The Station has attracted a loyal and discerning audience over the past eleven years, one that eagerly looks forward to every concert the music venue has to offer. Located at 4206 Miser Station Rd in Louisville, The Station is known for its intimate atmosphere, a superior sound system and the special reverence given by the audience for the artists that perform within its walls.
Once a 140 year-old house badly in need of repair, the building was restored, refurbished and turned into a 75-seat concert venue in 2014. Owned by John Johnstone (otherwise known as “J.J.”), the Station grew out of informal jam sessions that took place in the Johnstones’ backyard. Those gatherings evolved into house concerts that began attracting increasingly large gatherings of friends and neighbors. When the building across the street became available, John and his late wife Sandy purchased it as a storage facility. However once it was gutted and the interior walls removed, the couple decided to turn it into a music venue instead. Pictures, posters and memorabilia were added, a sound system was installed, and Johnstone’s brother-in-law Billy, a recording artist and former record company executive, was given responsibility for booking the performers.
A number of leading Americana artists have performed there over the years, among them,
popular country singer Pam Tillis; Becky Buller, a 10-time IBMA Award Winner Singer/Songwriter; the late John Prine’s brother, Billy Prine; Charlie McCoy, a exceptional harp player and the man who produced Bob Dylan’s Nashville recordings; well-known Nashville artist and producer, Thom Jutz, the popular Blount County duo, The Young Fables; rising country star Billy Droze; notable honky-tonk musician Scott Southworth; and the late Guy Clark’s longstanding collaborators, Shawn Camp and Verlon Thompson.
With Hubbard’s decision to focus on his own music career, Johnstone himself took charge of overseeing the operation and ensuring that the focus and philosophy remained the same.
“Our programming focuses on selecting artists whose work aligns with the ‘Americana’ genre,” Johnstone says. “This approach enables us to present a diverse range of musical styles, including singer/songwriters, bluegrass bands, blues artists, and country performers, while also incorporating elements of jazz, the latter an addition that’s proven to be especially popular with our audiences.”
Even so, it’s the overall ambience and atmosphere that lure The Station’s legions of admirers. It maintains a targeted email list comprised of dedicated music enthusiasts that have become loyal patrons over the years. In fact, shows often sell out as soon as they’re announced. The small crowd limit ensures that each show will be an intimate musical experience, one that allows the audience to interact with the artists on and off stage.
“The allure of The Station lies in its intimate, timeless charm that feels worlds away from big-city arenas or crowded bars,” Johnstone continued. “The raw wood interiors resonate like the sound hole of a vintage guitar, while offering a true ‘listening room’ experience. The acoustics are exceptional — according to some, they’re as outstanding or better than many larger venues — allowing the music breathe naturally. There’s a warm, welcoming feeling of hospitality. The vibe is laid-back yet respectful—people mingle easily with performers, strangers become friends, and the focus stays on the artists and the songs. It’s not flashy — it’s authentic Americana in the foothills, a hidden gem that feels like stepping back in time while still being right in your backyard.”
Johnstone also gives the audiences credit for The Station’s success. “What sets it uniquely apart is that genuine sense of connection and community,” he added. “The attentive audience respects the music—without talking over sets—which makes performers feel truly connected and inspired. Many describe it as an extension of a living room, rather than a commercial spot, with talented singer/songwriters and bands delivering varied, high-quality shows in a setting that enhances every note. It’s a place where music feels personal and soulful.
Most agree that the intimacy is part of the appeal. “Audiences tell us they love feeling like they’ve got exclusive access. In their words, “It’s like having a backstage pass to a concert” in a smaller, more personal space. Plus, the historic character of the building draws them in — you can feel the music history in the walls, and the natural acoustics make every performance sound incredible. The artists themselves often comment on how great the old building sounds.”
So too, Johnstone take the time to make everyone feel genuinely welcome, creating a warm, inclusive atmosphere. “Many people bring friends or family, who then become regulars and say they’re surprised they didn’t know about it sooner. Folks often say they’re blessed to have such a special venue nearby. It’s become a treasured local spot that keeps pulling people back.”
Johnstone said that while he’s currently planning for the station’s 12th year, he’s also busy booking shows for both spring and fall dates. “This spring we have The Lucky Losers, a Blues Band from San Francisco. Other spring shows will include some of the station favorites…. Verlon Thompson, Cole Ritter and Lisa Stewart. Our spring season starts on April 11 and runs through the end of June. We are closed in July and August. We start our Fall season in September and close at the end of October. We do an average of 20 shows in the five months we are open for music shows.”
Ticket Prices typically vary from $35 – $75 and shows often sell out as soon as they’re announced.
In addition, Johnstone noted that The Station is open year-round and available for public or private events, including anniversaries, birthday parties, bridal showers, baby showers, and more.
“We’re also excited to partner with The Shady Grove Wedding Chapel to host nostalgic, rustic, country-style weddings for up to 75 guests,” Johnstone announced. “This collaboration helps support the ongoing maintenance, preservation, and upkeep of the historic 1882 church, its community cemetery, and the surrounding property, and keeping this special piece of local history alive for generations to come.”
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