While the Ryman has a reputation for drawing incredible musicians to play its renowned stage, The Bluebird Cafe is more quietly known for songwriters looking to get their start. For example, not everyone knows that Taylor Swift and Garth Brooks both tried out material at this tiny venue first! The little gem was once truly only known by Nashville Natives, but exploded into the spotlight with the ABC show Nashville.
So, whether you are old or new to Music City, here’s what you need to know about The BlueBird Cafe:
- It opened in 1982
- Amy Kurland opened The Bluebird as an opportunity for songwriters to showcase their work
- It’s Songwriter In The Round format allows up to 10 songwriters to perform 3 songs, and on Sundays it ends with a special guest performance by a hit songwriter
- Auditions to play are held quarterly….and songwriters will fly in just for this opportunity
- It only seats 100 people
- The performers are given complete respect – guests are “shushed” if talking while a someone is playing
- Incredible artists are likely to pop in on any given night
- The ABC show Nashville uses The Bluebird Cafe as the place where many of the characters work while trying to make it in the music industry – making the cafe a household name for millions
- Reservations are tough to come by, must be made in advance, and can be done via phone or online
- There are NO RESERVATIONS on Sunday or Monday nights -first come, first serve so go early
Once one of Nashville’s best kept secrets, The Bluebird Cafe is now one of the most requested places to visit among Nashville tourists and guests. It remains a mecca for songwriters and is an incredible opportunity to experience some of the most talented ones in the industry.
Looking for a house in Nashville so you can enjoy The Bluebird Cafe and other uniquely Nashville venues? Call DeSelms Real Estate today at 615.550.5565!
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