RCA Studio B
Get a sense of the history and intricacies of the Nashville Sound in this iconic recording studio that has launched the careers of many great performers.
The RCA Studio B Tour is a museum housed in the recording hall used by famous stars such as Elvis Presley, Dolly Parton and The Everly Brothers. As part of the Country Music Hall of Fame, the studio offers tours of the rooms where some of the biggest hits in music history came to be. Before you enter, spot the enormous novelty electric guitar with Roy Orbison’s name on the frets.
Inside the studio immerse yourself in the 1970s themes and period décor. Chat with the docents and hear the stories behind recordings made by Willie Nelson, Chet Atkins and many other country music stars. The museum has a list of the important records made here, including The Everly Brothers’ All I Have to Do Is Dream, Elvis Presley’s It’s Now or Never and Dolly Parton’s Jolene.
Learn the history of this building, which was constructed in 1957, before becoming known as the birthplace of the Nashville Sound. Today, it is also used as a classroom for high school students learning about sound production and technology. The Nashville number system, a method for abbreviating song notation, was invented here.
Browse the array of intriguing items for sale in the museum shop, where you’ll find all types of clothing, posters and memorabilia with a musical theme. Consider renting this historic venue for a wedding or other special occasion.
Tours start hourly from late morning until mid-afternoon every day of the week. Make a reservation in advance to ensure you get a place. The museum offers a variety of tour packages at different prices.
The RCA Studio B Tour is in the Music Row area, a little southwest of the historic center of Nashville. Ride a bus to one of the stops in the area and walk to the museum. Visit nearby attractions, such as Vanderbilt University, the Parthenon and the Frist Center for the Visual Arts.