All Over The Map Destinations, JOurneys, and Diversions
Bristol, TN-VA
Sound Effects
by Chris Gigley
Nashville may be the capital of country music, but the genre’s roots lie more than 250 miles to the east in the small town of Bristol on the Tennessee-Virginia border. That’s where, in 1927, an enterprising businessman from New Jersey and a wealth of talented bluegrass musicians came together to lay the foundation for the modern country-music industry. Here’s where to get in tune with the city’s legacy.
State Street
Downtown Bristol’s main thorough-fare, which marks the state line, is also home to bars and restaurants that host live bluegrass and country music. A monument on this street marks the site of the historic Bristol Sessions, often called the “big bang of country music.” The recording sessions held by record producer Ralph Peer helped launch the careers of Jimmie Rodgers and the Carter Family, who are widely recognized as the first commercially successful modern country music artists. Audio tours are available at the Bristol Convention and Visitors Bureau.
20 Volunteer Pkwy., Bristol, Tennessee
423.989.4850
bristolchamber.org
Ernie Ford House
The modest birthplace of gospel crooner Tennessee Ernie Ford is a stark contrast to his celebrity status. The living room and bathroom are decorated as they were when Ford was born in 1919, and another room honors the local country-music heritage. But the most striking exhibit is the house itself, a testament to Ford’s humble roots on his way to becoming a household name by the 1950s. Tours are available by appointment only.
1223 Anderson St., Bristol, Tennessee
423.989.4850
Burger Bar
This authentic diner serves up intrigue along with burgers and fries. While questions still surround the death of Hank Williams, many Bristol residents insist the Burger Bar was the last place the singer was seen alive. Whatever the truth, it’s worth stopping in for the restaurant’s signature sandwich, a chiliburger named “Howlin’ at the Moon,” an homage to Williams’ 1951 hit song.
8 Piedmont Ave., Bristol, Virginia
276.466.6200
Classic Recording Studio
Kenny Chesney (who hails from nearby Knoxville) recorded his first demo here. Bluegrass artists Ralph Stanley and Doc Watson have also recorded here. Now the studio hosts country, blue-grass, gospel, rock, jazz, and hip-hop bands. It’s closed to the public, but music lovers often photograph its iconic sign from the street.
13 Moore St., Bristol, Virginia
276.466.8675
classicrecordingstudio.com
