Nashville’s Newest Cultural Treasure: A Humorous Guide to Music City
Nashville, the thriving heart of Tennessee, is more than just a hub for country music—it’s a vibrant, growing city full of quirks, anecdotes, and surprising history. And now, thanks to Michelle Spiva, both long-time residents and newcomers can dive into the delightful oddities that make Nashville what it is. Her new book, Music City Musings: Old Nashville Knowledge for Newcomers, published just a few days ago, is a friendly invitation for everyone to understand and appreciate Music City in a whole new light.
Meet the Author
Born and raised in Kentucky, Michelle’s journey to Nashville started at Vanderbilt University. Initially overwhelmed by the sprawling campus and the bustling city, she found her footing and never looked back. After spending two decades practicing law, Michelle turned a lifelong passion for homebuilding into a career. She now focuses on redesigning and remodeling homes, a process she delights in alongside her husband, who works in real estate.
A Fun Idea Takes Shape
The concept for her book came about during casual dinner chats with friends, where they explored the unique quirks and culture of Nashville. With laughter, storytelling, and shared experiences, they touched on subjects that only locals truly understand, from the amusing to the slightly frustrating. “It was a blast,” Michelle exclaimed, recalling one dinner party where they critiqued the unique way Nashvillians drive. Through these outings, Michelle decided to compile a humorous and insightful guide, designed for both newcomers and seasoned residents who might not catch every local reference.
What’s Inside?
In her book, Michelle dives deep into several fascinating aspects of Nashville life. She’s particularly eager to highlight local foods and hangouts that define the city, noting that her writing leans towards places like Swett’s and Bobbie’s Dairy Dip rather than the more upscale dining experiences. This approachable style offers a relatable experience for all, crafting a narrative that feels warm and familiar.
Fans of Nashville culture will enjoy her dedication to showcasing the regional slang. Michelle was surprised to find herself with eight pages of terms, revealing the rich, often amusing language that locals use daily. “I thought maybe I’d have two pages,” she laughed. Her book is more than just a collection of witty observations; it’s a walking tour with a local guide at your side, showing you the nuances, charm, and rhythm of the city.
The Changing City
One of the most surprising parts of her research was learning about the stark transformation occurring in the Nashville landscape. For instance, a building on Broadway that sold for just $3 million in 2005 now commands nearly $48 million. While this certainly reflects Nashville’s growth, Michelle also shares a poignant truth about the equally notable demolitions happening on Music Row—growing from 13 in 12 years to over 50 in just six years. Through these stories, she captures the spirit of a city in flux, sparking a sense of nostalgia and a little heartache for its changing face.
Hobbies and Passions
Outside of writing, Michelle has a zest for adventure, inspired by her grandmother’s philosophy of trying something new every decade. Whether hiking in the beautiful landscapes of places like Norway or playing pickleball, she embodies her family’s spirit of exploration. Along with her love for travel, she finds joy in her dog Evie and the great outdoors.
A Bright Future Ahead
While the journey of publishing her book is keeping her busy, Michelle isn’t stopping there. She’s considering future projects that blend her passion for remodeling with her love of architecture, potentially showcasing homes designed by the famed architect, Robert Anderson. With so much on her plate, who knows what exciting prospect awaits!
Pick Up Your Copy
If you’re a Nashville local or a newcomer eager to understand the local culture, Music City Musings is a fabulous addition to your library. Michelle’s delightful and insightful book is a must-read for anyone who calls this vibrant city home or is looking to know more about it. Get ready to laugh, learn, and love Music City like never before!
