Live concerts return to well-known Music City venue

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — As Nashville moved into phase three of its reopening, a well-known Music City music venue was preparing for a reopening of its own.

On Thrusday, 3rd and Lindsley in downtown Nashville held its first live, in-person concert since March.

"After a long and twisted year, we've persevered and here we are," Santo Pullella said.

The reopening came after weeks of planning to make sure the venue was following requirements from the city and recommendations from medical leaders. Concert-goers could notice the changes before they even got in the door.

"When they get in line, that's when it starts feeling different," Pullella said. "There's stickers on the sidewalk to separate everyone by six feet, you have to wear a mask in until you get into your table."

The tables are also surrounded by signs that warn people against standing at the bar or moving seats. The normally packed venue plans to be at just 45 percent capacity.

"We didn't want to start moving tables and chairs closer together, because it's not the right time," Pullella said.

Still, Pullella said 3rd and Lindsley is one of the fortunate ones. Music venues in Nashville and across the country have taken major hits because of COVID-19 restrictions, and many are still wondering if they'll be even able to open up again.

"There's thousands of venues across the country from 100 capacity to 50 capacity to arenas and stadiums that you just cannot be the general admission standing room only club anymore."