Odie’s: A Homecoming for Old Dominion and Their Devoted Fans
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
Nashville’s music scene has a new pulse, and it’s beating at 1919 Division, the former site of the infamous Rebar. This past Saturday, a surprise pop-up show by country music sensation Old Dominion at their newly opened bar, Odie’s, wasn’t just an opening night; it was a deeply personal homecoming, drawing over 300 wildly devoted fans – affectionately known as the ODIE’S – far exceeding legal capacity, all thanks to an obscure social media hint.
The devotion was evident hours before the doors even opened. By 5 a.m., a line had already formed, snaking around the midtown block. This wasn’t a gathering of industry insiders or VIPs; it was a testament to the genuine connection Old Dominion shares with the people who have embraced their songs as the soundtrack to their lives. “When we started hanging at places like the Blue Bar where we played for no one, and decided on our name, Losers and Rebar, too, these weren’t hotspots,” recalled lead singer/guitarist Matthew Ramsey from the stage. “These were places for songwriters to knock off after a day of maybe not getting a song, to sit with your publisher celebrating a cut. These were working class bars, and the people who were working up and down Music Row were creating songs they hoped would say something or create a feeling that an artist was looking for.”
Ramsey’s words resonated deeply with the crowd, many of whom are undoubtedly part of that same creative ecosystem. He spoke of the “heavy conversations” and the shared frustrations and triumphs that built the foundation of their friendships and careers in these very rooms. The idea of opening a bar wasn’t initially on their radar, but when the opportunity arose, their vision was clear: to create something truly different, a place that felt like a welcoming haven for both artists and fans.
And “different” it is. Odie’s eschews pretension, opting instead for a playful, laid-back atmosphere. Neon signs declaring “No Bad Vibes” and “Cold Beer Stiff Drinks” set the tone, while a unique 12-seat pontoon boat bar adds a quirky touch that immediately dispels any notion of a typical Nashville establishment. The mood on Saturday night was already electric, a pre-game celebration ready to ignite when Old Dominion took the stage just after 8 p.m.
The band’s 90-minute set was a masterclass in fan engagement. Beyond debuting “Me Most Nights” from their upcoming album, Old Dominion embraced the spontaneity of requests, prompting ecstatic cheers with a rendition of “I Should Have Married You,” a song that clearly holds a special place in the hearts of many. Ramsey’s heartfelt address from the stage encapsulated the spirit of Odie’s: “We wanted to make a place where if you’re a musician and artist, you can come here and play here, welcome home. And if you live here, you love a vibe and want somewhere to hang out, welcome home.” His gratitude was palpable as he acknowledged the crowd’s presence as validation for their long and arduous journey: “Thank you so much for showing us that chasing our dreams wasn’t a stupid idea entirely.”
The audience, hailing from as far away as Scotland, sang along to hits like “I Was On A Boat That Day” and “Hotel Key,” reaffirming the global reach of Old Dominion’s music. Odie’s, it seems, is poised to become more than just a bar; it’s a living room for creatives, a meeting point for dreamers, and a place where strangers become friends through the universal language of music.
Old Dominion’s journey from playing to empty rooms to headlining arenas and breaking CMA records is a testament to their unwavering dedication and infectious sound. Their clever lyrics and hook-heavy songwriting have solidified their position at the forefront of country music, earning them nine No. 1 singles, billions of streams, and numerous RIAA certifications. The recent release of their 31-track greatest hits compilation, Odies but Goodies, further celebrates their evolution and their deep connection with their fans, focusing on the songs that have resonated most profoundly.
Their consistent recognition as “Group of the Year” by both the Academy of Country Music and the Country Music Association, including a record-breaking seventh consecutive win at the 2024 CMA Awards, speaks volumes about their enduring appeal and impact. Their recent seven-show residency at Nashville’s iconic Ryman Auditorium, raising over $1.25 million for various charities, showcased not only their musical prowess but also their commitment to giving back to the community that has supported them.
Odie’s isn’t just another venture for Old Dominion; it’s an extension of their artistic vision and a tangible manifestation of their gratitude to the fans who have been with them every step of the way. It’s a place where the line between artist and audience blurs, where the stories behind the songs come alive, and where the “no bad vibes” philosophy promises a night of genuine connection and celebration. It’s a bold statement in a city filled with music venues, and one that feels authentically Old Dominion.
Photo Credit: Mason Allen