Minnesota native Caitlyn Smith grew up in a small town, but she’s ready to go “Downtown Baby” in her latest single, which will impact Country radio on April 4.
Co-written by Smith alongside Simon Wilcox, Gordie Sampson, Ryan Gore and Thomas Salter, “Downtown Baby” will appear on Smith’s upcoming new album, High, which is due out on April 8th and available for preorder/pre-save now HERE. Smith self-produced the album, which was a first for the acclaimed artist.
During an album preview event, Smith showed video with footage from the studio during the album’s creation and shared what she was feeling throughout the process.
“My whole life of music has been mystified, like it was a special language that only a few could truly speak,” shared Smith. “But the truth about music is that it’s a playground. It’s meant to be fun. Mistakes are meant to be made because from mistakes, we learn, and from mistakes, we discover who we are, what works, and what doesn’t.”
“In this process I gave myself the space to be messy, to not know what I was doing, to make the mistakes, to be unsure, and just feel my way through it. Through this process, I’ve grown,” she explained. “It felt like I was jumping off a mountain and I didn’t know if I was going to crash and burn, pull a parachute, or if I was going to grow wings and actually fly. I made a record that I’m really, really proud of. This record is all mine. I took the jump and I’m flying… High.”
Smith brings her fresh and fun tune “Downtown Baby” to life in Printer’s Alley, a historic nightlife destination in Nashville. Longing for a change of scenery, Smith shines in the music video as she explores the glow of the late-night downtown alley.
In honor of the release, Smith shared 10 of her favorite hangout spots in Nashville.
Robert’s Western World
“If you’re going to experience a honky tonk – you MUST go to Roberts. This is by far my favorite place to go on Broadway. I love the Nashville nostalgia that hits you in the face as soon as you walk in the door. This is a great place to hang with friends, dance to the incredible live band (who plays only old school country music) and maybe even enjoy a fried bologna sandwich. Last time I was here was after I walked my first CMA Awards red carpet and boy did I drink some Tequila that night!”
Marcella Vivrette Smith Park
“This is one of the most beautiful parks in the Nashville area. I love bringing my boys here to play, have a family picnic or go on a walk with my husband. The most ideal time to visit is in the spring and fall when the weather is just right. It’s the best place to slow down for a minute, get out in the sunshine and just breathe.”
Arrington Vineyards
“Arrington Vineyards is on the outskirts of town and has an amazing view of the rolling Tennessee hills. There is the cutest barn that you can sit by and sip on your wine. In the summer you can even get wine slushies! I love coming here with my family and friends when they’re in town. We always set up a nice picnic on the hillside, bring a lot of cheese and enjoy an afternoon together in the sun.”
Yellow Porch
“The Yellow Porch is one of my favorite restaurants in town. They have a small but delicious menu and a great wine selection. (Definitely try the Blue Cheese soup when you go!) It’s the perfect spot for a nice date night, a business dinner or to catch up with friends. The staff here is very knowledgeable and friendly AND they always have a suggestion that is sure to be my new favorite. A must-try in the 100 Oaks area.”
Pinewood Social
“Pinewood Social is in the perfect part of downtown. It’s right on the river and has a patio that overlooks the Korean Veteran’s bridge. The vibe inside is the coolest – bowling alley and all. It’s the perfect spot to grab brunch with some friends, or even a craft cocktail before you head downtown. A perfect place to relax without the hustle and bustle of downtown.”
Grand Ole Opry
“Let me tell you, this is one of the most magical venues in the city. You never know who could show up on stage to surprise the fans in the crowd and the artists on stage. Every time I get to play the Opry and step in the circle, I’m reminded of exactly why I moved to Nashville in the first place. Some of my favorite memories of the Opry have been taking my boys to experience and see it – memories I’ll cherish for the rest of my life.”
Carter Vintage
“Hands down the best place to drool at guitars! Carter Vintage has the most unique guitar inventory in town. You never know what you’re going to see when you walk through the door. The staff is always so kind and helpful…. They’ll even let you jam out with the guitar in the store before you buy it. A must-visit for any music lover coming to town.”
Barista Parlor
“Anytime I’m performing in Nashville, Barista Parlor is my go-to coffee shop. It’s the perfect place to have a morning meeting over a bougie latte, or set up at a table with an afternoon cold brew and get some work done. With its multiple locations, it’s always so convenient to find one. I typically always need a nice warm tea to get my voice ready to perform on stage and Barista has the best in town.”
Thompson Hotel
“The Thompson Hotel is one of the most vibey spots in town and one of my favorite spots in The Gulch. It’s an incredibly relaxing and classy hotel to stay at… But their rooftop bar, L.A. Jackson, is my favorite in town – and a common late night stop for me and my friends. It has the best view in the city overlooking downtown and they carry some of my favorite brands of tequila. There is nothing better than sitting on their rooftop patio, sipping on a cocktail and taking in the views of Music City.”
The Basement East
“I was heartbroken when the March 2020 tornado destroyed The Basement East. But one of the most amazing things was how the Nashville community came together to support and help rebuild. I had the honor of playing The Basement East shortly after it reopened in 2021 and the feeling of pride from all the Nashvillians in there made it one of my favorite shows ever. I catch a show here every chance I can because The Basement East is truly the essence of Nashville.”
