2024 was the first year we didn’t visit Nashville since we started going in 2021. We went several times in 2021, five times in 2022, and four times in 2023. Boy, do we miss it – the city, the people, and the memories. Nashville always felt like our home away from home. We’ve made quite a few friends there, and it’s a city that holds a special place in our hearts. In fact, The Chris & Sandy Show got started because of the connections we made who were in Nashville.
Because we had so many connections before we ever visited Nashville, I used to joke that we were probably one of the most connected couples to Nashville who had never visited. I made a lot of Facebook connections with people in Nashville long before we ever made that first trip.
I’ll never forget our first trip there in April 2021. It felt like the start of something new. As soon as we arrived, we headed straight to our hotel to check in. After dropping off our bags, we hopped in the car and started driving around, soaking in the vibe of the city. That evening, we decided to head downtown and experience the famous Broadway strip that so many people rave about.
Since this was our first visit, everything felt like an adventure.
We found ourselves standing at the intersection in front of Honky Tonk Central just a few minutes after arriving downtown. Out of nowhere, someone from the bar ran out and handed Lil Chris a drumstick. They told us it was from the drummer inside. How cool is that? It felt like Nashville was welcoming us with open arms.
That was just the beginning. We crossed the street and found ourselves in front of Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row, listening to the live music pouring out of the open windows. If you’ve never been to Broadway, one of the best things about it is how the bars open their windows, letting the music spill into the streets. You can stand on the sidewalk and feel like you’re part of the performance.
As we stood there enjoying the band, something unexpected happened. The singer noticed the drumstick in Lil Chris’ hand. She leaned out the window and asked him if he wanted to come inside and play drums with their drummer. Without hesitation, he said yes! He was only nine years old at the time, but that moment felt huge.
The next thing I knew, the singer was helping him climb through the window, and I followed right behind to capture it all on video. Little Chris stood by the drummer, who showed him what to do, and together they performed “Summer of ’69.” I still smile thinking about it. That experience left a mark on him. Even now, as he approaches 13, he still talks about that night. And that wouldn’t be the last time he was on stage in the same manner.
That first night in Nashville with Lil Chris felt like a scene straight out of a movie—electric, unforgettable, and completely unscripted. It was the kind of experience you can’t plan, but one that stays with you forever.
Another night, we parked across the river where we discovered free parking – a nice little tip if there’s nothing happening at the stadium. Crossing the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge was an experience in itself, with breathtaking views of the Nashville skyline. That bridge became one of our favorite spots, and I even had my 50th birthday photos taken there. If you ever find yourself in Nashville, walking that bridge is a must. As you reach the bottom of the bridge and start walking toward Broadway, you’ll feel the energy of the city begin to build.
That first trip set the tone for all the visits that followed. We returned later in 2021, and each time we went back, Nashville felt like it was giving us another memory to cherish. There’s just something about the city. It has this unique blend of big-city excitement with a small-town feel.
There is just some kind of charm there. Watching all the singers and songwriters chasing their dreams is magical. The people we’ve met have been incredible, and while we know every city has its flaws, what we’ve experienced in Nashville has been nothing short of magical. There’s a raw authenticity to the city – a sense of hope and ambition that fills the air. It’s inspiring to witness firsthand.
For us, Nashville isn’t just another place to visit; it’s part of our story. And while we didn’t make it there in 2024, I know it won’t be long before we find ourselves walking down Broadway again, letting the music guide our steps. We’re already planning one or two trips for 2025, and the thought of being back fills us with excitement. Nashville isn’t just a destination – it’s a piece of our hearts waiting to be rediscovered. If you’ve never been, do yourself a favor and go. Nashville has a way of staying with you long after you leave.
Chris & Sandy
The Chris & Sandy Show
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