We now know more about Luke Combs‘ downtown bar and music venue, taking over the spot where the Wildhorse Saloon used to be. The Grand Ole Opry member reveals the new place will be called Category 10, inspired by “Hurricane,” Combs’ debut single, and first No. 1 hit.
Combs announced the news on social media.
“As you know, we’ve been teasing a bar of mine in downtown Nashville,” Combs said. “I’m excited to officially announce the name of that bar. It’s going to be called Category 10. I’m so excited about that. Obviously, as you guys know, the strongest a hurricane can be is Category 5, so we figured we’d double it, and make it Category 10.
“It’s going to be an awesome honky-tonk in downtown Nashville,” he continued. “Food, spirits, you name it. Whatever you want, we’re gonna have it. It’s gonna be so much fun. I can’t wait for this thing to open. I can’t wait to see you guys there.”
Excited to announce my new honky-tonk will be called Category 10 and open this year!
Follow the venue’s official page (@OfficialCat10) to get the most up-to-date news first. pic.twitter.com/37H6RkhdlC
— Luke Combs 🎤 (@lukecombs) January 30, 2024
Per a press release, the 67,000 square foot space, will feature five different entertainment experiences. The first level, The Honky-Tonk, will be an authentic honky-tonk, with A-list entertainment. The Main Stage will feature the largest dance floor and stage in downtown Nashville, with a 1500-person capacity for ticketed concert events, along with line dance lessons and a large beer selection.
The Sports Bar will have numerous sports playing year-round. The Still, inspired by Combs’ songwriting, is designed for Combs’ Bootleggers Fan Club, bourbon aficionados, songwriters and music lovers.with up-and-coming singer-songwrtiers. The Eye, which boasts the largest outdoor deck in the downtown Broadway area, has a 7000 square-foot rooftop bar, with views of both the Cumberland River and Nissan Stadium.
With plenty of options at Category 10, Combs’ main goal is to support musical acts, from the newcomers to established artists.
“Cat 10 is going to be a place that artists of all levels want to play downtown,” said Combs. “We are building a spot where we can put on a high-level touring act show one night and a songwriter showcase the next. There isn’t anything like this venue, and I can’t wait for everyone to experience it.”
Category 10 is a joint venture by Combs and Opry Entertainment Group.
“The Category 10 name symbolizes the sheer, undeniable power of Luke’s voice, songwriting, and career, and just like Luke, this venue will be an off-the-charts experience unlike anything else downtown,” said Colin Reed, Executive Chairman of Ryman Hospitality Properties.
Combs previously said that he wanted his downtown bar to be a place that especially honored songwriters.
“It’s important for me, I think, to have opportunities as a songwriter to showcase your ability,” Combs said. “I remember just being able to play for other songwriters was a huge thing for me. So I think having a very, very, very high-end songwriters night would be something that I would love, for new artists to come and be able to play their favorite song, or the best song that they have in front of other songwriters.”
Category 10 will be located at 120 2nd Avenue North. It is slated to open this summer. Updates can be found at Category10.com.
