Back in the 1930s and ’40s, Knoxville radio station WNOX hosted a lunchtime musical variety show called the Midday Merry-Go-Round. Hosted by Lowell Blanchard, the show attracted hundreds of patrons and thousands more who tuned in to listen to the show live on radio. It was a stepping stone to the Grand Ole Opry, and legendary performers like Roy Acuff, Chet Atkins, Kitty Wells, and Bill and Charlie Monroe were among the entertainers.

So when Knoxville radio station WDVX started its own lunchtime live music program back in the 1990s it was following in hallowed footsteps. But it also felt like something quite new and exciting for downtown Knoxville.

Today, the WDVX Blue Plate Special takes place Monday through Friday from noon to 1 p.m. at the Knoxville Visitor Center at 301 South Gay Street (the building also houses the WDVX studios). The performers vary from bluegrass to Americana to rock. It is a wonderful way to pass an hour, since you get to listen to live music and watch a radio show being made at the same time. The atmosphere is intimate, casual, and—at times—electric. A coffee bar serves sandwiches and drinks, but you are welcome to bring your own bag lunch as well.