New York, NY (Top40 Charts) Thousands joined some of the hottest musicians to honor Tootsie Bess and celebrate the legendary Tootsies' World Famous Orchid Lounge on Tuesday, October 11th in Downtown Nashville. The annual block party celebrating Tootsie's 55th Birthday hosted a plethora of hit-makers includingMontgomery Gentry, Darryl Worley, Randy Houser, Jon Pardi,Anthony Orio, Daryle Singletary, Joe Diffie, Trick Pony, Love and Theft, Tera Thompson, The Fiddle Man Tim Watson and surprise guests
Kid Rock and Billy Ray Cyrus.
"Every year this party gets bigger and bigger. Many of these artists got their start at Tootsie's, so it is great to see everything come full circle and have them back to perform to honor Tootsie and Tootsies Orchid Lounge," said Tootsie's proprietor Steve Smith. "Thanks to all who came out and celebrated with us and we look forward to next year!"
The all-day concert event hosted by the most legendary honky-tonk in
Music City included hours of live music from the featured artists alongside a singing competition. Nathan's Hot Dogs' held a hot dog eating competition and Tootsies provided fun for the whole family.
About Tootsie's World Famous Orchid Lounge:
Tootsie's Orchid Lounge has operated across the alley from the Ryman almost continuously since 1960. Its proprietor from 1960 to 1978, Hattie
Louise "Tootsie" Bess, bought the lounge called "Mom's" and named it for herself. According to tradition, a painter mistakenly painted the exterior orchid purple. The color was never changed and became Tootsie's signature color. Over the years, she served such famous customers as Kris Kristofferson, Faron Young and Willie
Nelson when they were still up-and-coming artists, and Tootsie was well-known for her generosity toward struggling musicians. The photo and memorabilia-lined walls are called "Tootsie's Wall of Fame."
Today, Tootsie's Orchid Lounge is a must-see
Music City destination for tourists and is frequented by locals, including some of the biggest names in country music, who often drop in and surprise patrons with impromptu performances.
Kenny Chesney with classic rock icon Steve Miller, Keith Urban, Kix Brooks, Montgomery Gentry, Kid Rock, Steven Tyler, Randy Houser, Jamey Johnson,
Dierks Bentley and Hank Williams, Jr. are among the artists who have recently performed there. For additional information, visit www.tootsies.net.
