The song “Nashville Cats” by The Lovin’ Spoonful famously claims there are “thirteen hundred and fifty-two Guitar Pickers in Nashville.” After experiencing just a short time in this vibrant city, it’s clear that number might be a vast understatement. While John Sebastian penned that tune in the mid-1960s, it’s safe to assume the guitar-playing population of Nashville has exploded since then, solidifying its reputation as a mecca for guitar pickers from all walks of life.
Our journey to Nashville was scenic, taking us through the breathtaking landscapes of Western North Carolina and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Choosing the less hurried routes allowed us to truly appreciate the beauty of the region before arriving in Music City.
Mingo Falls in North Carolina
Arriving in Nashville by mid-afternoon, the city immediately lived up to its musical moniker. Even our hotel, located near the Grand Ole Opry, boasted decor that was a clear nod to Nashville’s rich musical heritage.
Hotel room decor near Grand Ole Opry, Nashville
The evening’s main event was a concert at the legendary Ryman Auditorium. Serendipitously, blues guitar icon Buddy Guy was performing, and we were fortunate enough to secure tickets. Recognized as one of the greatest guitarists of all time, ranking high on Rolling Stone’s list, Buddy Guy’s presence at the Ryman was a testament to Nashville’s diverse and deep musical roots, attracting guitar pickers and music lovers of all genres.
Before the show, we enjoyed dinner at Merchant’s, a restaurant with historical ties to the Ryman. Housed in a building that once served as a hotel for Ryman performers, it felt like stepping back in time, further immersing ourselves in Nashville’s musical legacy. As we walked towards the Ryman, we encountered a mural celebrating country music’s greats, a visual reminder of the countless guitar pickers who have graced Nashville’s stages.
Mural of country music legends in Nashville near Ryman Auditorium
The Ryman Auditorium itself is steeped in guitar history. Known as the “Mother Church of Country Music,” it served as the home of the Grand Ole Opry for decades and is also credited as the birthplace of bluegrass. This iconic venue provided a platform for pioneers like Bill Monroe, whose music, amplified by WSM radio broadcasts, reached millions of homes across America. A plaque and a bronze statue commemorate Bill Monroe and his mandolin, solidifying the Ryman’s place in guitar and bluegrass history.
Plaque commemorating Bill Monroe at the Ryman Auditorium, Nashville
Bronze statue of Bill Monroe with his mandolin at the Ryman Auditorium
Witnessing Buddy Guy perform at such a venue felt like a convergence of musical worlds. Despite the Ryman’s country and bluegrass heritage, the blues resonated perfectly within its walls. Buddy Guy, a true master of his craft, delivered an unforgettable performance, showcasing the raw talent and showmanship that defines legendary guitar pickers.
Buddy Guy performing live at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville
After the concert, Broadway beckoned. Seeking a quieter spot amidst the bustling music scene, we soon realized that quiet was not an option. Every other building was a bar, each overflowing with live music, predominantly country, country-rock, and rock. The sheer density of live music venues and, by extension, guitar pickers, was astounding. Even in a less raucous bar we eventually found, the undercurrent of musical talent was palpable.
Nashville truly earns its “Music City” moniker. It’s a place where guitar pickers thrive, where music pours out of every doorway, and where the legacy of guitar legends continues to inspire. Our brief immersion into Nashville’s music scene left us eager to explore more, including a planned trip to Rosine, Kentucky, the birthplace of another guitar legend, further solidifying our understanding of why Nashville is the heartland for guitar pickers everywhere.
