Iconic Nashville Honky Tonk Second Fiddle Reportedly Closing January 1

Rumors have been circulating online as multiple employees express their disappointment over the news that Nashville honky tonk The Second Fiddle is reportedly set to close its doors permanently on January 1, 2026.

Located at 420 Broadway between Tootsie’s and Layla’s, the honky tonk has long stood out as one of the last remaining downtown bars to make an effort to preserve the traditions of early Broadway. Between its nostalgic music memorabilia decor, live country music seven days a week, and no cover charge, the bar has become a staple for locals and visitors looking to step away from the corporate establishments that have taken over the famous street.

The bar is also one of the few remaining places along Broadway that has not been owned by a major hospitality company or converted into a country artist owned bar and venue. Instead, Second Fiddle is owned by Ruble and Brenda Sanderson, who also own two other nearby bars on Broadway with Legend’s Corner and The Stage.

News began to spread of its unexpected closing date when several staff members posted online asking for help in their search for a new job.

One user wrote, “Do any of my Broadway friends know of anywhere that’s hiring? We just found out The Second Fiddle will be closing permanently Jan 1, 2026. I’ve been there for over 4 years and I was expecting to be there for many more. I just cannot even put into words the many emotions that I’m feeling right now. I’m seriously just so heartbroken for all of us!”

The sad and disheartening posts continued to pour in from frequent visitors, musicians who have played on the Second Fiddle stage and more.

“What can I say… I just have found out that Second Fiddle will be closed for good, after New years eve. A lot of memories and a lot of music i have played there. It has been homebase for my band. So many friends and family have come to see our band here along with so many other great bands. Time changes everything. Gonna miss playing for everyone,” one artist wrote.

Another said, “I have been on their stages on and off for many years with some of my favorite people. Loved so many people who have worked there. Made Memories I will never forget.”

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Other users expressed their fear that with another traditional honky tonk leaving, Broadway will continue to get further and further away from its origins and will soon be overrun by flashy, multiple-story entertainment venues.

“To see another staple go, worries me more for the future of Broadway although I still love doing what I do and wouldn’t trade it for the world, I sure do miss the old days.”

The Second Fiddle has yet to confirm this news of its closure, nor is it clear whether the building is being sold or if it will be rebranded into something new. Regardless, according to the business’ official website, the live music will continue each day until December 31.