Though Nashville's fortunes aren't exclusively those of the country music industry, the city is inextricably linked to its music. These days country music is enjoying greater popularity than ever before (it's now a $2-billion-a-year industry), bringing newfound importance to this city. On any given night of the week in The District, you can hear live music in two dozen clubs and bars -- and not all of the music is country music. There are blues bars, jazz clubs, alternative-rock clubs, even Irish pubs showcasing Celtic music.
Nashville also has its share of shopping malls, theme restaurants, stadiums, and arenas, but it is music that drives this city. Nashville should be able to attract not only fans of country music but just about anyone who enjoys a night on the town. With all the new developments taking place around Nashville, it is obvious that Nashville is a city ascendant, rising both as a city of the New South and as Music City USA.
