How a Huntsville couple’s home became a beloved music venue

If you have an affinity for folk music and call Huntsville home, you might be surprised to learn the city's most intimate music venue isn't a traditional club or bar—it's the basement of Meredith Johnson and Compton McMurry's residence.

The Rise of Common House

Located between Jones Valley and Five Points, the married couple’s home operates as the Common House. The name is a nod to the duo’s folk-pop project, Common Man. Having toured 46 states in their 2009 Honda Odyssey, the pair saw firsthand how vital house shows are for the touring circuit.

"For all of the growth that Huntsville has experienced, the only thing we’re kind of missing is these smaller venues that can accommodate artists that maybe only have a draw of between 30 and 100 people," Johnson said. "So it makes a lot of sense for us on the road, and we just try to provide that same rung on the venue ladder in Huntsville."

A Unique Experience

The basement setting is designed for focus. With an open floor plan, a dedicated rug for performers, and a professional P.A. system, it creates a dedicated listening room atmosphere. The space holds approximately 75 people and maintains a dry, alcohol-free environment, featuring coffee and tea service from local vendor Piper & Leaf.

The booking strategy is intentional: each show features a balanced lineup of one local act and one touring musician. Revenue is split equally between the two performers, with the hosts taking no cut, as they view the project as a service to the creative community.

Tonight’s Stage

The stage is set tonight for Kentucky-born, Nashville-based singer/songwriter Caleb Christopher Edwards. Known for his work on stages like the Grand Ole Opry and the Telluride Bluegrass Festival, Edwards brings his latest folk-bluegrass project, "Hoosierman Volume II," to the basement. Huntsville acoustic trio Poor Rover opens the night, with tickets available via eventbrite.com.

Community and Support

Since launching in 2021, Common House has hosted acts like the Burney Sisters. The neighborhood has been surprisingly receptive, with neighbors sometimes offering up their driveways for parking or dropping in for the music.

City support has also been a major boon. The Huntsville Music Office provides funding that covers essential costs like artist meals and sound equipment. Huntsville Music Officer Matt Mandrella emphasizes that these shows are vital for career development, allowing artists to play for highly engaged, attentive audiences.

The Broader D.I.Y. Network

The D.I.Y. culture in Huntsville extends beyond Common House. Another significant hub has been the west Huntsville home Boardman, owned by guitarist Aaron Anderson. While taking a hiatus this year, the space previously hosted acts like Camping in Alaska and Jay Burgess. Local musician Jerome Villarreal Jr. captures the essence of the scene perfectly: "The artists are tangible, they’re touchable. Their sweat falls on you if you’re too close."

From the city-wide Porch Fest Five Points to the intimate Porchlight Sessions, the local scene continues to thrive. Whether you are catching a show at the Orion Amphitheater or sitting in a living room, it's clear the spirit of live music in the 205 is stronger than ever.