Contemporary singer Morgan Wallen’s Foundation has donated funds for a new lobby performance space at the Joy of Music school in downtown Knoxville. The city of Knoxville also supported the project, said Mayor Indya Kincannon at the September 30, 2026, ribbon-cutting.

At Joy of Music school, young people receive high-quality music instruction, instruments, mentorship and opportunities to perform, all at no cost to their families. That mission aligns naturally with the Morgan Wallen Foundation’s commitment to creating opportunities for young people through music and sports.

“This new space gives our students even more chances to step in front of an audience, build confidence, take creative risks and experience the joy of sharing music with others,” the nonprofit posted.

Lesli Wallen of the Morgan Wallen Foundation joined Kincannon, Erick Baker and JOMS students, families, teachers and friends to celebrate the opening of Knoxville’s tiniest recital hall.

The Joy of Music school was founded in 1998 by the late James A. Dick, who had owned and operated WIVK Radio and other businesses. Francis “Frank” Graffeo was executive director for 16 years, leaving in 2022 to take a similar post in Chicago. Michael Ray is now the executive director with Ed Sublet as director of operations.

Morgan Wallen, 33, was born in Sneedville, Tennessee, and later moved to Knox County. He graduated from Gibbs High School where he was a pitcher and shortstop for the school’s baseball team. A wrist injury during his senior season kept him from competing in college baseball.

Irvey’s Ice Cream plans Fountain City grand opening

Irvey’s Ice Cream Co. will celebrate the grand opening of its Fountain City shop Friday through Sunday, October 9-11, at 3000 Tazewell Pike. A ribbon-cutting will take place on Friday at 3 p.m. Irvey’s offers 32 flavors including 10 dairy-free options.

Trent Sanders

“Fountain City deserves ice cream,” said Trent Sanders, founder and CEO of Irvey’s. “Ever since the Fountain City Creamery burned down, there’s been a gap here. Fountain City showed up all summer as we parked out in front of the shop to serve ice cream. We’re excited to set down long-term roots in the neighborhood.”

The shop will be open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday. Details here.

National Night Out events today

Several city and county neighborhoods have planned Night Out events for today (10/6/26) with the big one at Urban Wilderness Gateway Park. Co-hosted with the South Knoxville Neighborhood & Business Coalition, the event will run from 5:30-7:30 p.m. and include food trucks, games and more. Stop by to meet your neighbors, KPD officers and other first responders! Details: October 6 Newletter

 Music in the Grove is this Friday

Carolina Bluegrass Style, a high-energy bluegrass fusion band, will entertain at a free concert on Friday, October 9, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. at the Karns Community Center, 7708 Oak Ridge Hwy. Parking is in the back lot of Karns Elementary School. Bring your lawn chair and something for the tip jar.

Notes & Quote

Charlie Austin, president of the Beaver Creek Kayak Club, won the Trailblazer Award from the Sierra Club.

 Carter community will party in the park – The Paschal Carter Park – on Saturday, October 10, 2026, from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. Activities include face painting and a tattoo station, bounce houses, coloring stations, food to buy from Shagbark BBQ and Ham & Goodies, and prizes galore.

Quote: “I got a rebel side in me, but I’m not mean!” — Morgan Wallen

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Sandra Clark compiles obituary links and writes the Let’s Talk series for KnoxTNToday – Let’s Talk – Neighbors archive. Follow KnoxTNToday on Facebook, Instagram, X and LinkedIn. Get daily articles in one place with our free newsletter. Send comments to news@knoxtntoday.com/.