While you won’t hear the sounds of spinning vinyl reverberating through the walls of 417 Broadway quite yet, you’re likely to hear the whine of drills and the pounding of hammers, as construction is well underway to prepare the Ernest Tubb Record Shop for the next chapter in its storied history. Back in the day, only the first floor of the 175-year-old brick building housed the record shop, but now we’ve begun restoring all 13,000 sq. ft. of this iconic landmark. This effort is not only about preserving the historic shop, but also about ensuring these hallowed halls once again come alive with the sweet melodies of Nashville music.

The design process for the five-story space is still in progress, but it won’t be long until we fire up the fiddles and fenders, drop the needle on the records, and open the doors for a good ol’ fashioned celebration of a Nashville legend and the godfather of country and western music, Ernest Tubb.

If you’ve walked past the shop lately, you might have noticed something’s missing. Our iconic sign—a beacon of Lower Broadway and country music history—has been temporarily removed for much-needed restoration. 

Cracked panels, broken bulbs, and a motor that hasn’t rotated in years have taken their toll, while rusted metal and an outdated mounting system raised safety concerns, making this restoration a must. After decades of wear, it’s time to bring this landmark back to its original glory.

Our team is carefully repairing its structure and giving it the TLC it deserves. The sign will return with vibrant paint, gleaming bulbs, and restored neon to light up Broadway again. We’re keeping its soul intact while ensuring it shines for future generations of country music fans.

The Ernest Tubb Record Shop isn’t going anywhere. A group of Nashville musicians, alongside Ernest Tubb’s family, has come together to preserve its legacy and ensure it remains a cornerstone of Broadway. We’re keeping the name Ernest Tubb Record Shop and celebrating everything it stands for—E.T.’s immense impact on country music, the iconic Midnite Jamboree, and the rich connection to our local community.

This isn’t just about saving a name; it’s about preserving the soul of a place that’s meant so much to so many. The shop will continue to be the go-to spot for country records and an authentic Nashville experience on Broadway. And soon, live performances will return, bringing back the energy and intimacy of the Midnite Jamboree that made Saturday nights unforgettable.

Stick around as we take you backstage and share the stories of bringing this icon back into its heyday.