Nashville’s Music Scene: A Melodious Evolution
Ah, Nashville – the city that strums the strings of the heart and has a melody for every soul! Known as Music City, Nashville has seen a transformation over the years, drawing tourists like moths to a flame. Colin Reed, the executive chairman of Ryman Hospitality Properties, shares that the days of old fan clubs, where artists would pen personalized letters, are long gone. Today, artists reach out to millions of fans through the wonders of social media.
Nashville’s musical journey picked up steam thanks to the iconic Grand Ole Opry and WSM radio, which gained traction in the ’50s to ’70s. Artists who got a taste of success from these platforms found their music flying off vinyl records, and that drew many to the city. Reed reflects, “So many artists from other places realized they needed to make the move to Nashville to tap into this successful music ecosystem.” This ecosystem comprises artists, songwriters, managers, and record labels, all coming together in one vibrant city.
A Shift in Perspective
Reed emphasizes a shift in how artists view themselves: “These artists have transitioned from being mere performers to becoming brands.” He reminisces about a conversation with Blake Shelton, who, with the rise of shows like The Voice, evolved into more than just a singer. Reed encouraged Shelton to think of himself as a brand. This brainstorming session sparked the idea for Ole Red, a concept that allows Shelton to connect with fans in a more engaging manner.
Fast forward, and Ole Red has taken flight with six buzzing locations in Nashville, Las Vegas, Orlando, and even Blake’s hometown of Tishomingo, Oklahoma. But that’s not all! Ryman is all set to team up with another star, Luke Combs, for a new venture dubbed Category 10.
Celebrity Partnerships on the Rise
Ryman Hospitality’s connection to the music industry opens doors to budding artists dreaming of one day gracing the Grand Ole Opry stage. Reed explains, “We have strong relationships with these artists and can identify those who have the potential for lasting success, like Shelton and Combs.”
The excitement doesn’t stop there. Earlier this year, BPH Hospitality joined the trend by launching JBJ’s bar with rock icon Jon Bon Jovi. Another addition to Nashville’s dynamic bar scene is the Hank Williams Jr. Boogie Bar, which opened in October 2023. Sean Marshall, BPH’s president, shares that they aim to partner with influential artists to elevate Nashville’s entertainment landscape.
Interestingly, the Joseph family behind BPH notes how Bon Jovi’s association with Nashville paved the way for this partnership. “He’s recorded much of his music here and has a genuine connection with the city,” says Sydni Joseph, one of the co-founders.
Boosting Nashville’s Economy
The rise in celebrity bars not only enhances the experience for visitors but significantly impacts the economy. The Nashville Convention and Visitors Corp recently reported a record 16.8 million visitors in 2023, leading to an astonishing $10.56 billion spent by visitors! Colin Reed highlights that these artist-centered venues are more than just bars – they attract fans who stay in hotels, dine locally, and dive into the Nashville experience.
Marshall adds, “The talent present in Nashville and the surrounding areas is unrivaled. This city thrives because every ounce of effort, from artists to bar staff, fuels the vibrant music scene.” And as Nashville continues to shine, housing affordability for its workforce remains a pressing concern. Both Reed and Marshall agree that addressing this issue is crucial to sustaining the growth of Nashville’s hospitality industry.
Enter the New Era of Entertainment
As the demand for Nashville’s musical offerings continues to grow, the potential for new venues appears boundless. Reed envisions a future where Nashville serves as a “farm system” for emerging artists, facilitating cross-marketing opportunities that boost the city’s status further.
Moreover, investors from outside the city, like TC Restaurant Group, have joined the craze, bringing celebrity-named venues to life. From FGL House to Lainey Wilson’s Bell Bottoms Up, these establishments add to the rich tapestry of Nashville’s nightlife.
The Future is Bright
In a city as diverse and creative as Nashville, the collaboration between music and hospitality ensures the sound of music won’t fade anytime soon. As Reed notes, “What we’re witnessing is not just a phase; it’s a part of an ever-evolving experience that creates lasting memories for visitors from all walks of life.”
As the sun sets over the neon lights of Broadway, Nashville welcomes each evening with open arms, inviting both locals and tourists to soak in the magic of Music City. The golden days are far from over; they’re just getting started!
