When most folks think of U.S. musical history and its roots, Nashville, TN probably comes to mind. From the Fisk Jubilee Singers who came from Nashville’s Fisk University to the Grand Ole Opry radio program launched in the 1920s, it’s no surprise that Nashville’s nickname is ‘Music City.’ Did you know that it was actually Queen Victoria of the UK who dubbed Nashville as the Music City? The Fisk Jubilee Singers went on tour through the UK and Europe in the late 1800s and Queen Victoria, enraptured by the sounds of their voices, said they must have been from Music City. Thus, a nickname was born and has stuck for decades since.

Now, the city has also become known as the ‘Songwriting Capital of the World.’ Nashville is also the birthplace of many, many talented musicians, including Miley Cyrus and Kesha. In fact, the Country Music Hall of Fame resides in Music City. From Johnny Cash and Etta James to Bob Dylan and Dolly Parton, Nashville has seen some of the world’s greatest talent pass through.

Of course, Nashville today is synonymous with country music. Not only is Nashville the capital of Tennessee, this city is the capital of country music. You can likely catch other genres of music here but Music City is ideal for the cowboy boot-wearing, honky-tonk-loving country music fans in the world.

Nashville has big venues such as Nissan Stadium, where you can catch a big-time artist. However, Ryman Auditorium, which opened in 1892, is perhaps the most famous live music venue in the city. Known for hosting the Grand Ole Opry for over three decades and The Johnny Cash Show from 1969-1971, Ryman is a legend in the Nashville music circuit. To perform there is to ‘make it’ in Music City. From Johnny Cash to Taylor Swift, the greatest country stars have graced Ryman’s stage.

Nashville Concert Venues

To catch a live performance from a mega country or pop star, Nashville offers Nissan Stadium with a capacity of nearly 70,000. Of course, Ryman Auditorium is a great downtown venue with a rich historic background. But there are so many other local bars that offer live music. 3rd & Lindsley, located in Rutledge Hill, offers a neighborhood vibe with both local talent and megastars passing through. In fact, Sheryl Crow, Ed Sheeran, and Lady Antebellum have all performed at 3rd & Lindsley. Other great spots to catch a show include Bluebird Cafe, Mercy Lounge, and Marathon Music Works. Exit/In and the Grand Ole Opry are, of course, legendary venues as well.

Nashville Concert Ticket Prices

The average cost of concert tickets in Nashville is $135 per ticket. Please keep in mind that pricing is subject to change depending on the performer, the day of the week that the performance falls on, and a variety of other factors.

Nashville Music Festivals

What would Music City be without a couple of fantastic festivals? No matter what time of year you visit, there is always something on the calendar in Nashville. Perhaps the most popular is the Country Music Association (CMA) Music Festival. This four-day festival is every country music fan’s dream come true. Held each year at Nissan Stadium, past performers have included Miranda Lambert, Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan, Dierks Bentley, and many, many more legends of the genre. Looking for a free music festival? Check out Nashville’s Live on the Green outdoor music festival, held each August through September in Nashville Public Square Park. Past artists have included Passion Pit, Cage the Elephant, Sheryl Crow, and many more. Volunteer Jam is another annual music festival held in the War Memorial Auditorium.

What are some concert tips and tricks for catching bands in Nashville?

The great thing about Nashville is that you can enjoy live music all year-round, 24/7, whenever you’d like! Simply strolling down the streets of Nashville, you’ll hear music and can find plenty of spots to stop in and enjoy a show. Head over to venues along Honky Tonk Highway – from Layla's Bluegrass Inn to Tootsie's Orchid Lounge, there’s always a show to see here. Looking for a free, family-friendly music event? Check out Musicians Corner at Centennial Park each Saturday in May, June, September, and October. Cumberland Park is another great spot to see a free live show every third Sunday from May to October.

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