Warner Chappell and Warner Brothers Music

Look for a building that has a “21” on the front. That’s the Warner Chappell publishing company’s Nashville office. That publishing company is one of the largest in the world.

Warner Brothers bought this studio in 1989, but it started as Monument Records in 1974. Back in the day, Monument Records represented Charlie McCoy, Roy Orbison, Kris Kristofferson, Willie Nelson, and Dolly Parton. By the way, the first Warner Brothers Studio was founded in 1918—over 100 years ago!

Now, look to your right and you’ll see the offices of Warner Brothers Music at 20 Music Square East. They’ve been the record company for acts such as Blake Shelton, Emmylou Harris, Randy Travis, Dan + Shay, Kenny Rogers, Kenny Chesney, Brandy Clark, Cole Swindell, Devin Dawson, Brett Eldredge, Cody Johnson, and others.

There are two other major labels—Sony and Universal—but their offices are not on Music Row any more. They needed bigger buildings so they’ve moved downtown.

How’s your heart rate? Is it the walking or the excitement of being on Music Row that has your heart beating faster? Maybe it’s both. Music Row is not just for tourists, but visitors to our city sure do like to see where the music is made and marketed.

Continue walking north on Music Square East. BMI will be on your right, just after passing Music Circle North. The NHF historical marker will be on your right, visible from the sidewalk.