Nashville’s Exit/In to Shutter Doors After Over Half a Century
Today, the iconic Nashville, Tenn., venue Exit/In shared that on Thanksgiving, they will close. The current stalwarts of the venue shared through on social media that 51 years of independent ownership and operation–for which they’ve handled in 18 years–under the name of Exit/In is coming to an end due to their lease concluding at the end of the year.
They wrote in the post, “We don’t have a clear picture of what the future holds for Exit/In. We do know there is a historic overlay on the building (and the Exit/In building only). The exact effect of this zoning is dependent on the Historic Commission, but it should prevent complete destruction of the building. This Zoning can be changed, like any other local zoning. You can thank yourselves and public pressure for this historic zoning protection.”
They went on to thank the thousands who donated to keep the venue independent via GoFundMe donations, writing that “the number of donations and outcry of support gives up hope for the future and has allowed us to continue fighting.” The donations will now go to National Independent Venue Alliance and Music Venue Alliance Nashville.
While Exit/In will close on Thanksgiving, Hurry Back will remain open through the end of the year. Over the years, the venue has hosted Willie Nelson, Muddy Waters, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, John Prine, Jerry Lee Lewis, Johnny Cash, The Ramones, Tom Waits and many, many more.
Read the full announcement below.
