There’s a reason they call Nashville “Music City.” It’s not just the birthplace of country music—it’s a global hub for songwriters, live performers, and music lovers chasing a dream. If you’re a songwriter or artist looking for performing opportunities in Nashville, you’ve come to the right place.

From intimate writers’ rounds to bustling honky-tonks and legendary stages, the city offers more than just exposure—it offers connection, collaboration, and career-defining moments.

This page explores where and how to perform in Nashville, whether you’re just starting out or ready to take your setlist to the next level.



🎸 1. Writers Rounds: Nashville’s Signature Stage Format

The writers round is the soul of the Nashville performance scene. It’s a unique format where three to four songwriters sit in a circle, taking turns playing their original songs and sharing the stories behind them.

Top venues for writers rounds:
• The Bluebird Cafe – Iconic and intimate. Getting booked here is a badge of honor.
• The Listening Room Cafe – Combines great acoustics with pro-level talent.
• Commodore Grille – Friendly to newcomers and seasoned pros alike.
• Douglas Corner Cafe (legacy venue – still inspires format across the city)

How to book a writers round:
• Build a set of strong, original songs.
• Attend rounds and network with performers.
• Reach out to round hosts or sign-up via venue websites.
• Be ready to perform acoustic, with tight lyrics and story-driven songs.

Writers rounds are less about flashy performance and more about raw songwriting talent. It’s where deals start, friendships form, and publishers take notice.



🍻 2. Open Mics: Find Your Voice, Find Your Crowd

Nashville’s open mic scene is vibrant, inclusive, and surprisingly competitive. It’s not just for beginners—it’s where new talent gets discovered.

Popular open mic spots:
• Belcourt Taps
• Cafe Coco
• Millennium Maxwell House (for country-focused rounds)
• Douglas Corner (if reopened)

Most open mics offer walk-in slots, but the best ones fill fast. Show up early, bring your A-game, and stick around to support other artists. This community-first mindset opens doors.



🤘 3. Broadway & Honky-Tonk Gigs: High-Energy, High-Exposure

Nashville’s famous Lower Broadway is lined with bars, clubs, and stages running live music from 10 a.m. to 3 a.m.—every single day. These high-volume gigs are competitive and typically booked through managers or bandleaders.

Notable venues:
• Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge
• Honky Tonk Central
• The Stage on Broadway
• Ole Red

If you’re a strong vocalist or instrumentalist (especially guitar, fiddle, or keys), you can land a spot in a house band. These gigs are demanding—four-hour sets, constant requests—but they pay, build stamina, and put you in front of thousands.



🎶 4. Booking Tips for Nashville Gigs

1. Showcase professionalism. Have a solid EPK (electronic press kit), links to live videos, and a short, clean bio.

2. Know your set. Whether it’s originals or covers, curate a tight, confident setlist. Nashville audiences love authenticity but also expect tight musicianship.

3. Network after dark. Many gigs and rounds are booked over drinks, not emails. Attend events, stick around after sets, and introduce yourself with intention.

4. Follow up. Bookers appreciate musicians who follow up with a thank-you and links to recent work.



🏆 5. Industry Showcases & Audition Opportunities

Ready for the big leagues? Nashville hosts many industry showcases and audition opportunities:
• NSAI (Nashville Songwriters Association International) offers workshops and performance nights.
• The Country Music Hall of Fame’s “Songwriter Sessions” are curated but career-changing.
• Belmont University and MTSU often post audition notices open to the public.
• CMA Fest, Tin Pan South, and AmericanaFest all include performer submissions.

While competitive, these showcases can connect you to publishers, labels, PROs, and sync opportunities.



🌍 6. Virtual & Hybrid Stages

Post-2020, many venues now stream their performances. Don’t underestimate hybrid events:
• Live-streaming your set from a Nashville venue boosts your reach.
• Some songwriter nights now take remote submissions for virtual slots.
• Collaborate with co-writers online and showcase your songs digitally before bringing them to town.



🎯 Final Thoughts: Don’t Wait for Permission—Play

Nashville is wide open to those who show up, shut up, and play. It’s not about chasing fame—it’s about chasing connection through craft. Every open mic, round, and gig is a chance to learn, grow, and be heard.

Show up consistently. Be gracious. Write great songs. And whether you’re at The Bluebird or a dive bar down the road, remember: every hit started on a small stage.