Southern stereotypes are some of the most interesting and incorrect aspects of our current society, and Tennessee isn't spared. We've put together a quick list of common misconceptions regarding the Volunteer State. How many have YOU heard before?
13) The Women Raise Hell
Country songs like to paint Tennessee ladies as those looking for revenge and raising hell in a bar. No matter how many songs Carrie Underwood may sing about ex-boyfriends and baseball bat toting ladies, Tennessee women are just as intelligently independent as any other state.
12) Big Hair Rules
As much as we love Dolly, big hair went the way of the eighties. You'll find sleek bobs and pixie cuts spread throughout the state.
11) Everyone Drives a Truck
Um, no. With all the state transplants and doctors that flood Tennessee neighborhoods, you'll find just as many sports cars as Fords. Just depends on where you take a drive.
10) You Can Only Get Comfort Food
Don't get us wrong - we love a good plate of macaroni and cheese. However, with gym memberships up and health food stores popping up statewide, you don't have to look far for a green smoothie.
9) Everyone Sings Country Music
Heck no! It's called, "Music City" for a reason - it's the hub for music of all genres. Jack White and Sam Smith frequent Tennessee for recording sessions - White even makes his home outside of Nashville.
8) Hospitality Is Expected
You'll find some of the nicest people in the states here in Tennessee. Still, southerners are polite and won't make you hang out for Sunday dinner. Promise.
7) Everyone Carries a Gun
Um, no. Maybe on the farm? But Tennesseans are openminded when it comes to your ideas on guns. Not everyone has one, and you're more than welcome to keep it out of your home. We get it.
6) Everyone Goes to Church
Again, not true. There is definitely church traffic on Sunday mornings, and Tennessee boasts beautiful church buildings and expansive ministeries. But if you'd rather catch brunch? Go for it. You won't catch a sidelong glance and will beat the crowds! It's 2015, after all.
5) Everyone Says, "Ya'll"
Not everyone takes part in this southern stereotype. You're most likely to here, 'you all' as much as you hear its 'ya'll' counterpart. This may be due to the solid influx of transplants to the state in recent years.
4) Butter As A Food Group
Tennessee has been breaking all kinds of healthy boundaries lately. Thought you'll find biscuits and gravy in an abundance, you'll also be able to indulge in expanding juiceries and vegan restaurants.
3) Blue Jeans Every Day
No way! Nashville is making a name for itself fashion-wise, and with Meghan Trainor and Taylor Swift setting the standards in Music City, you'll find a larger number of Levi fans on the farm.
2) Tennesseans Are Uneducated
Nashville doesn't have the nickname, "Athen's of the South" for no reason. Tennessee boasts a booming education system for medical professionals and college-bound kids alike. Don't underestimate 'em - these brains are a powerful thing.
1) Tennesseans are BBQ snobs
You know what? We're going to agree with this one. It doesn't get better than Memphis, ya'll.
So, what do you think? Do you agree with these stereotypes or think there's more to be found down here in the south? We'd love to hear, so let us know in the comments below!
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!