Ryman Auditorium has hosted iconic figures across its 130-plus years of history ranging from Elvis Presley to Ringo Starr to Taylor Swift. Also known as the “Mother Church of Country Music”, the Ryman is one of the most well-known performance venues in music and is a founding piece in the story of Music City. Whether it’s for a concert or a tour, this is one Nashville landmark you need to experience in person.

EXPLORE THE HISTORY

A Captain's Calling

In the early 1800s, riverboat captain Thomas G. Ryman attended a tent revival led by charismatic evangelist Sam Jones. Inspiration struck, and Ryman felt called to dedicate his fortune to building a church in the city. It was named the Union Gospel Tabernacle, and it opened its doors in 1892. The church hosted services by Jones and other preachers, as well as lectures and community events. When Ryman died in 1904, the church was renamed Ryman Auditorium in his honor.

The Carnegie of the South

Since the beginning, music has been a part of the Ryman's very foundation. In fact, once it opened, the church hosted a concert even before Rev. Sam Jones’ first sermon! At the time, Ryman Auditorium was the largest structure of its kind in the city, so it quickly became the host of many gatherings. Some of its earliest performers included Marian Anderson, Mae West, and Harry Houdini. Many of the building’s original features, such as the wooden church pews, still exist today contributing to its renowned reputation of legendary acoustics.

A Key Player in Civil Rights

The Ryman has played a significant role in the Civil Rights movement over the years, following its tradition of welcoming powerful artists, activists, speakers, and entertainers. Some of these important figures include Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Jackie Robinson, Michelle Obama, Louis Armstrong, Linda Martell, Wu-Tang Clan, the Fisk Jubilee Singers, and former vice president Kamala Harris.

The Opry's Most Famous Former Home

The Ryman was the fifth home of the Grand Ole Opry, a live radio show which debuted in 1925 but wouldn’t take up residence at the Ryman until 1943. The Ryman hosted the Grand Ole Opry for more than 30 years and featured performers including Johnny Cash, Minnie Pearl, Hank Williams, and Patsy Cline. Although it has long since left the Ryman, the Grand Ole Opry still returns to its former home every year with ongoing annual performances. The Opry continues in its own star-studded legacy just like the Ryman, its currently celebrating over 100 years of ongoing Opry history with a lineup of new shows every week.

DISCOVER FAMOUS MOMENTS AND STARS

The Birthplace of Bluegrass

In 1945, a performance by Bill Monroe and his Blue Grass Boys introduced a whole new musical genre to a large audience for the first time. With Monroe on mandolin, Earl Scruggs on banjo, Howard Watts playing bass, Lester Flatt on guitar, and Chubby Wise playing fiddle, the band defined what would become the traditional Bluegrass sound, and audiences couldn’t get enough. The Ryman remains a symbol of bluegrass music, continuing the tradition and celebrating the legacy of this classic American genre in the modern age.

Notable Performers

Countless artists spanning every genre have graced the Ryman stage through the years. From Elvis Presley, Ringo Starr, Loretta Lynn, and Dolly Parton to Harry Styles, Lizzo, Ed Sheeran, and Taylor Swift, Ryman has hosted top-name acts. Artists often describe the experience as something spiritual, offering an intimate connection with the fans along with otherworldly acoustics.

Johnny and June Meet Backstage

With more than 130 years of musical performances, the Ryman has seen many significant moments in music history—like when June Carter of the Carter Family met Johnny Cash. The pair met backstage in 1968, and 12 years later they were married.

TOUR THE RYMAN

So, why is Ryman Auditorium so famous? With over 130 years of ongoing music history, it’s a defining landmark in Nashville’s story as Music City. Experience it in person on a tour. Explore the venue, take in the stories, get up close to artifacts and memorabilia from years of legendary performances, and even stand on the iconic stage. 

Book your tour today and experience the soul of Nashville.