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From WSM Radio, this is Building Nashville. These are the stories of the people, places, and events that helped make a Music City. Hosted by Chuck Mead and produced from the studios of 650 AM WSM.

Sep 13, 2019

After stints at several Nashville venues, including three decades at Ryman Auditorium; the Grand Ole Opry finds a permanent home at the Opry House in 1974. 

In this episode, we chronicle the last days the show lives at The Ryman, the first night at the Opry House, and the 2010 disaster that nearly destroyed it...


Sep 5, 2019

In the late 1920's the Grand Ole Opry radio show on WSM had become appointment listening for much of North America. In this episode, follow the Opry as it outgrows the WSM studios in downtown Nashville and goes trekking across town, looking for a home.

Building Nashville is made possible by Delta Dental of Tennessee. 


Jul 18, 2019

In this episode, Chuck Mead takes you to the stage of the Grand Ole Opry for a very special Tuesday show. Then, you will meet a man who spent many years behind the famous red curtain; "Bud" Wendell. Bud arrived in the Music City in the 1960's and spent the next four decades helping to shape the Nashville we know today....


Jul 11, 2019

As WSM becomes one of the most dominate stations in the US, station staff and engineers strive to develop programming and technology to reach an even bigger audience. When the country is plunged into WWII; WSM provides the news Americans want and the escapism they need. 

Building Nashville is made possible by Delta...


Jul 4, 2019

When National Life and Accident Insurance Company decided to create a radio station to increase insurance sales, they created a legend. In this episode, learn how WSM broke new ground in broadcasting, from the famous Air Castle tower to connecting North America like no station had done before. 

Building Nashville is...