NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — A Nashville landmark, Ernest Tubb Record Shop, is not closing along Broadway. The business is simply renovating its space for the next 10 months.
On Thursday, July 25, the iconic Ernest Tubb Record Shop sign was taken down, causing concern that the business was closing. However, Nashville sign legend Bobby Joslin will refurbish the sign in six weeks.
According to Ernest Tubb III, the shop will undergo renovations that will allow the use of all three floors in the building and allow it to meet current codes. Since opening, the business was only able to use the first floor.
Tubb posted on Facebook Thursday night about the future of his grandfather’s shop:
Exciting news! The Ernest Tubb Records Shop will remain a staple of lower Broadway. Preserving such a significant symbol of Country Music and Nashville’s roots has been the focal point from the very beginning.
Today the iconic Ernest Tubb Record shop sign was taken down in order to not only protect it but also to give it a proper restoration. We have partnered up with a great team, that not only respects and values the legacy of my Grandfather but is part of the music community.
They are committed to keeping the record shop at 417 Broadway. The remaining floors and square footage will have full utilization as well. This is a requirement due to the economic prosperity of downtown Nashville.
We are positioning the Ernest Tubb Legacy and History of countless musicians that have launched from this iconic establishment. From Patsy Cline to Elvis Presley the Records Shop
Has played an undeniable role in the birth and scale of Country Music for decades.
There will be more definitive information shared as we continue this journey but I ask that you continue to support the cause and celebrate this monumental project gaining momentum. I just want all to know that the best intentions are driving this forward and your support is very much appreciated.
Ernest Tubb III
The record shop has helped tremendously in the development of country music. In fact, several legendary artists have played at the store.
“I remember as a child, we’d go see the [Grand Ole] Opry and then come down here after the Opry was over, and they’d have a stage back at Ernest Tubb’s,” longtime shop visitor Rick Cagle said, adding that it’s great the building is being preserved since it’s part of history.
Other people on Broadway consider the Ernest Tubb Record Shop one of the last truly historic businesses on the street. They can’t wait for the store to reopen.