Tootsie’s as We Know it Today
Tootsie's World Famous Orchid Lounge is a bustling, must-see destination in Nashville for both locals and tourists.
Though Tootsie's Orchid Lounge became a staple of downtown Nashville, it faced difficult times in the 1970s. When the Grand Ole Opry moved to the Opryland Complex in 1974, the honky tonk's popularity dwindled. By the time Tootsie Bess passed away in 1978, the entire Broadway strip had fallen into urban decay.
By the 1990s, Broadway had fallen into decline, and Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge was no exception. The once-thriving honky-tonk, beloved by many, was struggling. Businesses along the strip were boarded up, foot traffic had dwindled, and Tootsie Bess had passed away over a decade earlier, leaving the bar in danger of closing. In 1997, Smith purchased the bar and all its rights, breathing new life into the historic site through hard work and dedication.
“When we bought it, there was just a 200-watt light bulb hanging in the middle of the room,” Steve Smith recalled. “You could smell the bathrooms from the street, and they were making only about $500 a day. Homeless people were sleeping in the backroom on mattresses and cots.”
“Every artist that comes there and hangs out at Tootsie’s, it becomes their spot. They’ve always made it happen like that. They’ve always supported that little purple building, and it all started with Tootsie Bess taking care of the artists.”
Smith, who had known Tootsie’s grandson since childhood, officially purchased the bar in 1992 and immediately set out to restore it. They introduced $2 tokens at the door, which patrons could either keep as souvenirs or use to buy drinks. Over time, they added a third floor and a rooftop patio to the building. By 2014, business had grown, and today, Tootsie’s is alive with energy, packed every night with crowds enjoying live music and the hopes of spotting a famous musician that happens to just pop in!
Staying true to its legacy, Tootsie’s continues to draw in aspiring musicians eager to make their mark. In recent years, country stars like Chase Rice, Jake Owen, and Brad Paisley have graced its stage. Several rising artists who performed at Tootsie’s have even gone on to appear on shows like American Idol and The Voice. Smith remains thankful for the musicians who still consider Tootsie’s their home.
Today, Tootsie's World Famous Orchid Lounge is a bustling, must-see destination in Nashville for both locals and tourists. The honky tonk is packed nightly, with live bands performing across three levels, including a recently added rooftop patio. Tootsie's continues to welcome aspiring artists, offering them the chance to make their mark and earn a spot on the famous Tootsie's Wall of Fame.
“You’ve just got to keep reinventing it. Every time new artists come in and hang out, it becomes something fresh again for the younger crowd.”
Tootsie’s Annual Birthday Bash!
Join us at Tootsie's Annual Birthday Bash! This exciting event celebrates another year of Tootsie's Famous Orchid Lounge and is open to everyone, completely free of charge.
Mark your calendars for an unforgettable day filled with live music, entertainment, and a vibrant atmosphere right on Broadway. From seasoned artists to emerging talents, our stage will showcase a lineup that embodies the spirit of Nashville.
The festivities kick off with food trucks offering a variety of delicious options to satisfy your cravings. Don’t miss out on the chance to mingle with fellow music lovers and soaking in the rich history that surrounds Tootsie's.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this is an event that brings the community together to celebrate the legacy and joy of country music. Come one, come all — it's a party you won't want to miss!
