Nashville, TN

Following on the heels of Bonnaroo, some buddies and I went to Nashville, TN for a few days. The first night, I must admit, we spent in a nice hotel – sleeping. It was exactly what we needed after our four days camping, partying, listening to music, and generally causing a ruckus.

The following day we woke late and had a leisurely brunch at a nearby restaurant recommended to us by the concierge. Ellendales served a buffet style southern brunch, both reasonable and delicious. Lamb, beef, white fish and a smattering of sides including the very southern fried pickle delighted our senses. We enjoyed our meal sitting on the porch and overlooking a lovely garden. Our bill came at under $20.00 a head, including alcohol; needless to say we were pleased.

Having recharged at a nice hotel, our next stop was Music City Hostel fairly close to down town Nashville. And a great little hostel it is. The staff was very friendly and helpful finding us beds despite being overbooked (the slew of Bonnaroo kids had booked it well in advance). The beds were comfortable and the rooms cool.

That night we ventured out to downtown Nashville. And a wild night it was. The very first bar we walked into happened to not only offer live music, but also be shooting a music video. Yours truly could very well be in the video for “One More Drinking Song” by Jarred Neiman. And you all know how much I love country. The night was filled with live music, and plenty of beer and whiskey.

The following morning we ventured back down town to the Country Music Hall of Fame. Inside you could see such rarities as a Elvis’s solid gold Cadillac, many dozen multi platinum records, famous musician’s instruments, and, perhaps my favorite, their outfits. Some of country music’s style is… unique in a surprisingly flamboyant manner. Who says you can’t be a true blue American while wearing a suite made entirely of purple and gold sequins…

Lunch was served at Jack’s BBQ, apparently famous in Nashville. And with good cause, everything was delicious in the smothered in BBQ sauce and grease way. Just as good BBQ should be. After lunch it was back to the hostel for a quick recharge before going to the Grand Ole Opry for a country music show.

Now normally, I would never go to a country music show. I was in Nashville, and a friend really wanted to go. So we went. It was a total of eight acts, each fifteen minutes long. As I quickly found out, the entire show is broadcast over the air, both online and through good ol’ fashioned radio. I won’t claim to remember all the acts, let alone one of them. One of my favorites, for their music, reminded me immensely of Nickel Creek. They were delightful. My other two favorites came from ancient country music stars. Both, I think, were over 90 years old. They were hilarious, though I admit I didn’t care much for their music. A guess you reach a certain age, and you’ll say damned near anything, to anyone, about anyone, on air. On the whole, it was a great night.

All in all, Nashville’s a great town, great fun, great people. Next off to Pigeon Forge, TN.