A couple weeks ago I made it down to Nashville for the first time in my life. Fellow DC musicians and friends Brian Franke and Brad Pugh made the 9.5 hour drive with me down to Tennessee to play a couple open mics, network, meet up with some friends, and just absorb and learn what the Nashville music scene is all about. 

I could write a novel about my trip down there. But I will give the brief highlights:

I saw my favorite VA band Carbon Leaf play at Exit/In, and got to hang with them after the show. I played an open mic at The Commadore and The Bluebird (which is a legendary venue, and without a doubt the best open mic in the country). I went to Fisk University to buy a few t-shirts so people think I’m important when I wear them. I had amazing bbq at Hog Heaven. Had way too much fun getting to know the bar scene; 3 Crow Bar, Toosies, The 5 Spot (East Nashville rocks!) and a million more. Met a pile of amazing musicians including Trevor Finlay, Nicole Neff, Autumn Reynolds, Steve Goodie, Chad Elliot, 18-year old Morgan Frazier (she’s going places, trust me), and several others. 

I was blown away at the collaborative nature between the musicians of Nashville. I was in awe of the sheer volume of musicians and venues. Everybody was incredibly nice (well, almost everybody), and our 5 day trip was short enough that I want to make it back there as soon as possible. I’m not sure I’m ready to move to Music City, but I certainly want to visit and tour on a regular basis.

Till next time Nashville. Keep a mic warm for me.