In 1927, Ralph Peer of Victor Talking Machine Company journeyed to the border town of Bristol, TN/VA in search of new talent for his recording company. What he found would change the face of American music forever. The Carter Family, Stoneman Family, and Jimmie Rodgers were among the acts auditioning for Peer. The legendary “Bristol Sessions” established a new genre of music—country music. Today, live music flourishes at a variety of events throughout the year in downtown Bristol. A self-guided audio walking tour of historic downtown Bristol allows visitors to retrace the footsteps of country and bluegrass pioneers while listening to their stories and music.  *NETTA is a non-profit organization*