Nashvegas

The stay in Nashville was a short 1.5 days, next time I’ll stay for a week. I had no idea what to expect; it was an overwhelming surprise, rich with music and partying. Immediately upon arrival there was a good feeling about the place. People’s attitudes were much friendlier than New Orleans. 

Before my arrival, a friend from Nashville had messaged me, saying “welcome to Nashvegas” I didn't realise what she meant until I saw the main drag in downtown Nashville - like a festival in a city, chaotic and fun. Music music everywhere, the whole place rife with guitars - from the airport to the hostel, you’re never far from a guitar in Nashville. This place is waaaay cooler than Vegas. 

People were super friendly, similar to the folk in Milwaukee. This was the only city I’d visited so far where you’d seldom smell weed, it appeared to be more of a drinking town. Scores of cops were out on the streets, their nice energy reminded me of the police at Glastonbury - friendly and enjoying the atmosphere while helping anyone who’s a bit too wasted.  

Note: No police helped me during this stay! Despite all the drinking and rowdiness, there was no trouble at all. Young people from all over the US come here to party and enjoy the rich variety of music. 

Nearly every bar had live music, many had several floors - each with different bands, some with DJ’s on the roof gardens.  

This band was great fun - The Corey Mac Show..  

..they played covers as well as their own songs. So nice to see how crazy Americans go when ‘The Fresh Prince’ is played :) 

They also did an excellent cover of Uptown Funk, where they casually sprinkled in a mashup of: Zapp & Roger - More Bounce to the Ounce; Daft Punk - Harder Better Faster Stronger, and Salt ‘n’ Pepper’s Push It. Gotta love some funk once in a while! 

I fell in love with ‘More bounce to the ounce’ years ago, from the 1995 French film ‘La Haine’....

Next stop: Memphis