Historic SiteNashville, TN
Ernest Tubb Record Shop
Historic Lower Broadway record shop where Ernest Tubb hosted the legendary Midnite Jamboree after Saturday-night Grand Ole Opry shows.
Why it matters
After the Grand Ole Opry ended on Saturday nights, the music continued here—where Ernest Tubb turned a record shop into a late-night stage for country legends and artists still waiting for their break.
The story
Look up on Lower Broadway, and the old sign tells you exactly what happened here: MID-NITE JAMBOREE — with Top Opry Stars.
Ernest Tubb opened his record shop in 1947, but this became more than a place to buy country records. On Saturday nights, when the Grand Ole Opry finished, the night could continue here.
The Midnite Jamboree aired after the Opry, bringing musicians and fans together for a live radio show. Country stars who had just played to an Opry crowd could show up alongside young performers still trying to get noticed. Tubb understood what an opportunity like that could mean, and he became known for giving new artists a chance.
For decades, that created a distinctly Nashville ritual: see the Opry, head downtown, find the record shop beneath the glowing guitar, and keep listening.
Lower Broadway looks very different today. The street is brighter, louder, and filled with enormous venues. It's easy to walk past this building without realizing that late-night live music drew people here generations ago. But the old neon guitar and Jamboree sign still tell the story.
Long before Broadway became Nashville's all-night party, people came to this spot because they weren't ready for the music to end.
While you’re here
Located directly on Lower Broadway. Parking nearby can be difficult and expensive, especially at night, on weekends, and during downtown events. A downtown garage and a short walk are usually easier than looking for street parking. Broadway is extremely busy and can be loud and crowded, particularly in the evenings. Visit earlier in the day if you want more time to take in the building and its history.
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