jeudi 1 novembre 2018

The Music Row Walking Tour Nashville TN

By Ann Morgan


When traveling, it can often be fun to visit historic and interesting areas. When it comes to Nashville, one of the most popular is that of the Music Row Walking Tour. While there have been self-guided walks in the past, there are a number of sights and sounds which can not be accessed unless visitors are part of a group. In addition, the narration associated with the new tour provides a great deal more insight into the history of the city and the local music scene.

While there are guided maps visitors can follow on a self-guided walk, it can often be good to have a guide. For, the walking tour provides a narrative history which provides a great deal of insight into the history of the city and those involved in the music scene. While this is the case, there are also other tours which include the National Trust for Historic Preservation along with Historic Tours of America's Town Trolley Cars along with others.

Visitors can now walk through districts of the city learning about the history and roots dating back to the early days of Nashville's sound. Beginning in the early to mid-1950s and 1960s with an overview of artists such as Patsy Cline, Loretta Lynn, Bob Dylan and Elvis Presley all of whom at one time or another recorded albums at studios in the area. Whereas, the tour next highlights artists such as Neil Young and others whom were popular in the 1970s.

The journey continues to spots which have inspired classic and current artists. For example, in the 1980s, there was a rebirth with regards to the popularity of classic country. In fact, many of those whom had become famous in the past, such as Willie Nelson, Tammy Wynette and Dolly Parton as well as others were once again topping the country charts. While progressive country artists were becoming more and more popular well into the 1990s.

The tour takes approximately 1 1/2 hours with the guide providing a narrative about various spots along the way. Guides often take individuals through a number of businesses such as publishing houses, recording studios and management offices which have produced some of the biggest names in country music. Whereas, individual visitors are often allowed by appointment.

During the guided experience, guests will enjoy walking through a number of neighborhoods with homes of current and past musicians along with commercial buildings. In doing so, those on the tour will find that the area truly is the heart and soul of the music scene in Nashville. For, when visiting the area, visitors will find publishing houses, record labels, recording studios and private homes.

While many recording studios and publishing houses can be accessed on self-guided walks, most require an appointment for individuals whom are not part of a group. In addition, while most often admission fees are covered in the price of a ticket, some require a nominal admission fee or requested donation for individuals. In either case, there are often discounts available from organizations such as Triple A and AARP.

Currently the walks occur on Wednesdays through Saturdays though it is important to call ahead to assure a tour is going to take place. In addition, there can often be long lines to obtain tickets, especially during the Summer which is often the most popular and populated with regards to various operators. As such, operators advising obtaining tickets in advance when and where possible.




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