They say that some trips carry the weight of destiny, a gravitational pull too strong to ignore. Nashville was that for me. I'd dreamt of this journey for as long as I could remember, drawn by the promise of a city where music doesn’t just live; it breathes. And here it finally was: our tickets in hand, my British passport ready, and my heart thumping with the thrill of getting there. But, as often happens on the road to dreams, the unexpected rose up and gave us a serious jolt right at the start.
My wife, Anne and I, arrived early at Pearson International airport in Toronto, on Thursday October 17th, giving ourselves that reassuring cushion of time, hoping to breeze through the usual checks. We were set for the music Mecca, the storied streets of Nashville, and I could almost hear the hum of guitars, see the glow of neon signs, feel that live-wire energy. Little did we know that our first hurdle would be the very right to board.
It happened quickly but felt like slow motion. “You’ll need an ESTA visa to enter the U.S.,” the WestJet ground crew informed me. The words hung in the air, dread creeping in. I’m a permanent resident of Canada, sure, but this detail — this bureaucratic oversight — was an unexpected punch in the gut. After all those months of meticulous planning, Nashville felt as far away as ever. The catch? This visa could take up to 72 hours to be approved. We only had four hours before the flight.
In my mind, the clock started ticking down the minutes — every one of them now a lifeline to my dream. We quickly explained our predicament to the check-in crew, who jumped into action like our personal champions, hopping onto phones and computers to help me apply. Anne and I, both filled with nervous energy, filled out form after form, clinging to a growing thread of hope. The crew’s support was a godsend; I’d never been so grateful for friendly faces who weren’t just doing their job — they were part of our story now, helping us fight to keep it alive.
Two tense hours crawled by, with no word from U.S. Homeland Security. I felt like a boxer on the ropes, praying for a comeback. We refreshed the webpage like it held our fate, each time seeing the same blank answer. Our boarding call grew closer, now just one hour away. And then — finally, finally — the magic words: approved. My visa had come through. I could have danced right there in the airport.
The WestJet crew, who had become our lifeline, rushed us through the next steps with care and precision. They knew what this trip meant, and it felt like they were just as invested in getting us there as we were. It was a communal relief, almost a shared victory, when we made it to the gate just in time to board.
As the plane soared above Toronto and we left Canada behind, the adrenaline finally began to settle, replaced by an overwhelming sense of gratitude. The trip I’d dreamed of, planned for, and hoped would be the musical journey of a lifetime was actually happening.
And as for Nashville itself? Well, that story is just beginning.
I want to thank Carol from the WestJet crew and her colleagues for making the trip possible with their above and beyond the call of duty attitude.
A Grand Arrival in Nashville and Meeting Musical Legends:
After our early-morning scramble and a fortunate ESTA approval, we were finally on our way, buoyed by the excitement of Nashville’s skyline as we flew south. It was a short flight but long on anticipation, and when we touched down around 5pm local time, the day’s early stress felt like a distant memory. Nashville — a place that had been high on my bucket list for as long as I can remember — was just beyond the airport doors, waiting for us to explore its storied streets, historic venues, and walls practically vibrating with music.
We headed straight for our loft apartment in Music Row, which we’d chosen for its ideal proximity to the heartbeat of Nashville’s scene. With quick cab ride chatter about the best places to eat and listen to live music, the driver’s enthusiasm was contagious. On arrival, we wasted no time; our bags barely touched the floor before we were out the door, on our way to the Commodore Grille. And who could blame us? This city doesn’t just call you to listen — it demands it.
The Commodore Grille was our first planned stop, where we were thrilled to catch Amanda Grace performing live, her music was introduced to us by Krista Vilinskis, the dynamo publicist at Elephants and Flowers Media. Krista had introduced us to Amanda’s work — a compelling blend of folk, Americana, and alt-rock — and it had been a privilege to cover her music on The Sound Cafe. Watching Amanda take the stage was a revelation. She carried herself with a calm, captivating energy, and her music, a soulful interplay of melody and storytelling, held the audience in a quiet reverence. As someone with roots in Minnesota, Amanda’s music embraces that Midwest heart, but with a voice that cuts through genres like water over stone, gently, purposefully, and unmistakably.
Anne Connor, Amanda Grace and Stevie Connor, Nashville.
Amanda’s sound is one that deserves every accolade it’s earned, and seeing her perform was an experience as warm as her vocals and as touching as her lyricism. Watch out for Amanda's brand new album which she will be touring to promote in 2025 !
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After the show, we were lucky enough to spend some time with Amanda, and the hang was everything you could wish for — laughter, shared stories, and that sense of camaraderie you only find among musicians who understand the journey, who walk a similar path. We chatted about her career highlights and the creative process behind Give Me Away, and she was kind enough to share a bit about her time working with some outstanding Midwest musicians.
Stevie and Clay.
As we were making our way out, our night took an unexpected, unforgettable turn. The Holiday Inn's resident personality, Clay (The Commodore Grille is situated within the hotel complex), approached us to see if we needed transport to get back to our accomodation, we struck up an interesting conversation of how he ended up in Nashville from Texas, he had a huge personality, and a warm and kind heart, a bit of our conversation revolved around it being our first time in Nashville, true to his word, he arranged for a free shuttle to take us back into the heart of Nashville, and strolled over with an offer too intriguing to refuse. He asked if we wanted to meet someone special, someone Nashville to the bone. With a quick nod, we found ourselves introduced to the legendary Rattlesnake Annie, a woman whose impact on country music crosses continents and cultures.
With the legend, Rattlesnake Annie.
Meeting Rattlesnake Annie was like stepping into a living history of American country music. Known for her trailblazing spirit, Rattlesnake Annie broke barriers across the music world. She wasn’t just a musician but a cultural ambassador who carried her music to places no American artist had gone before. As we listened, she shared stories about her early days, from winning a state talent contest that brought her to Nashville’s Junior Grand Ole Opry to being one of the first female country artists to tour behind the Iron Curtain in Eastern Europe. Her tales spanned decades and continents, a lifetime of stories layered with the authenticity that comes from living through them. Rattlesnake is the real deal—a musician who not only pioneered her own label, Rattlesnake Records, but who also fiercely preserved her independence and artistry in an industry that, at the time, didn’t know how to categorize her.
Over the years, her music had become deeply appreciated across Europe and Asia, and she told us about how her work with Sony Music Japan in the 1990s allowed her the freedom to create as she wanted. Her music, she explained, wasn’t limited by genre or trend; instead, she treated every song as a story in its own right, letting it be what it wanted to be. Listening to Rattlesnake talk about her career, with a twinkle of pride and humility in her eyes, was like hearing an entire history of music told through her singular voice. Her songs have been translated into over ten languages, and each one carries her signature style — genre-defying, resonant, and undeniably authentic.
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Our evening at the Commodore ended with a profound sense of gratitude. Meeting these remarkable artists, Amanda and Rattlesnake Annie, felt serendipitous, like the universe was weaving us into Nashville’s musical tapestry, if only for a few nights. And just as the city’s many musicians create a harmony greater than any one note, this night was a blend of personalities, stories, and talents, setting the stage for our unforgettable Nashville experience.
As we left, I couldn’t help but reflect on the intangible magic of this place. It’s a city that isn’t just about music but about the people who live and breathe it. Our first night had only just begun, yet we felt as though we’d already touched the heart of Nashville. And with each passing moment, the city promised to reveal even more.
Friday morning, we woke up in the heart of Nashville, enveloped by the character and charm of our Music City Loft. This grand two-bedroom felt like a fusion of vintage Nashville and modern artistry — exposed brick walls and hardwood floors gave the place an authentic warmth, and art from local artisans decorated every corner. There was a sense of history and creativity woven into the loft, as if the spirit of the city itself was built into the space.
The loft was perfect, offering the right mix of homey comfort and enough room to spread out. Music City Lofts is known for offering something special to visitors, and it delivered; we could easily see why it’s a favourite for solo travellers, couples, and larger groups alike. We didn’t need to go far for our Nashville fix — everything was within walking distance. Just a few blocks away was Broadway, the city’s famed “Honky Tonk Highway,” lined with live music spots, legendary honky tonks, and that Nashville energy that flows non-stop. Beyond that, there were all the icons of the city: the historic Ryman Auditorium, the Country Music Hall of Fame, and Printers Alley, with its mix of bars and hidden gems, and the Musicians Hall of Fame museum.
Staying in a place like this, privately owned and run with that unique local touch, felt like we were getting the best of both worlds — a peaceful, stylish retreat and the pulse of Nashville right outside our door. The loft was more than a stay; it was an experience, giving us the perfect base for our adventures around Music City.
Nashville’s Musicians Hall of Fame
Our visit to the Nashville Musicians Hall of Fame was nothing short of extraordinary. We spent three hours immersed in the rich history and vibrant stories of the musicians who shaped the sound of not just Nashville, but the entire music industry. Every exhibit was a treasure trove of memorabilia, from iconic instruments to personal artifacts that brought the legends to life.
The Hall of Fame celebrates a diverse array of genres, showcasing the talents of musicians who’ve played behind the scenes and those who’ve taken center stage. It was fascinating to see how countless artists — from session musicians to chart-topping stars — have contributed to the songs we know and love.
As we wandered through the displays, it became clear that we could have easily spent all day there, engrossed in the stories of artists who transformed the music landscape. Each corner held new surprises, from heartfelt tributes to the pioneers of country and rock to the innovative sounds that pushed boundaries.
What an incredible experience to honour the legacy of Nashville’s musicians and witness firsthand the impact they’ve made on the world of music!
After nearly three hours immersed in music history at the Musicians Hall of Fame, we made our way back toward 4th Avenue North. Our next stop was Morgan Wallen’s bar, a relatively new but wildly popular addition to the Nashville nightlife scene two blocks from the loft apartment, drawing fans of both country music and those simply looking for a unique, high-energy venue.
Nestled in the heart of downtown, Morgan Wallen’s bar captures the essence of Nashville’s electric nightlife with its rustic décor, neon signage, and multiple levels, each offering a distinct vibe. Exposed brick walls and vintage wood accents set the scene, while the stage took center focus, decked with a stunning array of lights and a state-of-the-art sound system. The place was buzzing with energy, and you could feel the anticipation for the night's performers.
The bar attracts an impressive lineup of emerging talent and seasoned musicians, each bringing their own flavor of country, Southern rock, and the occasional blues twist. Bands and solo artists often perform original hits and crowd-favorites, with guitar riffs and powerful vocals echoing through the open spaces. Wallen’s bar provides a platform for Nashville’s next big names, fostering a sense of community that’s unmistakably Music City.
Each level of the bar had something different to offer — whether it was the lively main floor with the central stage or the rooftop patio with a sweeping view of downtown. Patrons gathered at the bar, sipping specialty cocktails and craft beers while soaking up the energy that only Nashville can bring.
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A Lucky Encounter with Reagan Woodside
We were fortunate to stumble into Morgan Wallen's venue just as Reagan Woodside was taking the stage. We had no idea what to expect, but we certainly weren’t prepared for the awesomeness of his four-hour set! Yes, four hours! It was a testament to the incredible talent that Nashville has to offer, where wall-to-wall artistry is the norm.
Born and raised in Beaumont, Texas, Reagan’s journey to the stage is a remarkable one. His life took a dramatic turn when Hurricane Harvey devastated Southeast Texas, prompting him to leave his job at a refinery and find new purpose working on a ranch, helping to clean up the aftermath. During this challenging time, Reagan took his guitar on the road, singing for bar owners throughout Texas in hopes of landing acoustic gigs.
His talent and persistence paid off as he opened for renowned artists like Tracy Byrd, Mark Chesnutt, and Michael Martin Murphey. Eventually, he even secured a slot at the famous Nashville bar “Losers” inside the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. However, despite these achievements, he faced discouragement and returned to Southeast Texas to play smaller gigs, unsure of his path forward.
But destiny had other plans. While performing at Luke's Icehouse in Port Arthur, he met a girl who inspired him to consider moving to Nashville to pursue his dreams as an artist. Together, they took a leap of faith, buying a camper and moving into a trailer park in Nashville in 2020 amidst the pandemic.
Once in Nashville, Reagan wasted no time, seizing every opportunity that came his way. He played downtown and networked tirelessly, eventually joining a band called Blackout as a co-fronting member. For two years, he played gigs both in Nashville and on the road until the band parted ways, allowing him to pursue a solo career.
During this time, Reagan met his now-producer, Brandon Darcy, who recognized his potential and offered him a deal to become the first artist on his new label, Two Tone Music Group. Since then, they have been collaborating closely, writing and recording regularly to craft an original sound that reflects Reagan’s unique spirit and artistic vision.
Experiencing Reagan's set was a serendipitous moment that showcased not just his talent, but the essence of Nashville — a place where dreams are nurtured and the music flows endlessly. We left the venue inspired, grateful for the unexpected gem we discovered that night.
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New Friends and Celebrations
After an exhilarating day of music, we decided to head back to our loft apartment, just two blocks away. On the way, we stumbled upon an amazing independent liquor store and picked up a small bottle of Jack Daniels Honey. Given our involvement with the talented Andrea England's creation, "Four Chords and The Truth," in Toronto, which has been sponsored by Jack Daniels, it felt like the perfect way to celebrate our first full day in Music City.
The next day, Saturday, as we strolled along Broadway, we encountered a group of music lovers from Pittsburgh. They were genuinely interested in our Canadian roots and were thrilled to hear we were in Nashville to celebrate my 60th birthday. Yes, I know, I don’t look that old! We had a wonderful conversation, sharing stories and laughs, feeling the spirit of camaraderie that music often brings.
As fate would have it, we were destined to meet these friendly faces again before leaving for Canada, this time at none other than Morgan Wallen's bar on Sunday, the day we had to leave, where all the hip people gather.
Our new friends kindly offered to cover our drinks as a birthday surprise, wishing me a heartfelt happy birthday. Thank you so much, guys! It was a pleasure to meet you and your wives, creating memories that we’ll cherish for years to come. Big thanks to Tim Zimmerman (left) for giving me his card, great pleasure meeting you all, or should that be y'all !
Coming up on Sunday October 27th, follow Stevie and Anne Connor on their journey from Toronto to the Music City, Nashville.
In part 2 of this travelogue we head on a tour to the Ryman Auditorium — or as Nashvillians call it, The Church — and we also toured The Country Music Hall of Fame, before heading to Broadway for some amazing food and music... what a city !
Stevie Connor is a multifaceted force in the music world, renowned as a world-class piper, a musician, composer, recording artist, journalist, and internet radio pioneer.
In his early twenties, he pivoted from a promising career in professional football in Scotland to pursue his true passion: music. With a career spanning decades, Stevie has left an indelible mark on the music landscape, contributing his talents to over 30 albums across diverse genres including Folk, Celtic Rock, Jazz/Celtic/Rock Fusion and Pipe Band music. His compositions have been recorded by other artists including Wolfstone, Dougie Pincock (The Battlefield Band) and many more.
Over the years he has travelled the world performing in intimate venues such as bars and clubs, to bigger festival stages and in stadiums to thousands of people. Stevie has also performed live on radio in the UK and has appeared on TV in Japan the UK, Italy and Canada. He has also conducted numerous interviews to talk about his journey on radio and TV in Canada and the USA.
In 2012, Stevie co-founded multi award-winning Blues and Roots Radio along with his wife Anne, and partner Neil Mitchell (who is based in Melbourne, Australia), Blues & Roots Radio was an online platform dedicated to showcasing the best in Blues, Roots, Folk, Americana, and Celtic music. Through live shows, curated playlists, and engaging interviews, Blues and Roots Radio provided a global stage for both established acts and up-and-coming artists to share their artistry with the world.
In 2020, Stevie expanded his influence in the music industry by founding The Sound Cafe magazine. This online publication quickly gained traction as a vital platform for musicians, featuring in-depth artist interviews, insightful album reviews, and breaking music news. The magazine publishes in three languages, English, French and Spanish, and draws an average of between 70 to 80 thousand monthly readers.
Stevie Connor's remarkable journey from the football pitch in Scotland to the heart of the music industry in Canada, garnering awards and accolades from around the world along the way, is a testament to his unwavering commitment to his craft and his enduring love for music in all its forms. Stevie continues to leave an indelible legacy, shaping the future of music one note at a time.
His unwavering dedication to supporting grassroots talent has propelled The Sound Cafe to the forefront of music journalism, fostering a vibrant community of music enthusiasts and industry professionals alike.
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