I had the distinct pleasure of spending some time in Nashville a month ago on a dual work and personal trip. The city is literally made for me (for all the reasons you can imagine) and one of the highlights was two days spent at the Ryman Theatre. I went on a tour of the fabled Mother Church during the day and then caught a live show that night, and to say it was an incredible experience would probably be an understatement. You can feel the history in the floorboards with every step you take, the echoes of legend’s boots mirroring yours up and down the halls. But what many people don’t realize is that the Ryman was basically a shithole from 1973 until the early 90’s. The whole building had fallen into a state of massive disrepair once the Grand Ole Opry left to its new home and there were plans to tear it down and build anew for a good part of a two decade span.
Enter Emmylou Harris and her 1992 live album At the Ryman. This very album played a pivotal role in revitalizing Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium. Recognizing its legendary acoustics and cultural significance (and sensing that a demolition of the building was imminent), Harris chose the Ryman to record her live album with the Nash Ramblers. They performed three concerts (the building’s first public shows in over 20 years) despite structural issues that limited audiences to around 200 people per night. The album was a smash hit which renewed interest in the auditorium’s preservation, and led to a comprehensive renovation which restored the Ryman to its former glory.
Without At the Ryman, I wouldn’t have had the experience I did in Nashville. So thanks Emmylou. Owe you a beer next time I’m in town.
Standout Songs: “Half As Much”, “Mansion on the Hill”, “Rollin’ and Ramblin’”
