Macklemore Instagram – Nashville was our first stop of THE BEN TOUR USA. I’ve always loved this city. I have an outsiders infatuation with the hole in the wall hot chicken that is way too spicy for my digestive system, the rich lineage of country music that I’ve never listened to and the bars that I don’t drink at. It feels like the most beautiful time warp, an ode to an era of the past. It’s one of my favorite places in the world to go vintage hunting so I spent the day in pursuit of western relics, snakeskin garments and any other come ups the universe would provide. The southern charm is felt in every corner of this city and I felt such a genuine love and excitement from the fans I met before the show waiting in line. Being the first show of the tour I felt a bit nervous beforehand, which is a rare yet welcomed sensation for me these days. The historic, gorgeous and intimate Ryman auditorium is very different than the European festivals we’ve been playing the last 3 months. It’s almost like a different sport, going from massive crowds to intimate ones, but both equal in the opportunity to connect. The Nashville audience was perfectly engaged, turnt and some say they’ve never felt the floor shake like it did last night. Take that Bluegrass. It was extra special last night because my sister Kesha unexpectedly came through 30 seconds before we were about to play Good Old Days and in true Kesha form was down to just hop up on stage and do what she does best… Sing. To round out the Nashville experience after the show a handful of us went next door to the gem that is Roberts to hear the local band and struggle with what y’all call a 2 step. Shit still feels like a waltz count to me, and I eventually returned to the 2 step I learned in middle school to Jodeci. But I respect it. And I love Nashville. Thank you for setting off this tour in the best way possible. Next stop… Our nations capital. Ryman Auditorium Nashville TN