Where Can You Hear Free Live Music in Nashville?

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For free live music, start on Lower Broadway, where the honky-tonks run live bands through the day. Robert’s Western World at 416-B Broadway says it prides itself “on NEVER charging an entry fee” and asks only that you tip the band and servers (Robert’s Western World). Entry rules at other bars are set by each bar, and special events can charge, so check the door. For songwriters, the Bluebird Cafe’s Monday 6:00 p.m. Open Mic is first come, first served with no food or beverage minimum (Bluebird FAQ). Outdoors, Musicians Corner in Centennial Park runs a free concert series each spring and fall (Musicians Corner).

Free and Nearly Free Options

Where What Cost
Robert's Western World, 416-B Broadway honky-tonk bands; all ages until 6 p.m., then 21 and up no entry fee; tips welcome
Other Lower Broadway honky-tonks live bands through the day set by each bar; special events can charge
Bluebird Cafe Monday Open Mic, 6:00 p.m. up-and-coming songwriters ticketing per the Bluebird's site; no food or drink minimum
Musicians Corner, Centennial Park outdoor concerts each spring and fall free

Sources: Robert’s Western World FAQ; Bluebird FAQ; Musicians Corner.

Making It a Free Music Day

  1. Start on Broadway early, while bars are all ages; Robert’s lets in all ages until 6 p.m.
  2. Bring cash for tips; Robert’s asks guests to take good care of its entertainment and servers.
  3. Check the season: Musicians Corner runs in spring and fall, and its schedule is on its site.
  4. Monday night: queue for the Bluebird Open Mic; how its lines work is in how to get into the Bluebird Cafe.

What it costs to walk into a bar is in whether Broadway is free to enter.

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