Take a Music Journey Through Tennessee

Tennessee is the home to seven genres of music -- blues, bluegrass, rock n' roll, rockabilly, country, gospel and soul -- and is internationally known for its music significance and contributions from timeless songwriters, legendary artists and talented musicians. You've heard the songs, now experience the hallowed sites that birthed and broadcasted the sounds that changed the world.

Music History in Tennessee

Tennessee Music Pathways - Statewide

• The Tennessee Music Pathways connect you to the people, places and events that made Tennessee the international music mecca it has become.

• Throughout the 95 counties of the state, you can see legendary artists' hometowns, famous music venues, museums dedicated to sharing this rich music history in interactive ways and much more.

Tina Turner Museum at Flagg Grove School – Brownsville

Celebrate the life and legacy of the “Queen of Rock ’n’ Roll” in her childhood schoolhouse.

• Located near her hometown of Nutbush, the Tina Turner Museum showcases her stage costumes, awards and early-life memorabilia.

• Learn the story behind her first self-written hit, “Nutbush City Limits,” which reflects her upbringing.

• Explore what school was like for African American children in rural Tennessee during the mid-20th century. It’s a powerful tribute to one of the most iconic artists from Tennessee.

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Birthplace of Country Music Museum – Bristol

Step into the “Big Bang” of country music at this Smithsonian-affiliated museum.

• Discover the historic 1927 Bristol Sessions at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum, where artists like the Carter Family and Jimmie Rodgers were first recorded.

• Enjoy immersive exhibits, including listening stations, archival footage and re-created recording sessions.

• Learn how these recordings shaped the roots of modern country music Tennessee is known for.

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Songbirds Guitar & Pop Culture Museum - Chattanooga

Strum through history in a museum that celebrates the world’s most iconic instrument.

• The Songbirds Museum features rotating exhibits on guitars and the artists who made them famous.

• Hands-on displays, rare instruments and community music programs are available.

• Every $100 raised helps fund a guitar and 10 weeks of lessons for a child in the South—a mission that aligns with the deep legacy of Tennessee musicians.

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Loretta Lynn’s Ranch – Hurricane Mills

Explore the life of the Coal Miner’s Daughter on her very own ranch.

• Loretta Lynn's Ranch houses a museum filled with Lynn’s awards, costumes and personal mementos.

• Explore rustic cabins, a grist mill, and additional collections like the Native American Artifacts and Fan Museums.

• A must-see destination that embodies the spirit of what Tennessee is known for.

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Museum Center at 5ive Points – Cleveland

Discover how one hymnal helped shape the sound of Southern gospel.

• The Museum Center at 5ive Points hosts the Red Back Hymnal exhibit with original printing equipment and gospel recordings.

• Try shape-note singing or explore additional exhibits on the history and heritage of the Ocoee Region to understand what is tn known for when it comes to gospel traditions.

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T. B. Sutton General Store – Granville 

A Saturday night at the general store brings music, food and history together.

• At the T. B. Sutton General Store, guests enjoy a family-style meat-and-three dinner followed by a live radio bluegrass show.

• Located on the banks of Cordell Hull Lake, the store is one of the oldest remaining in the South and full of turn-of-the-century charm, highlighting the down-home atmosphere Tennessee country is known for.

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Lester Flatt’s Gravesite & Memorial – Sparta  

Pay homage to one of bluegrass’ greatest icons.

• Visit Lester Flatt’s Memorial and gravesite in downtown Sparta.

• Learn about his legacy with Flatt & Scruggs and attend the annual Liberty Square Celebration in his honor—an essential stop for fans of traditional Tennessee musicians.

• A stop that’s central to what is Tennessee known for across the bluegrass world.

Patsy Cline Plane Crash Memorial – Camden 

Reflect on one of the most tragic losses in country music.

• The Patsy Cline Memorial marks the 1963 crash that took the lives of Patsy Cline, Cowboy Copas and Hawkshaw Hawkins.

• A quiet, wooded setting offers a space for reflection and remembrance. It’s one of the most moving places to experience what is Tennessee most known for—its heartfelt music legacy.

Legends of Tennessee Music Museum – Jackson

Walk through the careers of some of Tennessee’s most impactful performers.

• The Legends of Tennessee Music Museum displays memorabilia from Carl Perkins, Denise LaSalle and Sonny Boy Williamson.

• Located in the Carnegie Center, just a short walk from Jackson’s vibrant downtown—a fitting way to discover what is Tennessee known for in the world of rockabilly, soul and blues.

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Elvis Presley’s Memphis at Graceland – Memphis

Explore the life and career of the King of Rock ’n’ Roll.

• Graceland includes the famous Jungle Room, trophy hall and Elvis’s car collection.

• Don’t miss the Meditation Garden, where Elvis and his family are laid to rest—offering insight into what is the state of Tennessee known for.

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Memphis Music Hall of Fame – Memphis

A tribute to the musicians who changed the sound of the world.

• Visit the Memphis Music Hall of Fame to explore memorabilia and interactive exhibits from legends like B.B. King, Isaac Hayes and more. A must-visit if you're curious about what is Tennessee known for in American music history.

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Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum – Nashville

Experience one of the world’s largest repositories of country music history.

• The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum houses more than 2 million artifacts, including instruments, stage costumes, and archival film and audio.

• Explore exhibits on artists from the 1920s to today, including Hank Williams, Reba McEntire, and Taylor Swift.

• Enjoy hands-on galleries and the famous CMA Theater, all dedicated to what Tennessee country has inspired across generations.

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National African American Music Museum - Nashville

Celebrate the artists and genres that shaped American culture.

• The National Museum of African American Music is the first of its kind, honoring Black musicians and the creation of genres like gospel, jazz, R&B, and hip hop.

• Explore interactive exhibits, listen to historic recordings, and learn how African American artists laid the foundation for much of what is what is Tennessee most known for musically.

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Ryman Auditorium - Nashville

Step inside one of the most legendary music venues in the world.

• The Ryman Auditorium is known as the “Mother Church of Country Music” and was the original home of the Grand Ole Opry.

• Tour exhibits about Elvis, Johnny Cash, and Dolly Parton, or catch a live show from today’s biggest stars.

• One of the top answers to what is Tennessee most known for, the Ryman brings fans and performers together like no other place.

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Music Walking Tours in Tennessee

Cradle of Country Music Walking Tour – Knoxville

Stroll through Knoxville’s music-rich past on this self-guided adventure.

• The Cradle of Country Music Walking Tour includes 15 markers honoring Dolly Parton, Roy Acuff, and other Tennessee legends.

• Learn how Knoxville influenced early jazz, blues, country, and rock ’n’ roll—showcasing what is Tennessee known for at its roots.

• Great for self-paced exploration; no admission ticket required.

Historic Music Row Walking Tour - Nashville

Step into the heart of Music City with this historic route.

• Follow the Music Row Walking Tour past RCA Studios A & B, BMI, SESAC and more.

• A mile-long, self-guided stroll past industry landmarks and stories behind Nashville’s rise to fame—capturing things Tennessee is known for like no other street.

• No ticket required, but guided options are available.

Music Venues and Theaters in Tennessee

Paramount Center for the Arts – Bristol

Catch concerts and cultural events in this landmark theater.

• The Paramount Bristol Center for the Arts has hosted music legends and touring acts since 1931.

• The beautiful Art Deco interior enhances the live show experience.

Bijou Theatre – Knoxville

A historic space for music, theater, and unforgettable performances.

• The Bijou Theatre has welcomed acts like The Ramones and Richard Thompson in one of the South’s best acoustical venues.

• Its legacy stretches back to 1909 and continues with a full seasonal lineup.

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WDVX Blue Plate Special – Knoxville

Live music at lunchtime in downtown Knoxville.

• At the WDVX Blue Plate Special, enjoy free weekday concerts at the Knoxville Visitor Center.

• Bring your lunch and enjoy bluegrass, folk, and Americana from rising and established acts. It’s a local tradition that reveals what is tn known for—community, culture, and song.

• Free to attend; no ticket necessary.

3rd & Lindsley - Nashville

A favorite venue among locals and touring artists.

• The 3rd & Lindsley stage has welcomed artists like Norah Jones, Zac Brown Band and Jason Isbell.

• Known for its sound system, casual food menu and up-close experience.

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Shop for Vinyl in Tennessee

For the Record – Chattanooga 

A vinyl lover’s dream with vintage flair.

• For the Record offers new and used records, collectibles and posters.

• Staff curate selections from rock, soul, jazz, country and more. A charming destination tied to the legacy of musicians from Tennessee.

AndVinyl Records – Clarksville 

Step into a boutique record store full of analog treasures.

• AndVinyl Records stocks vinyl, cassettes and turntables from top brands.

• Trade, sell, or browse through a welcoming collection curated for music lovers.

Goner Records - Memphis

A music label, store and annual rock ’n’ roll fest all in one.

• Goner Records is co-owned by Eric Friedl of The Oblivians and curates punk, garage and indie rock.

• Hosts the annual Goner Fest, celebrating underground artists from around the world—a staple for discovering new artists from Tennessee.

• Find vinyl, merch, posters, zines and more.

Tennessee is home to many music sites that introduce you to the sounds made within these borders that helped change the world. Plan your own music journey through Tennessee.