History of Country Music

5 Places to Visit | Plan for 3-4 days

If you prefer a little twang with your music, Tennessee is your state for country music. From Bristol to Nashville and dabbled throughout the state, country music lovers get the most authentic experience in Tennessee.

Start the timeline in Bristol at the Country Music Marker/Mural, a tribute to 1927 "Bristol Sessions" where first recordings of country music occurred. It is recognized as the "Official Birthplace of Country Music." Take in the history of country music at the Birthplace of Country Music Alliance Museum, as you listen to traditional Appalachian music and see exhibits and artifacts from the performers of this region.

Move southwest to Knoxville and the Cradle of Country Music Walking Tour. Take a stroll through downtown Knoxville and country music history from pioneer ballads to rockabilly.

Bristol may have been its birthplace, but country music has spent much of its days in Nashville. If you’re lucky enough to visit Nashville in the summer, catch the Country Music Association Music Festival with scheduled stage shows and picture and autograph sessions. And of course, you must pay a visit to the Country Music Hall of Fame as well as the Grand Ole Opry. Both venues take you on a journey through country music’s history and legends. Finally, finish your trip by line-dancing the night away in the Wildhorse Saloon.

Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

Nashville, TN
Rediscover the music you love, again and again, at the Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum. This scrap ...more

Grand Ole Opry

Nashville, TN
The unique art form we call country music owes its phenomenal rise in popularity to a live show that bega ...more

Wildhorse Saloon

Nashville, TN
"Nashville's number one dining and entertainment destination." Renowned for live country music and ser ...more

Country Music Marker/Mural

Bristol, TN
Tribute to 1927 "Bristol Sessions" where first recordings of country music occurred. Recognized as "Of ...more

Birthplace of Country Music Alliance Museum

Bristol, TN
Exhibits and artifacts on traditional Appalachian music and performers from the region. Live music every ...more

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