Nashville is near and dear to me because it is so close to my hometown in Tennessee and so many of my close friends live in the Nashville area. In the early hours of March 3, 2020 an EF3 tornado plowed through the outskirts of Nashville leaving devastation in its path. The tornado took dozens of lives and injured almost 200 people. On March 9, I visited the city to cover a benefit for tornado victims called To Nashville With Love at Marathon Music Works. I drove thru the areas of East Nashville and it brought be to tears to see the damage so close to my friend’s homes.
Just two weeks after the tornado the city started to deal with a new threat called COVID-19 that ultimately shutdown the city and stopped efforts to re-build the city after the tornados. It was like a one-two punch for Music City. As weeks have passed many people have done what they do best in Tennessee with neighbors helping neighbors. There is a reason it is called the Volunteer State.
On my way to New Orleans last week I drove back into Nashville on May 1 and I was very happy to see construction happening again with re-building efforts. I was especially overjoyed to see construction at the Basement East, one of Nashville’s most iconic music venues.
I have faith and I know this city will prevail and the live music will be back soon!
If you would like to help support the Nashville community affected by the tornado, donations are still being accepted at ToNashvilleWithLove.org.