No Drinking and Only Christian Music During Sunday Gospel Hour at Nashville’s Most Iconic Honky Tonk

August 7, 2024

The most iconic honky tonk in Nashville, Tennessee is known for its country music. But, according to US News, Robert’s Western World also hosts a “Sunday Gospel Hour” in which no one may drink alcohol and must listen to Christian music instead.

Rev. Ron Blakely is a 71 year old musician and Catholic convert who was ordained a priest in another tradition.

For 20 years, Blakely has led the weekly worship service at Robert’s where he brings his gospel message to attendees, largely on his own.

In comparing his weekly gig to regular houses of worship, Blakely said, “It’s not like I got a board of elders and I have to meet all the money to pay the bills. I’m just there, playing my guitar and giving the message that God puts in my heart.”

The honky tonk is known for its plain and straightforward style as one of the last venues of traditional country music and is easily distinguished from the brightly lit bars on Nashville’s honky tonk row.

US News reports that Robert’s is home of the $6 “Recession Special” with its famous fried bologna sandwich, Moon Pie, potato chips and a Pabst Blue Ribbon, although on Sundays drinkers must wait to get their beer after the worship service.

JesseLee Jones is the owner of Robert’s Western World and a devout Christian. Jones says having church on Sunday brings a certain spirit into the place, “People say, ‘Oh, it’s bar.’ Well, I beg to differ — Robert’s is not a bar. It’s a honky tonk. Yeah, we sell beer and liquor, because we’re in business. … But we ain’t got no televisions on the walls. It’s traditional country music from the time it opens, to the time it closes. … You have church services on Sunday.”

Photo: top, Credit: AP Photo/Luis Andres Henao