Jack Daniels Big Bash
Nashville, TN
By Elizabeth Locke
Photos by Elizabeth Locke and Dan Locke
Over the years I have seen New Year Eve in the Philippines in the streets of Davao City and on television. And on television it has always been NYE in New York And never really saw anything other part of the celebration in the United State until now.
At the age of 53, as a Filipino woman with a deep love for 70s romantic music, I found myself stepping out of my usual musical comfort zone to experience Nashville’s famed New Year’s Eve Big Bash. And what an unforgettable experience it turned out to be! Here’s a look at the event through the eyes of someone who cherishes the timeless melodies of Barry Manilow and Air Supply.
Nashville, known as the epicenter of country music, delivered on its promise of a high-energy, musically rich celebration. The moment I arrived at Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park, I was immediately swept up by the palpable excitement in the air. Thousands of people from all walks of life were gathered to ring in the new year with a night filled with music, dancing, and revelry.
The performances were the heart and soul of the Big Bash. The lineup featured an array of talented country artists, both legendary and emerging ( Keith Urban , Kane Brown, Jelly Roll, Shaboozey, Alana Springsteen and Brittany Spencer). Despite my affinity for the smooth sounds of 70s romantic music, I found myself appreciating the raw, heartfelt performances that country music is known for. The artists’ passion and connection with the audience were truly contagious. One moment that stood out to me was a beautiful ballad performed by a Keith Urban, which, although different in genre, resonated with the same emotional depth that I love about 70s romantic music.
The stage was a spectacle in itself, adorned with dazzling lights, fireworks, and giant screens that ensured everyone had a great view of the action. The visual effects were nothing short of spectacular, adding an extra layer of excitement to the night. As someone who grew up attending more intimate, mellow concerts, this grand-scale production was a thrilling change of pace.
One of the most delightful surprises of the evening was the variety of musical influences present. While country music was the star of the show, there were moments when other genres made an appearance. A DJ played a mix of pop and disco hits from the all genes during the intermissions, which brought a smile to my face and got me dancing along with the crowd. It was heartwarming to see people of all ages enjoying the nostalgic tunes that I hold dear.
As midnight approached, the anticipation grew, and the energy in the crowd became almost tangible. The countdown was a communal experience, with everyone joining in to mark the final moments of the year. When the clock struck twelve, the sky exploded with a breathtaking fireworks display that illuminated the entire city. It was a magical moment, filled with joy and hope for the year ahead.
However, no event is without its minor hiccups. The sheer size of the crowd was a bit overwhelming at times (220,000 people), and navigating through the throngs of people required some patience. Finding a good spot to watch the performances was a bit of a challenge, but once I settled in, it was well worth the effort. Additionally, the cold December night was a stark contrast to the warm, tropical climate of the Philippines, so dressing appropriately was key to enjoying the evening comfortably.
Despite these minor inconveniences, the Jack Daniels New Year’s Eve Live Nashville Big Bash was a phenomenal way to welcome the new year. It was a beautiful reminder of the power of music to bring people together, regardless of their backgrounds or musical preferences. As a fan of 70s romantic music, I discovered a newfound appreciation for country music and the vibrant culture of Nashville.
The event was also an opportunity to meet new people and share in the collective celebration. I struck up conversations with fellow attendees, exchanged stories, and even made a few new friends. It was heartening to see such a diverse crowd, all united in their love for music and the excitement of a new beginning.
In conclusion, Nashville’s New Year’s Eve Big Bash was an exhilarating and enriching experience. It was a departure from my usual musical taste, but it opened my eyes to the beauty of country music and the infectious energy of a large-scale celebration. If you’re ever looking for a unique way to celebrate the new year, I highly recommend giving the Big Bash a try. Who knows, you might just find yourself tapping your feet to a country tune and discovering a new musical love.
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