Country music artist Eric Church has opened a unique bar, restaurant, and music venue in downtown Nashville, with the help of real estate developer Ben Weprin. Named Chief’s after Church’s nickname and his grandfather, who was once the Chief of Police in his hometown, the six-story building is filled with memorabilia, artifacts, and images related to Church’s music journey and background. The collaboration between Church and Weprin, who have been friends since 2015, has resulted in a venue that truly reflects Church’s story and creativity.
Weprin, the founder and CEO of AJ Capital Partners, has worked closely with Church over the past three years to bring Chief’s to life. The building, located at the corner of Broadway and 2nd Avenue, was once the site of the old Cotton Eyed Joe and has now been transformed into a space that showcases Church’s life and career. From concert posters to North Carolina sports memorabilia, every aspect of the venue has a story to tell. Church and Weprin have paid careful attention to even the smallest details in order to create a space that is truly special and unique.
Church’s vision for Chief’s goes beyond just being a bar and restaurant. He plans to host pop-up shows and a 19-show residency at his ticketed music venue, Neon Steeple, on the 3rd and 4th floors of Chief’s. Inspired by the intimacy of the Ryman Auditorium, Church’s shows will be a curated experience for his dedicated fans. The grand opening of Chief’s featured the first show of this residency, and Church hopes to create a special and vulnerable space where he can share stories and music in a unique way.
In addition to the music and entertainment aspect, Church has also teamed up with James Beard Award-winning Pitmaster Rodney Scott to provide top-notch food and drink options at Chief’s. The rooftop restaurant, Hell of a Q, and a first-floor walk-up window will feature Scott’s Whole Hog BBQ, while the bars will serve a variety of spirited beverages, including Church’s newly released Whiskey JYPSI Explorer Series. Church’s influence can be seen in every aspect of Chief’s, from the decor to the menu, creating an immersive and unforgettable experience for visitors.
The collaboration between Church and Weprin has been a true partnership, with Weprin’s expertise in real estate and design complementing Church’s vision and creativity. The two friends have put a lot of hard work and dedication into making Chief’s a reality, and they are excited to finally share it with the public. Church describes Weprin as the best storyteller through space, and credits him with bringing his vision for Chief’s to life. The venue represents a new chapter for Church, who hopes to create a special and memorable experience for fans and visitors alike.
As Chief’s opens its doors to the public, Church is looking forward to the future and the possibilities that lie ahead. With a space that reflects his personal journey and creative vision, Church hopes to connect with fans in a new and intimate way. The collaboration between Church and Weprin has resulted in a venue that is truly one-of-a-kind in Nashville’s bustling Lower Broadway scene. Chief’s promises to be a place where music, food, and storytelling come together to create a memorable and immersive experience for all who visit.
