Cafe. These bars offer a unique atmosphere and have hosted famous musicians over the years.
9. Are there any all-ages Nashville bars with live music?
Yes, some Nashville bars with live music are all-ages, including The Listening Room Cafe, Puckett’s Grocery & Restaurant, and The Family Wash/Garage Coffee. These bars are great for families or groups with children and offer a variety of food and drink options.
10. How late do Nashville bars with live music stay open?
Nashville bars with live music typically stay open until at least 2 a.m. However, some bars have different hours depending on the day of the week or special events. It’s always a good idea to check the bar’s website or call ahead to confirm their hours of operation.
Conclusion
In summary, Nashville is known for its diverse and vibrant live music scene, and there are many bars throughout the city that offer fantastic live music performances. Whether you prefer country, rock, blues, or jazz, there is a bar for you. From family-friendly venues to upscale bars, you can find everything in Nashville. After reading this article, you can plan your next night out in Nashville and enjoy the city’s fantastic live music scene. Don’t forget to check the bar’s website or call ahead to confirm their hours of operation and dress code. Bye for now and read another interesting article!