Nashville

Nashville is the capital and most populous city of the state of Tennessee, United States. It sits on the Cumberland River in Middle Tennessee and is known worldwide as Music City for its historic ties to the country music industry. The city is the core of a metropolitan area that extends into several counties and hosts a diversified economy centered on music, healthcare, education, and tourism. As of the 2020 census, the city proper had about 700,000 residents, with the Nashville metropolitan area home to roughly 1.9 million people.

Founded in 1779 by James Robertson and John Donelson, Nashville was named after General Francis Nash. It became the state capital in 1843. During the 19th and 20th centuries, Nashville developed as a transportation hub and cultural center, with the Ryman Auditorium becoming a premier venue and the Grand Ole Opry establishing itself as a national stage for country music. The mid-20th century saw growth in the music industry that would earn the city its nickname.

Today Nashville hosts a large cluster of music industry offices on Music Row and is home to many recording studios, orchestras, and arts organizations. Higher education and healthcare are significant sectors, anchored by Vanderbilt University and Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Belmont University, and Tennessee State University, along with major hospitals and research centers. Tourism draws visitors to venues such as the Grand Ole Opry, the Country Music Hall of Fame, and the Ryman Auditorium, as well as downtown's Broadway entertainment district and Centennial Park’s Parthenon replica.

Nashville features diverse neighborhoods, a growing skyline, and a riverfront park system. The city is served by Nashville International Airport and a network of interstates including I-40, I-65, and I-24. Cultural events include the annual CMA Fest and numerous music, arts, and sports activities. Sports teams include the NHL's Nashville Predators and the NFL's Tennessee Titans, who play in the metro area.