Had lunch in the world famous 'pedestrian only' Beale Street. A carnival like atmosphere where BBQ and burger joints are in every second shop. I wanted to eat at what I thought looked like a great BBQ place - called BB Kings! Till David told me that BB King was 'only' one of the greatest jazz musicians of his time - and not a BBQ joint!
Went to Graceland! Very impressive. Were not allowed to take much photography inside the mansion unfortunately. Elvis bought the mansion back in 1957 for a total of $100,000 as a 22 year old. After his divorce to Priscilla in 1973, he redecorated it with wall to wall shag pile carpets and vinyl, and 70's furniture (in fact the kitchen looked quite similar to mine at home in Ballarat)! Then on August 16th, 1977 Elvis died of heart failure in his upstairs bathroom. Priscilla made the decision in 1982, to open up Graceland for the public to tour through and remember his contribution to music for years to come.
We arrived there the day after the anniversary of Elvis' death. There we many tributes and wreaths still on his grave sight out by his pool. Many of his cars were on display, loads of gold and platinum records and most amazing was his wardrobe of costumes! Kenny thought it was terrific - just hangin' out in the King's house!
Off to Nashville, approx 4 hours away. Not only is Nashville the capital city of Tennessee, it is also the Country Music capital of the world - also know to the locals as Nash Vegas! Very cool place. Population of over 590,000 people!
Has a downtown strip similar to Memphis where live music is playing on every street corner and out of every bar and restaurant in town. We strolled down the street enjoying all that Nashville had to offer. Margarita's, Brisket, Ribs and yes.....line dancing! The 'Wildhorse Saloon' was offering free lessons, so off we went! Film crews were driving down the street making music clips, budding young singers and musicians busked on every corner. At least people here know where Australia is, thanks to the great Keith Urban (who is just idolised in Nashville)!
Cowgirl boots are the most worn fashion item here in Tennessee, so thought we'd fit in with the crowd - denim shorts, boots and off we go! David tried hard to find a Cowboy hat too, but to no avail. Instead we just went and saddled up our horses and went on a trail ride early one morning. An hour ride in the beautiful surrounds of Mt. Juliet saw Team Connor take to the trails of the bush. Jackson and Makalea did really well except Jackson's horse wouldn't let anyone else's pass his, so he had to be in the lead.
Saturday night we'd bought tickets to a show called 'The Grand Ole Opray'. For those who don't know what this is, it is a live produced country music concert that goes straight onto the airwaves of radio for millions of listeners to enjoy from the comfort of their homes. It has been running for approx 70 - 80 years and is a lavish tribute to classic Nashville country music. The auditorium seated 4,400 people. To my surprise there was something for everyone! From very old country singers to the ever popular modern day artists... Dad - you would've absolutely loved it!!
Everyone from Johnny Cash, Charley Pride, Kenny Rogers, Dolly Parton, Garth Brooks and Keith Urban have all performed on that stage at some point in their career. Had the pleasure to see and hear "Little Jimmy Dickens", the ripe old age of 90 and still going strong!
Leaving Tennessee tomorrow on our way through Georgia and into Florida.....baby!
Start warming the weather up down there for us in Oz.
Love to y'all.....
Team Connor USA. XOXOXOXO
Well, it's a one for the money, 2 for the show, 3 to get ready and off you go to Georgia! I love Georgia. Take some photos of some lovely big ol' houses for me! xo
ReplyDeleteDon't forget to TRY some "Sweet Tea" in Georgia (so thick, your spoon stands up). It's a "southern thing" - share one for the whole family.
ReplyDeleteStay away from the east coast for now and let Hurricane (Typhoon) Irene pass you bye. Goodnight, Irene!
Becky