New Nashville Palace Debut

The New Nashville Palace will open New Year’s Eve with new owners, a new look and a great big party.

Steve Smith and John Taylor, owners of Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge, purchased the 31-year-old, 600-capacity venue — rumored to be the place Randy Travis was “discovered” by record execs — after it was shuttered in March.

“It is our hope to make the Palace ‘the place to be’ once again where country music fans can enjoy intimate performances by their favorite country stars in a show atmosphere,” Smith said in a statement. “Just like Tootsie’s, we’re hoping the New Nashville Palace will become the back door to today’s Opry right across the street.”

Country artists Phil Vassar and John Stone are scheduled to perform at the opening bash.