By Jackie Minton
As a new Nashville native, many of my friends ask me where they can hear good live music. Now if you’re looking for a night of classic country covers, Broadway is your best bet. But off Music Row, where do the locals go to get their music fill? Now that you are here, search no further. I have compiled a list of the best independent music venues in the Nashville and I am ready to get you listening like a local.
1. The Basement East
Located at 917 Woodland St., The Basement East has been home to a number of budding and established acts. Noted for hosting quirky shows such as singer-songwriter Charlie Worsham’s annual John Mayerathon and world-renowned acts such as Avi Kapplan, former member of the Pentatonix, a bad night at Basement East is slim to none. Last time I went to a show here, I turned around to see Leon Bridges listening in the midst of the crowd behind me. If that isn’t enough of a seal of approval— I don’t know what is.
Derek Webb plays to an attentive crowd at The Basement East. Photo by Maggie Adams
2. Mercy Lounge
This cozy venue features acts from across the board of the independent music. This upstairs brick hall is surprisingly cozy when filled with strangers. The packed atmosphere is balanced by sweeping, silent fans hung above the crowd— making for a notably pleasing (and less sweaty) listening experience. May be TMI, but you’ll thank me later! Performers range from pop-rock to folk-americana, but the air is always filled with an excitement from the crowd. Pictured below, Nashville-based artist Jill Andrews performs as a part of the city’s annual Americana Fest. Jill is set to return to Mercy Lounge on April 2nd (4/2/20) to celebrate the release of her upcoming album Thirties. This is an anticipated night you won’t want to miss! (Get your tickets here!)
Jill Andrews performs for Nashville’s annual Americana Fest on Mercy’s Stage. Photo by Erin Anderson.
3. 3rd & Lindsley
The slogan of this warehouse is “Good music. Good food. Good friends.” Fittingly, 3rd & Lindsley hosts both artists and songwriters, featuring a breadth of the music local and traveling through music city. Ranging from a table-and-chairs listening room experience to a standing-room-only concert hall, this indie venue is versatile and compatible with all kinds of audiences. Shown below the folk-rock duo Smooth Hound Smith steals the stage of this prominent Nashville venue.
Americana-Rock Band Smooth Hound Smith takes the stage at 3rd & Lindsley. Photo by Maggie Adams.
4. The 5 Spot
On the East side of Nashville, The 5 Spot occupies the cozy and cool corner of the city. They feature everything from throwback dance parties reminiscent of the 70s and rising country acts, such as Ruthie Collins. Their unexpected mix of shows blend well into the host of bars and restaurants popping all over East Nashville. This 21 & up club is noted for their relaxed vibes and spunky entertainment!
Ruthie Collins pulls her audience close during this intimate show at The 5 Spot. Photo by Madeline Heiskell.
5. The Bluebird Cafe
Known best for spotlighting artists like Garth Brooks and Taylor Swift early in their careers, the Bluebird Cafe is often filled with listeners from all over the world. Even still, this landmark is a resting place for some of Nashville’s local jewels. It may be last in this list, but it is certainly not least! The venue’s popularity has only garnered with their common feature on the previous hit show Nashville and the late release of the documentary film, Bluebird. Nestled between Whole Foods and a Tuesday Morning, this whole in the wall is not one you want to miss. Pictured below the Americana duo Smooth Hound Smith performs at this neighborhood icon.
Indie Americana duo, Smooth Hound Smith performs below the neon bluebird. Photo by Madeline Heiskell.