things to do on music row in nashville tn

Things To Do On Music Row In Nashville, TN

Music Row in Nashville is synonymous with the country music industry. It’s where dreams are made, songs are written, and stars are born. Whether you’re a die-hard country fan or simply curious about the music business, a visit to Music Row is a must-do when in Nashville.

What is Music Row?

Music Row, primarily centered around 16th Avenue South (“Music Square East”) and 17th Avenue South (“Music Square West”), is the heart of Nashville’s country music scene. It’s packed with recording studios, radio stations, record label offices, and other businesses related to the music industry. According to Wikipedia’s article on Music Row, the area began its transformation in the 1950s and 60s and has been a central hub ever since.

Exploring the Iconic Recording Studios

While many studios are private and don’t offer public tours, you can still admire them from the outside and soak in the history. Some notable studios include:

• RCA Studio B: Though technically off Music Row, it’s extremely close and considered part of the area’s legacy. It’s famous for being where Elvis Presley recorded many of his hits. Tours are available through the Country Music Hall of Fame.
• Columbia Studio A: A legendary studio where artists like Bob Dylan and Johnny Cash have recorded.
• Quonset Hut Studio: Another historic studio, it’s a key location in the development of the “Nashville Sound”.

Soak Up the Atmosphere

Simply walking around Music Row is an experience in itself. You can:

• Look for famous music publishing companies like Sony/ATV and Warner Chappell Music.
• Spot famous artists in the area.
• Grab lunch at a local eatery frequented by industry professionals.

Visit the Owen Bradley Park

Located at the intersection of 16th Avenue South and Demonbreun Street, Owen Bradley Park is a small green space dedicated to the legendary record producer Owen Bradley. It features a bronze statue of Bradley sitting at a piano and is a great place to take a break and reflect on the history of Music Row.

Look for Landmarks and Statues

Keep an eye out for other landmarks and statues honoring country music legends. These include:

• The Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum: A celebration of the musicians behind the stars, not strictly *on* Music Row, but nearby and worth a visit.
• The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum: Not directly on music row but nearby and a definite must see.

Frequently Asked Questions About Music Row

What exactly is Music Row known for?

Music Row is known as the center of Nashville’s country music industry, housing recording studios, publishing houses, and record label offices.

Can I tour the recording studios on Music Row?

While many studios are private, RCA Studio B offers tours through the Country Music Hall of Fame. Other studios can only be viewed from the outside.

Is Music Row walkable?

Yes, Music Row is very walkable. It’s a compact area best explored on foot to soak in the atmosphere.

Are there restaurants and bars on Music Row?

Yes, there are several restaurants and bars in and around Music Row, many of which are frequented by music industry professionals.

How far is Music Row from downtown Nashville?

Music Row is located a short distance from downtown Nashville, about a 5-10 minute drive, or a longer walk.

Summary

A visit to Music Row offers a fascinating glimpse into the heart of the country music industry. While you might not get to tour every studio, simply walking the streets, visiting Owen Bradley Park, and soaking in the atmosphere is a worthwhile experience for any music lover visiting Nashville.