Nashville, Tn. October 1, 2020— When Matthew Barker, Vice President of Two Rivers Ford and avid music fan, learned that Nashville’s independent, local music venues were in danger of closing permanently due to the hardships of COVID-19, he was determined to help. Matthew quickly connected with MUSIC VENUE ALLIANCE NASHVILLE (MVAN), a local 501c6 non-profit that represents fifteen local music venues, a close-knit group of passionate, proud Nashvillians committed to retaining and nurturing the music scene in Nashville.
A plan was born.
Two Rivers Ford and MVAN created a unique partnership between an auto dealership the local music scene in an effort to help to help save Nashville’s local independent music venues and the fragile ecosystem surrounding them, including the livelihoods of servers, performers, lighting and sound professionals, etc.
The effort is called “Drive the Music”.
Beginning October 1st, music fans everywhere can donate to help keep independent music alive in Nashville by purchasing a “Drive The Music” t-shirt for $30 at www.drivethemusicnashville.com. 100% of profits will go directly to MVAN. The site also provides other options to donate include the option to purchase a $35 long sleeve shirt, the option to purchase a $5 mini-poster, and a link to donate directly to MVAN.
The local Music Venues that make up MVAN are: 3rd & Lindsley, Cannery Ballroom, DRKMTTR, Exit/IN, Mercy Lounge, Rudy’s Jazz Room, Springwater Supper Club and Lounge, Station Inn, The 5 Spot, The Basement, The Bluebird Café, The East Room, The High Watt, The Listening Room Café.
For more information on Music Venue Alliance, go to www.musicvenuealliancenashville.com