Welcome to Tennessee
Be sure to spend plenty of time in Nashville, known as Music City USA. We have tons of Country Music artists, and other eclectic styles.

Check the Nashville newspaper, 'tenneseean.com' for spots to check out the local musicians as well as big names. You won't be disappointed if you come to Nashville.
Maryellen - just a music lover

Hello,

I am an engineer/producer/co-owner of a recording studio in Memphis, TN called Unclaimed Recordings. We have been in business for close to a year now and are currently making preparations to move the studio to a new location. My Uncle lives in Texas and referred me to your website last night because he noticed that you would be coming to visit Memphis soon.
We currently operate our studio using the theory that the overwhelming majority of current musical talent in Memphis has not yet been heard because none of them can afford to record their music at any of the more well known studios in town. Therefore we have allied ourselves with a local record label that caters to these musicians called Makeshift Music (www.makeshiftmusic.com). We cut deals with these artist at very affordable rates and Makeshift then helps the artist to release the albums.
We recently completed a compilation entitled Makeshift 4. It features 46 tracks of new local music and has received very good reviews (http://www.memphisflyer.com/memphis/Content?oid=oid%3A12250). About a third of the compilation was recorded using donated recording time at Unclaimed, where it was also sequenced and mastered.
Besides the compiliation, we have been working on a total of fourteen albums from Memphis bands. Only one of which has been released. Taking cues from the popular music of the sixties and seventies, we try and utilize instruments that are not generally used in today's radio pop such as horns, strings, pianos.. etc.
For the past year we have been working nonstop on this music without any regard to making money. All of us that are involved work day jobs to support ourselves. I myself sleep in the floor of the studio and have made a profit of only $80 in the past year. The rest of the money has gone to paying rent and upgrading studio equipment.
Thank you for taking the time to read this message, and I hope that you will give our music a listen and let us know what you think. If you are interested we would be happy to meet with you when you are traveling through memphis.

Jefferson Brendan Danley

hear sound samples at:
www.makeshiftmusic.com
http://www.myspace.com/unclaimedrecordings

Wilst in Nashville be sure and visit Kurt Wagner and Lambchop.

Anyone know if Prince Mongo's Planet in Memphis is still around? That was one of the all-time weirdest nights I've spent in a bar. I just did a google search for Prince Mongo and I learned about the man behind the bar. Now it sort of makes sense. AHAHA.

If still around, check this three-story night club out. Lots of fun.

I spent my college years in Memphis. IF you make it through in May, check out the Beale St. Music festival. http://www.memphisinmay.org

Stop by F Scott's - a local jazz club in the Greens Hills area of Nashville on most any Thursday night and hear the Beegie Adair trio - simply the best in jazz piano standards.

If you're ere on a Wednesday, stop by 3rd & Lindley, you can catch the Wooten Brothers (related to the 2 that played with Bela fleck for many years). Check the calendar. http://www.3rdandlindsley.com/

Great stuff everyone. Jefferson would love to check out the compilation = maybe stop by.

Adding all these names to my list - will try to pack in as much as I can. Bummed taht I'll be missing the Beale st. festival. Mongo's planet sounds intriguing. What kind of music? T.

You have to check out the Peter Moon Band. I saw then in Knoxville a couple of years ago. They play in the Nashville area most of the time. They are VERY good, well worth the stop off. You can check his web site to hear a few songs http://www.petermoon.com/

Fuck That, stop by Spankies in Cookeville and ask for Double D or Rhyan from Dimples Malone. We can have fun and drink at the same time. I know , its fascinating, but it happens. rock, rhyan

I'm a band director in Milan, in West TN and live in Jackson, TN. Jackson is located on I-40 between Memphis and Nashville. It's the home of Carl Perkins (Bluesuade Shoes)and the Rock-A-Billy Hall of Fame. There are several local bands like The Grove, Peacemeal, Joe McKinney Project and Taco & Da Mofos that play at clubs like Barley's Brew House Jimmy D's, Tequila Joe's and The Downtown Tavern. Check out the local newspaper's (The Jackson Sun) section Get Out for list of local entertainment. jacksonsun.com
Thanks for all the work you put into Pandora, I enjoy listening and passing your site along to others. Good luck finding new artist on the road trip. If you need help as you get closer to Jackson e-mail me and I'll be glad to do what I can.
Thanks again,
Gary Reeves

Since this is as close as you are getting to Kentucky, don't miss this opportunity to explore a new voice singing the lives of the many invisible Americans. What rap / hip-hop are to the urban culture, the Trailer Park Troubadours are to the unzoned cul de sac. More than simply passion and the occassional clever rhyme, there is musicianship, cleverness, style and talent.

In the mode of a kinder, gentler, and more rock a billy Randy Newman; a Martin Mull with conviction; Modern Man with focus; a more melodic Loudon Wainwright III -- Antsy McClain and the Trailer Park Troubadours have established a legion of devoted "flamingo head" followers.

And they're good.

Me, I'm just another fan. Check them out.

It may be too late already but there is a lot of music in Chattanooga. You might at least consider it...

And I can't freaking believe you're going to Hattiesburg - my old hometown where I grew up! The Thirsty Hippo is a hole in the wall but it brings back some memories...Have fun - those H-towners are crazy - especially when they're drunk.

Since your are going to Tennesee, you must make a stop in Nashville and find Victor Mecyssne. He operates out of Nashville and has a style that is closer to Lyle Lovett than anyone but not exactly. He does mostly his own compositions. I saw him and his band in Evansville, IN twice and would love to see him hit it big because he is very good and different.

Contact information from a cd that I have is as follows. Villa Vee Music, PO Box 121624, Nashville,TN 37212. There was also a website that may still be there. www.sweetfish.com

Good luck on your trip and I love your stations.

Tom Stahl

Also, off the path of your trip but worth checking out is Jenny Devoe from Indianapolis. She dared to record "Ode to Billy Joe' and not only pulled it off with flair but updated it. She needs to be famous too. I can't find the contact info for her but she has a website too.

Thanks all. Definitely bummed about missing Kentucky. Going to have to make a nother trek and include Florida too.

Gary - Milan sound interesting. having just come from New Orleans I'm particularly attuned to the blues. Just visited Prof. Longhair's old haunt Tipitinas. You can feel the history, even though NOLA has been so badly damaged.

When is the Beale St. festival?

Don't forget NE TN--Johnson City--just 30 minutes from Asheville, NC and 30 MInutes from Bristol VA..I'm trying to think of a cool place to go for music around here--there's such a wide variety will think on it a bit...

I love y'all's site. I would be doing myself a disservice if I didn't recommend that you give some of my music a listen(Itunes - David Weatherman).
With my pitch given, I'm sorry to inform you that Prince Mongo's Planet is no longer around. I think Mongo may be experiencing some hard times. There are still great places to hear music that you ought to check out. Try the Hi-Tone on Poplar Ave, the Young Ave Deli at the corner of Cooper and Young, and the P&H Cafe on Madison Ave. Best of luck and enjoy your trip.

stay abouve Ground Zero in C.Dale MS
Go to Reds if there is anything going on.
Memphis music is not necessarily downtown on Beale-Might want to consider a mid-town hotel.
The Mercy Lounge is a great Venue in Nashville

Be sure to eat at Huey's in midtown - they often have live music

are you serious? No one has mentioned going to the STAX museum of American soul music in Memphis? What a joke...Also, the place that rock n roll was invented would be nice as well. Beale street music fest is the first weekend in May BTW.

If you have time, you might want to check out the Bel Air club near the corner of Sycamore & Macon. Every Tuesday is Blues Jam Night and musicians from all over come and just jam from 8 - 12. You'll hear some excellent blues!

For Memphis 1) Center for Southern Folklore
http://www.southernfolklore.com/

2) hot spots for music in addition to the CSF are the Hi-tone Cafe and the Young Avenue Deli....

I live in Memphis and would definitely recommend both Hi-Tone and Young Ave. Deli. A lot of local music goes on at Memphis Originals otherwise known as MO's, at Hueys and at Blues City Cafe down on Beale. For local bands I'd seriously try to check out the Dempseys and Giant Bear, think folk, rockabilly, and a great time.

If you're gonna be in Johnson City, I would sincerely recommend trying to catch Rob Russell & the Sore Losers. They play mainly in that area and are absolutely phenomenal and deserve to be heard more. Sorry you won't be here for Music Fest, it's the 5,6 and 7 of May.

Hey if you feel like it. stop in Jackson on the 19th. I will show you around and set up some meets with local bands. Mr. Reeves missed a few that are signed acts, like Vulpine, 45 South, and One Less Reason. I am the Associate Editor for the Local Weekly here in Jackson. I get stuff from local bands all the time. You would be surprised at the diversity here in Jackson. E-mail and we can set something up.

In regards to Prince Mongo's planet he has sadly closed the club. There are plenty of hangouts in town. If you want to visit the birth place of rock and roll, you can find it at Sun Studio at the corner of Union and Marshall. There is great music and food all over town. If downtown visit the Butcher Shop for a great steak or The Bigfoot Lodge for the 4lb. Bigfoot burger. Have a great time.

You must visit the Stax Museum, http://www.soulsvilleusa.com/
and pick up a copy of the Memphis Flyer for music; http://www.memphisflyer.com/memphis/.
Check out live music at the Hi-Tone, the Young Avenue Deli, the Bucacaneer, Murphy's. For local music, talk to anyone at Shangri-La and/or Goner Records

Nashville: Hatch Show Print, Ryman Auditorium, Country Music Hall of Fame
Memphis: Stax Museum, Ardent Studios?, Graceland
Knoxville: Yee-Haw Industries, Market Square area, WDVX, The Pilot Light (live music / cheap beer)
Chattanooga: Lamar's (strong drinks & live bands), Pickle Barrel (bar food), Rock City for small gnomes & such
Lynchburg: Jack Daniels Distillery
Tri-Cities area: Carter Family Fold in Hiltons, VA (birthplace of country music)
Bristol: Bristol Mall houses Old-Time Museum

When in Memphis, eat bar b q at the Rendezvous. When in Nashville, go to the Bluebird Cafe for live music and Rotiers for a hamburger. If in Knoxville, go to the corner of Gay St and Summit Hill Dr (One Vision Plaza, I think), the WDVX (89.9 fm and on the internet) studios. There's a blueplate special live broadcast every day at noon. If in Johnson City, go to the Down Home for live music. Check websites for Bluebird Cafe, WDVX, and Down Home for upcoming shows. This state's got it all.

I work for an indie label distributor based out of Memphis. For some real Memphis music, go to places in Midtown like the Hi-Tone and the Young Avenue Deli. That's where the "top" bands in town normally play. Beale Street is fun, but touristy.

Unfortunately Musicfest this year has a weaker lineup than years past, just b/c I think they're trying to cater to a little more family friendly of an event (why, I'll never know)...anyway, you can see the lineup at www.memphisinmay.org.

Prince Mongo's has been closed for years, although I remember fun nights there in high school! For a late night club, Raiford's on Vance (a couple of blocks down from Beale St.) is a must....so is Wild Bill's at Avalon & Vollintine in Midtown (old soul-blues band plays there on weekends). 'You want a beer at either place? You get a 40....no other option.

As far as hotels, if you plan on hitting the clubs in Midtown, the French Quarter Inn at Madison & Cooper would be an ideal location for you.

For food, Huey's is a good idea for burgers (there's one downtown and one in midtown), as well as Gus's Fried Chicken (located downtown on Front Street), The Bar-B-Q Shop on Madison for a great pulled pork sandwich (on texas toast), the Rendezvous downtown (across from the Peabody on Union) for ribs, and Blues City Cafe (on Beale Street) for tamales!

Have fun...Memphis is a great town, with all kinds of hidden places!

Okay so much great Nashville music, so many different genres. All of these nashville musicians have music online and I am sure many of them would love to meet with you.
Michael Logen who just won song of the year from a British songwriting competition for his song mystery.
Andy Davis whose album "Thinks of Her" is a masterpiece with probably 4 radio singles.
Megan Thompson whose style is interesting and whose music is brilliant
Kate York who is getting lots of love in Paste and Harp magazine
Sam and Ruby, Sam Brooker's music collaboration which has done very well and is beautiful and haunting and in genome would be next to over the rhine and possibly iron and wine.
Mikeschair my favorite band I have discovered in Nashville who are close to doing big thing (they are all about to finish at Belmont which is kind of the Berklee of the South).

oh, and for some history, you can't miss out on the Stax Museum (there's also a music academy on their property for local kids), as well as the Rock & Soul Museum downtown (part of the Smithsonian museum system), as well as the Civil Rights Museum on South Main. In my opinion, those are the best museums in town, no question.

While in Nashville, check out Grimey's records store on 8th ave, an indie record store and community of music lovers...also named one of the top 10 record stores in the country by Rolling Stone Magazine.(http://www.grimeys.com)

Memphis?!? That entire City is THE Rock and Roll Hall of Fame!
Check out Lucero. Check out James Eddie Campbell. The Glass. Vending MAchine. Steve & Sid Selvidge. James Dickinson and his boys, the No. Mississippi All-Stars. . .Go by Shangra-la Records on MAdison. Eat at Huey's, Rendezvous and the BBQ Shop. . .MEmphis is the most influential music city in the WORLD. . .

Hi, Tim, you really should make time to go to Knoxville and meet the fine folks at WDVX. ( http://www.wdvx.com ) I am sure they will know what's happening in the area, not with just bluegrass, but with many other kinds of music, as well. Matt Morelock is one of the deejays and he also put together a display at UT's McClung museum on banjos, so is knowledgable in that area. You can read more about Matt at their website above.

Bristol is of some historical interest but I am not sure what is going on up that way right now. I am sure the good folks at WDVX will know, though.

All the best!

As a transplant from New England, now living in Memphis for 5 years, I think that I have this place sized up pretty well.

You can have fun on Beale if you are into the tourist thing and drinking. That is, unless the a%$hole sports fans are attending an event at the new FedEx Forum.

Just as much as blues, soul and rock, Memphis is about BBQ and beer. Everyone has their favorite, but for BBQ I would recommend Interstate or even Corkys. The Barbeque Shop on Madison, in my opinion, has the best pulled pork sandwiches and some fine sauces.

The Rock'n Soul museum is OK, but STAX is better. Of course, you must pay homage to the Rock n' Roll Mecca, Sun Studio.

Go to Wild Bill's. This is obligatory. Contact me if you want to meet up.

For new music and to meet a more eclectic crowd try Young Avenue Deli or HiTone. Check the listings.

If you have the time, go down to Clarksdale. The Crossroads, after all, is where it all started. Morgan Freeman is a local boy who done good and owns "Ground Zero". Plan to stay a night at the "Shack Up Inn".

you should come to 12th and Porter for a night of amazing music. Three local artists on their way to fame will be playing that night:
Sam & Ruby www.myspace.com/samandruby
Abner Ramirez www.myspace.com/abnermusic
and local favorite (and recent sxsw rave)
Andy Davis www.myspace.com/andydavis

It's Artist Revolution night at 12th and Porter: a group of artists who are all about promoting good music and musicians who love to play. All of the acts are outstanding. We would love to have you.

If you do anything while you are in Memphis, be sure to get this tour:

http://www.memphisrocktour.com/

Very knowledgeable about everything from Chris Bell to Martin Luther King, Jr.

They also put this out which has a great list of places to check out while you're here -
http://www.memphisrocktour.com/kreature_comforts.php

Hey there,

My name is Rachael and I just wanted to let you know of a geat restaurant many local musicians and national musicians love to eat at called Mambu in Nashville (Van Morrison was spotted there just a few weeks ago). It is located on Hayes St. which is just behind West End (a main street in town) between 18th and 19th. They serve world eclectic types food; including Japanese, Brazilian, and Italian influences. I am a local musician and a server at Mambu right now and would love to meet up with you to learn more about your project and how I can be involved. I will keep my eye out for information of how to be informed about your trip... Good luck!

You have to make it out to Beale Street in Memphis to catch Richard Johnston outside the New Daisy Theatre. This guy is absolutely amazing, the greatest street performer I have ever seen. He is a one man band playing drums and a homemade instrument called a lowebow. He plays the foothill blues made famous by RL Burnside and Junior Kimbrough. He has played everywhere from Telluride, CO to France. He is definitely worth a trip to see! You can catch him most weekends on Beale Street. www.richardjohnston.com

Can't help you with music, but check out my blog for food recs in Nashville. Margot Cafe in East Nashville is tops for dinner in the city. Sweet 16th Bakery, also in East Nash, is a must-stop for pastries & cakes. Ask for the "Velvet Elvis."

You have to make it out to Beale Street in Memphis to catch Richard Johnston outside the New Daisy Theatre. This guy is absolutely amazing, the greatest street performer I have ever seen. He is a one man band, playing the foothill blues made famous by RL Burnside and Junior Kimbrough. He has played everywhere from Telluride, CO to France. He is definitely worth a trip to see! You can catch him most weekends on Beale Street. www.richardjohnston.com

If you are around Franklin, TN which is about 20 miles south of Nashville on a Saturday night check out Pucketts in down town Franklin. They have live music and dinner for around $30 a person. The performers are local and most are really good. You can get the details at http://www.puckettsgrocery.com/. They also have a Friday dinner and show in Leapers fork but that is much harder to find. PS: If you plan on going you should make reservations.

You have to make it out to Beale Street in Memphis to catch Richard Johnston outside the New Daisy Theatre. This guy is absolutely amazing, the greatest street performer I have ever seen. He is a one man band, playing the foothill blues made famous by RL Burnside and Junior Kimbrough. He has played everywhere from Telluride, CO to France. He is definitely worth a trip to see! You can catch him most weekends on Beale Street. www.richardjohnston.com

Memphis! Come on - you'll love it!

To stay: Talbot Heirs Guesthouse (cool, local feel)

To eat: You must hit The BBQ Shop on Madison in Midtown Memphis - try the ribs and chicken drummies and say hello to Eric Vernon who has taken over running the place from his parents.

Music - Memphis In May Musicfest is a great place to catch a lot; Other bars who regularly feature good local bands: The Hi-Tone, Murphy's, The Buccaneer, Young Ave. Deli

The Rind Stars are a great band as are Dotters of Eyes, Organ Thief, Candace Ivory, Breaking the Cage

Go dance at Raiford's of Hollywood after midnight or have a late nite soul burger at Ernestine and Hazels (old brothel) and also stop by Wild Bill's.

Enjoy! We're not called the birthplace of Rock and Roll for nothing!

you should definitely come to knoxville, we're not huge, but we've got a nice local music scene that needs to get the credit it deserves

If you stop in Chattanooga. Check out Rhythm 'n Brews. The Rounders a great local band. There are several other clubs. But, TnB is the top. The Bay is another one. But, the Rounders would definitely be a hit on Pandora.

I'm from Chattanooga myself. The music scene here is buzzing, too. We have lots of live, local music preforming nearly every day. And if you hit downtown (Which is where the action is), check out Chattanooga High School Center For Creative Arts on the north shore. The kids there are really talented; they're almost all in bands.

Names to watch:
Amythyst Phillips
Possible Playground
50:50 Shot (not strictly local)

Good luck on your travels through Tennessee! As far as dining in Nashville goes, I just found out about a neat website that focuses on Nashville's local restaurants--perfect for someone traveling through town who wants to enjoy local cuisine instead of eating at some chain. (I'll just assume that you're probably tired of McDonald's.) It's www.nashvilleoriginals.com. You should definitely check it out. I think they have the same kind of thing in other cities. If so, I'm sure there are probably links to other cities you might be driving through.
Love Pandora, man. Y'all keep up the good work now, y'hear?

In Memphis, Stay at the Peabody Hotel. It's in walking distance of Beal and is in the midst of all the uptown action. I've heard the guest house mentioned above is great too, but do visit the Peabody. If you like Thai food, Sawaddii is excelent and it is close to Beal and the Peabody. Barbeque is the food Memphis prides itself in being the best at. The ribs at Blues City on Beal are to die for. The Rock 103 website Is the number one radio website in the nation.

If you are in the mood for some old-time/bluegrass/honky tonk in Nashville, hit The Station Inn. The Biscuit Burners are playing on Friday night and The Wilders are playing on Saturday. The Station Inn is such a Nashville landmark, a must see. Shows end around 12pm which gives you enough time to go to Roberts on Broadway. If you can deal with all the tourist, the music and atmosphere is great.

Good places to eat: Rumba and Germantown Cafe

Viva Nashville!

Listen: Mercy Lounge, Exit/In, City Hall

Play: East Nashville-3 Crow Bar, Beyond the Edge, Red Door East

Eat: Germantown Cafe, Rose Pepper

Shop: Grimey's Record Store

While in Nashville be sure to visit the Station Inn (www.stationinn.com), home of bluegrass music. (Pandora.com's bluegrass selections could really use beefing up, by the way) You really need to spend a month in Nashville, there's so much good music of different genres, and so many great songwriters, so much talent. If you are in Nashville on April 14, come see us, The Roland White Band, at the Station Inn, or if in Chattanooga April 22 come see us at The Barking Legs.

In Nashville, spend some time at Grimey's Record Store on 8th Avenue South. Downstairs is the Basement, where many unsigned or barely-signed bands play on their way through town. The guys and ladies at Grimeys are the very best source of information about what's new and upcoming in music, both local and regional. Doyle Davis is the manager.

Nashville Scene is a good source of info for upcoming music shows: www.nashvillescene.com.

Checkout Stacy Mitchhart at the Bourbon Street Blues and Boogy Bar. It's my favorite locale. http://www.bourbonstreetblues.com/

If you can... drive the Natchez Trace. It runs from Natchez to Nashville (where I am). Great road trip. (watch out for the turkeys).

Pick up a Nashville Rage or Scene from about anywhere to see what's going on in town (or check them out online)

Grimey's and Spun (in Belmont) Records are great shops with great owners. Grimey's (8th Ave) is also in the building with the Basement, which is a great non-smoking venue with very eclectic tastes.
Robert's Western World on the weekends is great with Brazil Billy. (Broadway) Toosie's is there too.
Country Music Hall of Fame is great.. and has a Ray Charles Exhibit right now. And, of course, the Ryman

East Nashville has: Margot (as mentioned before.. excellent food.. $$$) Alley Cat, usually with a dj of some sort, and great food, Bongo East (coffee), the 5 Spot (venue). Lots more.

West End/ Elliston Place/across the bridge- Rotier's - hole in the wall hamburgers and shakes, The End and Exit In (landmark venues), Samaurai Sushi, for the best, smallest sushi bar ever (beer only). Cafe Coco - 24/7, then gay nashville- Tribe, Play, Blue, Red, etc.

If you go out Charlotte def hit the Farmer's Market, Bobby's Dairy Dip (outdoor old school icecream) New Life Records and about 15 thrift stores.

12ave- the gultch to 12south - Lots of trendiness going on, but the Station Inn (bluegrass) is classic. Lots of restaurants, close to the CanneryBallroom and the Mercy Lounge.

man, I could go on and on.. that is totally leaving out Franklin, Murfreesboro, Apollo Up!, Mindub and Spoon, and a million other great things about this area... yeah, even Cookeville.

and of course, there's nothin' bad about spending April 20 in Nashville. ever.

also, check out 91.1 WRVU-Nashville. It's the student-operated voice of Vanderbilt University... and it pretty much rocks. So varied in the music it plays.. if you don't like what's on now, come back in an hour.

It's online as well - wrvu.org.

Wednesday Night - 3rd and Lindsley - Wooten Brothers (about 10:30pm) not a signed band but always a lot of fun and you never know who will show up to contribute (I have seen Victor Wooten and Futureman from the Flecktones, Clyde McNight from Take 6, as well as local musicians).

No Prince Mongo's isn't around....he kept getting busted for selling licquor to minors.
I'd advise you to check out Sun Studios over on Union Avenue.
As everyone knows that is where a young Elvis Presley and many other rock-n-roll & country music performers got their starts.
THEN I'd advise the customary trip to Graceland.
As I always tell visitors to Memphis, first see where Elvis started, the go see where he ended up.
I think it adds to the touring experience....
Glenn Condrey
Memphis

For your nashville trip, be sure and go to "Grimey's new and preloved music" and be sure to go to a show at "The Basement" which is below Grimey's to see some local acts. if you really want the lowdown on what to see and when while in town, just have a chat with the staff at Grimey's. they will have plenty of ideas to peak your interests.
Grimey's
1604 8th Ave. South
Nashville, TN 37203
PH: 615-254-4801
Open 7 Days A Week
Mon thru Sat 11am-8pm
Sundays 1pm-6pm

have fun

If you have a chance to swing down to Chattanooga, Tn (which is about a 2 hour drive from Nashville) that music scene has some great talent. Rhythm and Brews is a great place to go. It is located on Broad St. downtown Chattanooga. They almost always have a live show, with bands such as Actress, Leticia Wolf, Frankly Scarlett and many others.

Hey I live in Nashville and its one the best places to get all kinds of music.

To Stay:
Opryland Hotel, I go there every year for convention and I just love it.

To eat:
Downtown
Demos'
and
Rotiers
out aways
The Beacon Light
and don't bother trying to go to the Loveless' Cafe its packed all the time, a tourist trap, and the food isn't outstanding.
Ask anybody local or go to map quest to find the restaurants, a hotel manager should be able to get you directions.

To see the music.
Downtown
Hard Rock Cafe, Nashville
B.B. Kings
The Wildhorse Saloon
Green Hills area
The Bluebird(absolute must)

Hope you have a great time and remember you can get any type of music in Nashville, you don't have to just stick with country.

Caitlin

all i gotta say is make sure to hit up Grimey's Record Store. And you can use it as a launching-block for the music scene of the rest of the city. They embrace most forms of music, and they really know what's going on.
peace,
hope you have a swell time,
-kevin

http://www.dishwaterblonde.net/main.html.

I'll have to say check out Dishwater Blonde. They are a great talent in the Knoxville area. They play Atlanta and Chattanooga quite a bit. Also appearing at the Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival last year.

Teravus

If you can manage to still be in Nashville on Saturday, April 22nd, you would be well advised to go to the Protomen show at The End (18+). They are a local Nashboro (nashville/murfreesboro) group that performs synth-driven rock in the format of a robotic nintendo opera. They only perform a few times a year, so make sure to get there early (8 or 9-ish) because the shows are always standing room only. And I'm sure The dynamic duo of openning bands (Makeup and Vanity Set & How I Became the Bomb) will have a pretty big draw as well.

You can read about The Protomen in this month's Nintendo Power Magazine (back page), Mix Magazine (http://mixonline.com/mag/audio_nashville_skyline_86/index.html) or the band's own website (www.protomen.com). Or you could just google "the protomen" and see what turns up.

Also, The Rage is the Nashville area's seminal culture & entertainment rag. Pick one up when you get here, or go to their website (www.nashvillerage.com) to find out what will be going on. In their current issue, there's a feature article about the Nashville/Murfreesboro music scene (look for the link on the front page of their website). It's definitely worth a read for anyone wanting to know more about the Nashville area local music scene, especially if you are bored stinkless in a hotel room somewhere with nothing but 12 different channels of ESPN to entertain you.

Keep up the great work! I know I have heard The Features and De Novo Dahl on Pandora in the past, so thanks for supporting Nashville's local music!

<3 Kelly

Ps: There may also be a surprise mini-performance by the Protomen the night you said you will definitely be in town (the 20th). Send me an email if you would like to know when and where.

Welcome to Memphis. You are going to have a ball. Like posted before, the Beale Street Music Festival is in early May and deserves another mention. Some great music from many genres to be heard. Eating in Memphis??? Come on in and sit a spell. Blues City on Beale has good eats, good prices, and you have a front window to one of the busiest corners on Beale. The Rendezvous has atmosphere you can cut with a knife and the ribs are great (I prefer the dry but they offer both). Gus's for fried chicken. The Flying Saucer is good for beer selection and the scenery is great ;). Memphis is the place where Stax and Sun made tidal waves throughout American music. Come on in and taste a slice. We breathe, sweat, bleed, drip, live....SOUL.

Forget the Rendevous or Corky's-they aren't that good. Grab some of the best fried chicken at Gus' downtown. Best BBQ is the Bar-B-Cue Shop on Madison in Midtown. Cafe 61 down town is awesome. Rio Loco downtown has great Mexican. Catch a Redbirds game at AutoZone Park or a Grizzlies playoff game at Fed Ex Forum. Try and get here for Beale Street Music Fest-lot of focus on Memphis Music this year, old and new. Great local bands at Hi-Tone and Young Avenue Deli. If you want a taste of soul and R&B classics, go to Cockeyed Camel out east. Memphis is a very cool town.

Oh yeah! Here's a _very brief_ "greatest hits" list of things to see and do while in Nashville. I have lived here for every single one of the 24 years of my life. That and my job have allowed me to be involved with almost everything that goes on in this town.
So here's a very verbose (I'm also an English major) short list from a Nashville native.

Record Stores + Shopping
-------------------------
[Grimey's:] Locally-owned record store which specializes in new & used CD's and Vinyl from every genre, but with a focus on independent music. A great place to pick the staff's brains about local music, and music in general. "The Basement" performance venue is located in the bottom of the building.
(Located @ 8th Ave South near Wedgewood)

[The Great Escape:] locally-owned record/thrift/comic store. Their music-related stock includes both gently and not-so-gently used CD's, Vinyl, posters, pins, and memorabilia. Also a good place to pick the staff's minds, but they're usually busier than Grimey's.
(Located @ 21st Ave South where it splits into West End)

[Hilsboro Village] quite a few independet stores, boutiques, and restaurants on a cute, walkable (if perpetually traffic-clogged) strip near downtown.
(Located @ 21st ave south right before the street name turns into Hillsboro Rd)

Hotels & Accomodations
-------------------------

Usually (if you are a sociable person who doesn't look like a psycho killer, and people have some sort of an idea of who you are) you can go to any show/party in town, make some new friends, and find a couch to crash on for the night for free-- we are famous for our hospitality, you know.
But, if you feel more comfortable staying in a hotel, I would reccomend staying in one of the national chains located in one of Nashville's many suburbs. As a suggestion, Hotels in and around the Vanderbilt University area are located in a neat, active, eclectic part of town with alot to see and do within walking distance. They are also about 5 minutes from downtown and should be fairly cheap compared to other hotels located closer to the downtown area. DO NOT STAY AT ANY DAYS INN LOCATED IN NASHVILLE. For some reason they are all disgusting here. And try to stay West of the River. East Nashville has a lot of neat bars and restuarants as well, but it's an area that is experiencing a bit of a renaissance-- meaning that it can still be a pretty sketchy place in certain areas. Staying West of the Cumberland river will also keep you closer to most of the things you are likely to want to see and do.

Also, DO NOT STAY AT THE OPRYLAND HOTEL. I cannot stress this enough. Contrary to popular belief, the Opryland Hotel is NOT located in Nashville. It is located in an area roughly 30 minutes southeast of Nashville. The rooms are severely overpriced for what you get and traffic on Briley Parkway (the perpetually-under construction road which you MUST take to get to Nashville) is almost always horrendous. The hotel is worth seeing for its massive and beautiful indoor gardens, the Cascades, as well as the equally massive shopping mall next door, Opry Mills; but save yourself the price of a $200 a night hotel room, and make a day trip to the hotel instead. $5 for parking gets you unlimited access to the gardens and restaurants, and if you're not afraid of a little bit of a walk, you can even save the $5 by parking at the mall for free and walking over to the hotel.

Bars
-------------
[Red Door Saloon:] Laid back local establishement that's just north of being a dive. Has a great front deck that's perfect for enjoying the weather this time of year. Prices are okay.
(located at 21st ave just before the Music Valley Circle)

[The Bars at Demonbreun:] The 10-12 bars and restaurants located on this tiny street a block south of music row make it a nightly hotspot. Dan Mcguinnes pub, On the Rocks, Tin Roof, and a host of other bars and restaurants whose names I can't remember all feature great food, decently-priced drinks and no cover.
(Located on Demombreun st. Take the I-65 Northbound ext for Demonbreun Street and turn left off the exit, or you can just drive down 21st, {be sure to take the right-hand split so you don't accidentally end up on west end} go around the Music Row circle {a giant statue of nekkid dancers will let you know you're on the right track} and Demonbreun will be on the opposite side of the circle.)

[The Flying Saucer:]
Their claim to fame is that they have literally hundreds of beers on tap. Order one of their "flights" to get a series of six 4oz "tasters" of beers from around the world. Perfect if, like me, you've ever wanted to do a beer taste-test to find out which kind you like the best. The menu also features some pretty good food, including the cheaply-priced (but delicious) soft-baked pretzels that come with a choice of dipping sauce. Although it's not exactly locally-owned, it's one of only eleven flying saucer's in the world (the rest are scattered throughout Tennessee and Texas) so it's still not exactly a chain. The atmosphere is a casual go-have-a-beer-after-work type of feel; a little bit more upscale than Red Door. Get there before 10 on a weeknight to avoid the cover.
(Located on Broadway near downtown in the back of the Union Station building {look for the big british-looking clocktower next door to the Frist Fine Arts Center}. Don't park on any of the metal grates or your car might get towed)

I was going to do restaurants, but I'm tired of typing and I'm sure you're tired of reading. :P

While on your way to Nashvile from Memphis stop in jackson Tn and visit the Rockabilly Hall of Fame. It is a small museum in downtown Jackson.
Jackson was the home of music legend Carl Perkins.

You're going to be in Nashville on a Thursday? This means you must must MUST go to Dan McGuinness Pub on Demonbreun around 10pm central time! Not only does McGuinness have a killer fish & chips special for only 5 bucks on Thursdays, but that is also the night that Dirt Pharm plays...and, there is no cover charge! This is a collective of artists, musicians, and up-and-coming songwriters that will make your ears tingle with delight. The "regulars" at this weekly show include Shanna Crooks, Weston Hays, Trevor Rosen, and quite a few others who will surely rock your socks. If you want a quick sampling of what you have to look forward to, check out www.myspace.com/dirtpharm. You won't be disappointed!
Have fun & travel safe!
:)

nashville on the 21st at 12th and porter...nashville unplugged! 7 local rock artists who don't generally "unplug" will be doing just that. the creeping cruds will not be nashville's loudest band but will still be the scariest! nashville's best punk band, cretin grims, will be at the springwater the same night.

stay away from the tourist traps (except for tootsie's orchid lounge and robert's downtown) check out the end...mercy lounge...springwater...exit in...

Be sure to pick up a copy of the local papers, "Nashville Scene" and "The Rage" for all music happenings and venues. Also, check out Grimey's New and Pre-loved Music Store. It sits above a very cool music venue, "The Basement."

Also, if you get here on the 19th, be sure to check out Justin Earle and the Distributors who will be playing at Mercy Lounge, also a great live music venue.

you can stay in my home while in nashville.

Memphis is soooo much more than the whole 50's rock and the blues thing, I mean it did produce Big Star and the whole garage "thing" in the 60's. For the more indie side of the city the must visits are definitely the Hi Tone, Young Avenue Deli, depending on who's playing that night. You should definitely consider skipping Beale Street, unless you're going down to see the blues and soul museum at the Gibson Factory, which you should do as well.

For some good eats, it's gotta be some BBQ. Interstate on Third is a good choice, but one of my personal favorites is The BBQ Shop on Madison.

I would suggest checking out these sites for a rundown of what will be going on while you are in Memphis. There are all kinds of small joints to hear some great music in Memphis. A lot of music came out of Memphis in the past and I believe there is much more to come. I hope you enjoy your stay here.

http://www.livefrommemphis.com/index_html
http://www.memphismojo.com/
http://www.memphisflyer.com/memphis/

You definitely must stay at the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center! Sign up for tours around Nashville. Ride the General Jackson riverboat and kickback at the Wildhorse Saloon. We even have a live radio show inside the hotel.
I work in the Rooms Division here so "I know my stuff!"

My all time favorite local, Nashville, artist is Jason white. he usually plays at the Mercy Lounge, however, if he's not in town the week you are in Nash. pick up a copy of his cd Shades of Grey; it's one of the best cds i ahve ever heard in my life. Um for more local stuff you might want to see who is playing at the Belcourt Theatre. ...also Ben Folds lives in Nash and he can be found in some plays on music row every once in a while. By the way I am really not into country so I wouldn't know how to help you there.Hope that helps...feel free to contact me with any questions.
Ashteen18@gmail.com

Welcome to Memphis and Tennessee. Don't miss Payne's Bar-B-Q in Memphis for the best Barbecue in the world.

Don't forget The recent bands that are making it big from Knoxville. Ten Years, Shinedown, Copper.

It would be a crying shame if you didn't make it to Robert's Bar and Western Wear. Or Toostie's.

Both of these are in Nashville and these are both local country music standbys. It doesn't get much better than those two places. F Scotts is great for jazz but that's the place you go to forget you're in Nashville, not to get the local flavor. There are AMAZING bands here (there is a joke that you can't swing a dead cat in a restaurant and not hit a quartet) you don't have to look all that far.

Don't forget to hit East Nashville while you're here either, and try to see who's playing at the Radio Cafe if you can.

/t

You must eat at the Rendezvous in Memphis near Beale St. Best dry or wet ribs you'll ever eat.

hey i hear you are going to be in memphis soon. as far as a local music seen there is always newbys on highland as well as liquid lounge on highland as well. the blue monkey has good local bands. beale street is bumping on the weekend but i dont really know about on a tuesday. places to stay... just dont stay at the peabody. it is way to damn expensive! you pay for the name and history thats it. there is a nice hilton in east memphis ans nice hotels downtown as well as cordova. if you need somewhere to eat then you should definently come eat at the melting pot in cordova. you should request me as your server. i would love to meet someone involved in pandora. its one if not the best music site on the web. i have found SO many new artist thanks to you guys. it is my home page you know. well take care and i hope to see you at melting pot. good luck with your searching. oh one other thing. freesol is the best local band around so if you have a chance check them out. they are on my space just like the rest of the world. peace

Holy... *&^%# Thanks for all these great suggestions everyone. Maybe I should rent an apartment and stay two weeks! Really looking forward to this visit. It's quite clear from this response that we're in music country :)

Hard part is going to be choosing between all of these great bands, clubs, restaurants, and even places to stay.

Thanks for such a great welcome. I hope to meet many of you when I have the meetup - stay tuned, we mayb rejigger the visit by one day.

Cheers. . Tim

If you're coming to Nashville, your best bet is to contact the folks at WRLT, Lightning 100.1 radio. They're the only indy owned and produced station here. They specialize in promoting local artists and they can tell you all the best places to go during your stay here.

You should stop in the johnson city area, and listen to some bluegrass and other interesting music. There is going to be a blugrass festival called Fiddlers and Fiddleheads, on April 20 from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM. It's gonna be at Farmhouse Gallery in Unicoi. Go to farmhousegallery.net. Also check out the Acoustic Coffehouse on Walnut St. in Johnson City. They always great music there. You can look at some of their stuff at acoustic-coffehouse.com.

Looks like there are already good suggestions abotu music in Nashville, so I'll comment on the food. I just moved to the area so I've spent the last few months in search of good food. I would reccommend "rose pepper cantina" for mexican, "golden thai" for thai food, and "calypso cafe" for caribbean food.

Enjoy nashville

While in Memphis pls try to check out:

1) The Dempseys (rockabilly), usually playing at Blues City Cafe on Beale

2)Free Sol (funk/hip-hop)

3)Kirk Smithheart (AMAZING blues!)

4)Rum Boogie Cafe on Beale St - always hot blues music, 7 days a week

Enjoy The Bluff City - it's a great place!

Hello, Tim: Thank you. Thank you very much for Pandora. It's super.

I second the notion that a must for Memphis is the Blues City Cafe. Try the tamales along with whatever strikes your fancy.

In Nashville, ask around for where you can find Anthony Gomes. Dynamite blues and a hell of a show. The Bluebird is also an institution. It's a songwriters venue, so you get to see and hear it from the beginning.

Good luck and thanks for thinking of us.

tndoug
Chattanooga

Tim,

In Memphis, a must see band is The Gamble Brothers Band http://www.gamblebrothersband.com/ Check out their site for dates. I will be at the Knoxville show on the 15th. Have fun and enjoy Tennessee.

Billy

While in Nashville, get to the Wildhorse Saloon. It's tons of Nashville culture packed into a little bar.

Visit the Parthenon and the park around it --- there's a huge tree in the park with hammocks up in the branches.

I forgot something.

You ABSOLUTELY have to visit Grimey's Records on 8th Avenue South. The best record store in Tennessee, hands down. There's a venue underground called the Basement, and a vintage clothing store above called Local Honey. The Grimey's staff are the most helpful people in the world, and they're like family to any regulars. VISIT IT!

hey, you should definately come visit MTSU or Middle Tennessee State University in Murfreesboro (south of nashville, and the geographic center of the state). That's where I go to school and there are a million and one (so it seems) Recording Industry Majors here since it's one of the biggest RIM schools anywhere. We also actually discussed your project in my english class recently, so this is cool.
You should go to the Country Music Hall of Fame in Music City (nashville) and also eat at Jack's BBQ downtown on the strip, you can't miss it.
Also, you HAVE to see the Ryman Auditorium before you leave, weather it's just a tour or seeing a show there. It's amazing and we hold it pretty high in the South.
Wish you the best on your trip, and make sure to have fun!
DJ Laine
88.3 WMTS, Murfreesboro
www.wmts.org

For music: Ryman, Mercy Lounge, City Hall, skip the downtown bars, its the same boring country music

Food: Judge Beans BBQ

APPALACHIA especially BRISTOL and JOHNSON CITY. Look at Birthplace of Country Music Alliance and the CARTER FOLD. If you're collecting music for Pandora, both have many old local roots music CDs/LPs from the founders of some of America's great musical genre's (country, bluegrass, old-time, gospel). Carter Fold was built by AP Carter's Family. Jennette just died a bit ago You could hear her talk about music and play autoharp until nearly her end. Johnny Cash made some of his last appearances there. Much local music and traveling bluegrass/folk/old time. Satudray night, $4:00. Buy a hot dog and a coke. A lively Clogging floor. Smaller version in Marshall NC, about an hour across the border on Fridays. Usually have a cake walk.

In Johnson City, check out the DOWN HOME: Ed Snoderly, prop., was the crazy fiddle player on "Oh Brother". Great turing bands like Del McCoury, Doc Watson, Tim Obrian, Peter Ostrouschko, Web Wilder, ... come there.

Also, hit the ACOUSTIC COFFEEHOUSE in JC. You'll find some of the best pickers and fiddlers in the country just cooking up their home brew, usually after 10:00, sometimes till 3:00 am. Lots of talent from the area and imports to the EAST TN ST BLUEGRASS program. Pick up CDs from local acts like the EVERYBODYFIELDS (Sam won an award at Merlfest for songwriting) and REEL TIME TRAVELERS (Martha won the Merlfest best new song award a few years back). Sweet music with local soul.

Also, ETSU's APPALACHIAN ARCHIVES.

Check out the Station Inn for excellent bluegrass and cold beer in a smoke-free environment.

La Hacienda on 2617 nolensville pike has delicious, authenic, cheap Mexican food, cold beer, HUGE margaritas and they love kids.

East Nashville's Family Wash boasts an excellent beer selection, great live music (saw Vicktor Krauss there) and the BEST vegetarian shepherd's pie EVER!

While in Nashville, you might want to stop by Belmont University. Not only is it hosting the CMAs this year, but it also is home to one of the fastest growing music business programs in the nation. Also, check out Music Row and the recording houses on it, as you might be able to sneak a peek at some new talent.

Nashville:
Most of the basics are covered by the other people that posted. Yes, Grimey's IS the best record store in TN. The Basement (below Grimey's)is a must for great local music. If you happen to get to town by the 18th, stop by The Basement to check out the weekly installment of New Faces Night. Always lots of great music to check out there. But, if you don't make it to Nashville until the 20th. then check out Carey Ott playing at 12th & Porter that night: www.myspace.com/careyott.
One local must visit that I don't think anyone mentioned is Yazoo Brewing Company, located on 12th & Clinton. The tap room is open Thurs, Fri, Sat. so you'll be there at the right time. Great small brewery offerings that's fast becomimng a Nashville institution!
RPM

I don't know if anyone else has suggested this yet or not, but if you come through Memphis, there are a few "landmark" eateries that you must try. Not all of these are necessarily my favorite, but they're definitely some of the most popular:

The Rendezvous (awesome dry BBQ ribs)
Yum's (friend chiken)
Corky's BBQ (on Poplar Ave - the original)
Top's BBQ (on Sycamore View Rd - yes, we love our BBQ)
Isaac Hayes Restaraunt

Some others that I personally enjoy are below:

Texas de Brazil (Huge flat fee, all the meat and trappings you can eat)
Wang's Chinese Bistro (very nice Chinese place)
Patrick's (an all-American-style place)
Huey's (on Madison Ave - awesome burgers)

I'm sure there are people who can append to this list. I've no idea how long you plan on staying here in the city, but you gotta' at least hit a couple of those before you get where you're going. :) Hope you enjoy!

You must eat lunch at a "Meat and 3"...shoot me an email, and I'll get ya the goods. Below are some local radio stations... good place to look for "non-cuntry" gigs...

www.1029thebuzz.com/html/local_buzz.html
http://www.wrvu.org/
www.wrlt.com

www.exitin.com - in case no one metioned it...

later,
Burns.....

For what its worth...a band called Lucero is a Memphis favorite...their website is www.luceromusic.com

When you stop in Clarksdale MS, be sure and eat at Madidi, Morgan Freeman's rest. Its kinda pricey, but the food is great, and if he's there, Morgan and his partner are great hosts.

After you make it to Nashville you should try and see 3 local bands, that IMO stand head and shoulders above most of the rest. The Katies, The Features and Fluid Ounces, all out of Murfreesboro, are great. Check em out.

In Memphis, swing by Shangri-La records on Madison and check their local music section. There tons of stuff by Memphis legends, past and present. And, for a slice of what's brewing in the city's beer halls and basement studios, pick up a copy of Makeshift 4, a massive collection of tracks from 40-plus local acts, compiled by Memphis label/musical collective Makeshift Records. It's brilliant and important. And forget those chumps and their Bar-B-Que sandwiches; when at the Bar-B-Que Shop, get the drummies and a slab of ribs, half wet, half dry.

Matt

Hi Tim - If this is indeed your first time visiting Memphis, please come see us at the Stax Museum of American Soul Music at the original site of Stax Records. It's a 17,000 square-foot, state-of-the-art shrine to everything Stax and everything Soul! As for music and clubs, if you are here on a Friday or Saturday night, if you don't do anything else be sure to visit Wild Bill's (tiny, awesome bar) and hear The Memphis Soul Survivors with Miss Nikki. She's the best kept secret in the city. Have fun during your stay and some see us at the Stax Museum!
Tim

u might want to come to southpittsburg tn cuz we have a metal core scene that is awsome we have motels and places to hang out ull love later

Hey guys, I've lived around Midtown Memphis for five years, and I can tell you where most of the "hip" places to eat/listen to music are in memphis:

1. wild bill's -- for AUTHENTIC dancing, blues, honkey tonk.
2. huey's midtown -- for the best burgers i've ever had and local music
3. the young avenue deli -- probably the hippest indie music venue in memphis
4. the hi-tone cafe -- another great indie venue
5. the blue monkey -- tuesday nights are fun at the monkey; a hip, young, and good-looking crowd populates the bar on most nights.
6. central barbeque -- for the best barbeque in memphis, hands down.

For Nashville, I would recommend leaving your days here completely unscheduled and just make your first stop Grimey's on 8th Avenue. They will be able to help you with whatever kind of music you want to see, who's playing where, what venues are worth checking out, etc. Also check out the Critic's Picks in the Nashville Scene (www.nashvillescene.com) a weekly which publishes every Wednesday.

There's a huge indie scene around Chattanooga. I'm not into much that goes around here but there's a lot of music fans down here nonetheless. A ridiculous local club called Fathom in downtown Chattanooga is a pretty firm example of the music tastes around my city at least.

Hopefully you aren't much of an emo hater, because that's the hipster type that thrives around here.

Hey hey I'm going to highlight a bunch of Nashville things that are a must:

Websites:
http://nashville.metblogs.com/
http://movementnashville.com/
http://www.nashvillescene.com/
http://www.nashvillerage.com
http://www.theory8records.com/
http://eastnashville.org/
www.nashvilleoriginals.com
http://www.grimeys.com

Music Fests:
(this is that weekend...I'll be there) http://www.vanderbilt.edu/ros/
http://www.bonnaroo.com/2006/

Venues:
http://www.bluebirdcafe.com/
http://www.3rdandlindsley.com/
http://www.mercylounge.com/
http://www.myspace.com/theendnashville
http://www.exitin.com/
http://www.myspace.com/12thandporter

Other:
http://www.countrymusichalloffame.com/site/experience-hatch.aspx
http://www.bongojava.com/

Yeah I love to hang at Bongo Java and get music at Grimey's. I love to eat at Calypso and visit Cenntinial Park.

Read the Metro Blogging site to see what's happening from people who live there.

Hey, if you are gonna be in Nashville on the 20th, there is a battle of the bands at Vanderbilt University from 7-11pm, there will be some very good acts. My band will be playing in it, and later that night we are playing at Bar Car on 10th avenue from 12-2am. Feel free to drop me an email if you want more info about it.

-Billy

You're leaving Nashville a day too early! The Rites of Spring concert festival @ Vandy is the 21st and 22nd!

Hey Tim...
I'm sure you'll enjoy Memphis. You've collected lot's of great suggestions.
Here are mine :
*Wild Bills
*Guss' World Famous Fried Chicken
*Stax
*Sun
*Civil Rights
*Bhan Thai
*Blues City (The Masqueraders play there early evening and the ribs & catfish are unbeatable.)
*Shack Up Inn (Clarksdale.. Billy is da'man)
*Delta Blues Mueseum (Shelly is the director... she is cool)
* www.dreamsafari.com Tad knows everything... esp. all of the hip and happening jooks.
*Al Greens Tabernacle Church
*Graceland
*Tacqueria Guadalapanya
*Encore (GREAT new Restaurant in Peabody Place)
*Hampton Inn Suites on Union @ 240 is a reasonable resting spot $5.00 cab to and fro downtown & midtown 1/2 price of downtown. And there is always the Red Roof Inn on Pauline St. same area mucho reasonable.... If budget is no object.... The Peabody.

It was very interesting to read the Memphis entries.... I am a performer on Beale Street... 10yrs/5 nights a week....and a bit disheartened by the collective negative vibe rap. If you decide to spend some of your precious time on Beale Street I offer to be your most gracious guide.
www.barbarablue.com
Happy Trails,
BB

Hey, I just thought I would let you know about Egypt Central, a band from Memphis that I love. I am a couple hours away from Memphis and I have only seen them once, but I love their music. I believe they will be playing during the Beale St. Festival for Memphis in May. Just a little heads up...

If you get a chance, I reccomend that you stop by Knoxville, and try and listen to Cutthroat Shamrock. Very nice local band with some Irish folk influences.

hello..i am heather cowles, singer/songwriter.....i recieved an email from this sight sayin they are looking for new artist..i thought i would put my website on here if anyone wants to check it out..i live in the nashville area..a good place to go that i know of in Nashville to hear or be a part of songwriters rounds is the commodore and the bluebird... www.heathercowles.com

I'll cast another vote for Knoxville. Local artist Robinella (and the CCStringband) should not be missed. They play every Sunday night at 8pm at Barley's in the old city. Along with the other Knoxvillians around here, I'd say WDVX is the place to go for "real" Knoxville music.

Welcome to Tennessee!

Blue Bird Cafe, just west of Vandy in Nashville. Don't eat there, but do bring your ears for songwriter showcase. Breakfast at Noshville, on the other side of Vandy.

Red Boiling Springs, TN June 23,24,25

30 years of local families gathering to celebrate the solstice and play music. Pickin and jamming featuring all the classics.

Don't spend all your time in Nashville. Travel about 30 minutes south to a little town called Murfreesboro, home of Middle Tennessee State Univ., They have an awesome recording industry management program and therefore you can not spit and not hit a guitarist. These musicians startup some pretty groovy bands and one of the best music spots is a little bar called The Boro right across the street from campus. Check it out.

This website has kept me sane at work! I work third shift in a hospital so it can get pretty boring at times. The only thing that would make this site better is if I could get it in my car!!! If you ever are in Chattanooga, check out the bands playing at Rythem and Brews. They always have great local bands. The best one to watch out for is "Here come the Mummies." (this one isn't local but they are a huge hit here and come quite frequently.) They play funky beats and they are all dressed as mummies. A lot of times famous people (that you would totally recognize) sit in with them and you never know it because they are wrapped head to toe. They are really popular in some pretty famous circles. I think the majority of them are from New Orleans. Check out our local alternative newspaper The Pulse. It has a list of all the music for the week and its free. New editions come out on Thursdays. Thanks again for all the great music!!! I am definately spreading the word about you to everybody!!!

There's a lot of country in Nashville, but there's a lot more to offer. Try going to Exit/In, 3rd & Lindsley, or Christophers Pizza (good beer there!) to catch an act. For dinner, I highly recommend the San Antonio Taco Co. If you're trying to get a sense for the indie music scene, you should talk to people at Cafe Coco (by Exit/In) or Grimey's Music on 8th Street. Happy hunting!

Try checking out the local hotspots and checking for appearances of individual people or bands,especially in Nashville!

The Fathom has Candlebox next week, while in Chattanooga watch for Mighty Sideshow, they just played the gallery at CBGB's Also watch for the Velcro Pygmies (great fun) There are so many great bands here can't name them all.

Chattanooga:
Chad's Records is a great record store w/ lots of classic vinyl & hard to find stuff, knowledgable staff, & pretty good selection of new indie label cds.
Jairus, local band (just broke up) with some strong records
http://www.jairusmusic.com
Infradig: local instrumental faves, play out a lot
Lamar's: home to all the great underground shows & the stiffest drinks in town.

Nahsville: all the bands on Theory Eight records are excellent.
Charter Administration http://www.cartereight.com amazing power pop-ish band
Heypenny: http://www.heypenny.com put out one of the best unsigned records you will ever hear.

I'm just creating my first Pandora stations. Thank you for this brilliant machine ! I'm in NC, but can recommend a Nashville artist: Sarah Siskind. Girl singer/songwriter, yes. Exactly like the rest, no. Intelligent and soulful poetry about life, love and family coming from a mind natured and nurtured in music. www.sarahsiskind.com Happy trails !

I think you should consider stopping in Bulls Gap if you come through the area. Our town is the home of Archie Campbell,Grandpappy on Hee Haw. We have the home where he was born which is now a museum and this weekend is the Archie Campbell Homecoming Labor Day celebration. It is 3 days of music, both country and gospel. IF not this year consider coming next year. I am sure that you will like it.Or come to Morristown, the home of the Lakeway Idol contest on the 4th of July.This features our young people and also the adults as they vie in their categories for a taping in Nashville.Good luck in your travels and I will be looking forward to seeing where your travels will take you

I would seriously suggest visiting East Tennessee. In particular, I would visit Bristol and Johnson City in Northeast TN. Bristol is nationally recognized as the birthplace of country music and every year they have the Rhythym and Roots Reunion. Also, there is a place called the Down Home in Johnson City where a variety of artists play, from Doc Watson to more local artists. They cover a range of music types. These towns are only a few miles away from the town of Hiltons, VA, where the famous Carter family is from (June Carter Cash's family). It's a fantastic place for music and I highly recommend it.

I agree with Jessica Not only do we have Rhythm and Roots Reunion but we have many smaller events year round. Just in Johnson City I can Give you over 500 bands that are known with the community. Lots of great bands and the music style and taste range from Bluegrass to Hip-hop......we just need to be found.

Check out bio for Earl Hines!

Anyone looking for some good country or bluegrass music. Well i know where to look.That would be the place country music got it's start. That be in Bristol Tn.Alot of the well known country music singer came from Bristol Tn. area.

Get to Clarksville, TN check out this local band "The Departed"...they have a guitarist like I have never seen or heard in my life and I am a great guitar player of 40 years

Please consider checking out northeast Tennessee, especially Johnson City. Located on on I-26 (16 miles off I-81) , Johnson City is the home of the wonderful Down Home music venue as well as the newer Acoustic Coffeehouse. For a delicious slice of Americana, please catch Rob Russell and the Sore Losers; Rob is one of the wittiest singer/songwriters around. East Tennessee State University (ETSU) has a well respected Blue Grass program drawing talent from literally around the world. Dave Carter hosts a one hour live music/interview show each Saturday at 1 pm on WETS-FM (89.5) showcasing local and regional talent.

Be sure to visit Knoxville on the other side of the state while you're at it. The city hosts the nation's largest ska festival.

Nashville is a really great place to visit, and if no one else has already mentioned it, go check out Printers Alley, and to eat the Knoshville deli up by Vandy is great and Jacks BBQ downtown. P.S. You need to check out Knoxville sometime. Its a really great city with alot of surprises, like its the third or fourth largest in the television/ cable production industry, and is a mecca for great bands as well. Plus much much more. Oh yeah, your site is the absolute greatest music venue anywhere. Thanks for being there.

we in chatanoga, tn have many local bands ranging from blue grass, country, rock, and many others

I dig ya'll and have been telling EVERYONE on UT's campus about u...so come on down to BIG ORANGE COUNTRY an visit...lots of music history here....Elvis, Hank Williams Jr, n more.....and guess what we ARE the home of WDVX live radio (bluegrass & americana) and who woulda guessed....AC entertainement that puts on BONNAROO!!!...lotsa local cool....so WHY NOT??

this redheaded photographer thinks u should.
tru