Asheville's Busking Scene Keeps Music in the Air

Discover the Rhythms of Asheville’s Vibrant Busking Scene

Asheville, NC, is a city alive with the sounds of street performers. The city has attracted creatives since the 1890s when George Vanderbilt recruited artisans to work on the Biltmore. Now it’s a regular stop for performers of all persuasions.

When a busker blows into his homemade didgeridoo, an ethereal throbbing sound echoes through downtown Asheville. A moment later, a percussionist lays down a rhythm on a hand drum, and a saxophone player new to town joins in as well. The three have never played together before, but they soon find a groove. The air fills with a haunting mix of world music and jazz. Soon a crowd gathers near the Flat Iron statue, and in no time, an open guitar case fills with bills. From alt rock to zydeco, there’s literally music in Asheville’s air.

Feel the Energy

“There are brilliant musicians on the street here,” says Erin Derham, filmmaker of the award-winning documentary Buskin’ Blues. Buskers, or street performers, are an essential part of Asheville’s unique energy. “It feels like a party that you didn’t know about, and you just stumbled upon it,” she says. When Derham first moved to Asheville, she was amazed at the talent playing for tips. She soon discovered that many performers cherish the freedom and challenge of street busking. Unlike bar gigs, where audiences are captive, buskers have mere seconds to capture the attention of passersby, creating a dynamic and engaging experience.

Asheville embraces its buskers with welcoming regulations. Musicians are required to stay at least 40 feet apart and to allow room for pedestrians. While they can’t outright sell CDs or merchandise, they can give them away in exchange for donations. Buskers also follow their own code: after two hours of performing, they move along to give others a chance to shine. This tradition, which started in the 1980s, has grown into a vital part of Asheville’s charm.

A Symphony of Talent on Every Corner

On any given evening, downtown Asheville transforms into a stage where visitors are treated to performances that range from old-time Americana jug bands to solo artists playing washboards, washtub bass, and resonator guitars. Imagine stopping in your tracks as a crowd forms two deep, captivated by a heartfelt song about lost love. As the music ends, a visitor drops a $5 bill into a guitar case, a gesture of appreciation for the spontaneous concert.

Where to Find the Music

The best way to experience Asheville’s busking scene is to simply follow your ears. Performers are out most days from late morning until about 9 p.m. Prime locations include the Flat Iron statue on Battery Park Avenue, along Haywood Street, near the Grove Arcade, and around Pack Square. Remember, street musicians aren’t panhandlers; they perform to make a living, and busking etiquette encourages tipping. If you stop to enjoy a performance, show your appreciation with a tip.

Join Us in Asheville

Come and immerse yourself in Asheville’s dynamic busking scene. Our streets are filled with music, creativity, and delightful surprises. Whether you're a longtime resident or a first-time visitor, Asheville's street performers offer an unforgettable experience that you won’t want to miss. Let the melodies of Asheville’s buskers guide your journey through our vibrant downtown!