top music venues

Ryman Auditorium

There’s a reason they call it the Mother Church of Country Music — with the stained-glass windows, the pews instead of traditional theater seating, and the rich history wafting through the air, concerts at the Ryman feel more like you’re experiencing some kind of spiritual revival rather than just catching another concert. The famed auditorium also offers tours.

The Basement

This intimate rock club boasts some of the best sound in Music City, with a full calendar of singer-songwriters, rock ’n’ roll bands and soul outfits — not to mention the friendly staff and full bar — that keeps the place filled to the brim most nights.

The Bluebird Cafe

Essentially the CBGB of landmark singer-songwriter haunts, this tiny, no-introductionnecessary hole-in-the-wall is where struggling and established songsmiths alike often woodshed and showcase future big hits for the first time.

City Winery

This spacious Pie Town venue hosts a menagerie of events, from live music to trivia to the occasional happy-hour yoga session. The space is broken up into a few different rooms — there’s the restaurant, which serves lunch, dinner and brunch; the lounge, where they have trivia, DJs and happy hours; and the main showroom, featuring both local and touring acts.

Drkmttr

Nashville’s only DIY all-ages venue, Drkmttr hosts an array of music from hip-hop to hardcore punk to dance, with local artists and touring acts equally represented.