There’s no shortage of historic country music sites across the U.S. Everyone knows about The Ryman, the Opry and the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum – all beloved venues that should be honored. But what about the lesser known and less visited sites? At a time when some of the genre’s most respected spaces face destruction, we should make a point to visit country’s historic landmarks and buildings to show their importance in shaping the music we love. Here are 10 historic country music landmarks to add to your bucket list.
1. Ernest Tubb Record Shop
True to its name, the Ernest Tubb Record Shop was founded by country legend Ernest Tubb in 1947. The shop moved to Nashville’s Lower Broadway in 1951 and has been a Music City mainstay ever since. It’s also one of the hottest tickets in town on Saturday nights, when the Midnite Jamboree packs in locals and tourists alike for a free performance from one of country music’s best. The Midnite Jamboree is the second longest running radio show in history.
2. Jimmie Rodgers Birthplace
Jimmie Rodgers was one of country music’s first superstars and is widely considered to be the father on the genre. The “Blue Yodeler” grew up in Meridian, Miss. and the town is incredibly proud of their hometown hero. Meridian has a Jimmie Rodgers memorial, monument and museum to celebrate the legend’s contribution to country music.
3. Johnny Cash’s Boyhood Home
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Any country music fan knows how an artist’s upbringing can shape their music. Johnny Cash was no exception. The Man in Black grew up in the Dyess Colonyin Dyess, Ark., which was created as part of President Franklin Roosevelt’s New Deal to help ease hardships created by the Great Depression. The Cash family home is furnished as it was when Johnny was a boy.