Country music fans in Nashville have reason to celebrate as the iconic Ernest Tubb Record Shop officially reopened its doors on October 13, 2025, after a three-year hiatus filled with uncertainty and renovations. Located at its original address of 417 Broadway, the shop now blends its storied legacy with contemporary amenities, including two bars, live music stages, and a rooftop honky tonk set to open soon. This revival not only preserves a cornerstone of Music City’s heritage but also adapts it to the vibrant, bustling energy of downtown Nashville’s entertainment scene.
A Storied History Rooted in Country Music
The Ernest Tubb Record Shop has been a Nashville staple since its opening in 1951, named after the legendary country singer Ernest Tubb, known as the “Texas Troubadour.” For over 70 years, it served as more than just a retail space—it was a cultural hub where fans could browse vinyl records, purchase merchandise, and even catch live performances in the back room. The shop hosted the Midnite Jamboree, a long-running radio program launched by Tubb himself, and was a go-to spot for discovering classic country tunes. Its neon guitar-shaped sign became an enduring symbol of Broadway’s honky-tonk heritage, drawing in both locals and tourists.
From Closure to Rebirth: The Road to Reopening
The shop’s future seemed uncertain when it announced its closure in 2022, following the sale of both the building and the business. This news sparked outrage among fans, with Tubb’s nephew launching a petition to save the 72-year-old institution amid fears it would be lost to modern development. In 2023, hope was restored when a group of investors—including Nashville real estate developer Brad Bars, musician Ilya Toshinskiy, local attorney Grover Collins, and Dale Tubb, Ernest’s grandson—purchased the property for $18.3 million. Bars assured the public that the record shop would remain, with major renovations planned to modernize the space while honoring its roots.
The iconic sign was temporarily removed during the overhaul, but it has now been fully restored and reinstalled, lighting up Broadway once more. The project was overseen by Tusk Brothers, a management company co-owned by brothers Jamie and Bryan Kenney, along with Toshinskiy and Dale Tubb. After months of work, the shop reopened on October 13, 2025, to much fanfare.
New Features: Bars, Stages, and a Rooftop Honky Tonk
The revamped Ernest Tubb Record Shop is no longer just a record store—it’s a multi-level entertainment venue designed to appeal to both nostalgia seekers and modern visitors. The ground floor features two bars, each equipped with a stage for live music, alongside displays of authentic and never-before-seen memorabilia from country music’s golden era. The second floor houses the recreated record shop, offering vinyl records and merchandise, with a back area for intimate performances reminiscent of the original setup.
The third floor is dedicated to private events, while the rooftop honky tonk bar—expected to open in the coming weeks—promises panoramic views of downtown Nashville, making it a must-visit spot on Broadway. Adding to the experience is a full menu of classic bar fare, including burgers, hot dogs, chili cheese fries, and snacks. In total, the venue boasts three bars across the first and second floors, ensuring plenty of spots to grab a drink while soaking in the atmosphere.
As the shop’s social media post poetically put it: “That glow you see? It’s a little bit honky tonk and a whole lotta heart. Ernest Tubb Record Shop is home again.”
Public Reactions and the Broader Impact
The reopening has elicited a mix of excitement and nostalgia from the country music community. Many fans, relieved after the 2022 scare, have praised the preservation of the shop’s essence, with one commentator noting, “Ernest would be proud of what they’ve done with the place.” A tour by The Nashville Experience described the interior as “amazingly different…but it looks amazing nonetheless.” However, some critics on social media have expressed concerns that the additions make it resemble “every other obnoxious honky tonk” on Broadway, potentially diluting its unique historical charm.
This revival underscores Nashville’s ongoing evolution, where historic sites like the Ernest Tubb Record Shop are adapting to attract new generations while honoring the past. As downtown continues to boom with bars and live music venues, the shop’s return ensures that the spirit of classic country remains alive and well on Broadway. Whether you’re hunting for rare vinyl or enjoying a cold beer with rooftop views, the Ernest Tubb Record Shop is once again a destination for music lovers.
