Set across 10 acres in Franklin, Tennessee, just beyond the vibrant heartbeat of Nashville, stands an estate that transcends the idea of a luxury home. Priced at $24 million, this remarkable property is not only a retreat of grand architectural character but also the celebrated Dark Horse Recording Studio, a creative sanctuary where Taylor Swift, Dolly Parton, and countless other music legends have captured their most inspired performances.
A Story of Vision and Transformation
The story of Dark Horse began in the early 1990s when Texas-born musician Robin Crow sought a new path after leaving RCA Records. For just $175,000, he purchased a stretch of rolling pastures along the West Harpeth River. What started as a humble log cabin has grown, over more than three decades, into one of the most distinguished estates in Tennessee real estate.
The estate quickly became a magnet for world-renowned artists. Taylor Swift recorded some of her earliest songs for her debut album here, while Dolly Parton, Neil Diamond, Tim McGraw, and Carrie Underwood all left their mark within its walls. With every track recorded, Dark Horse strengthened its reputation as one of the South’s most respected creative landmarks.
The Manor House: Rustic Grandeur
At the heart of the property lies the Manor House, a sprawling residence of over 14,200 square feet. Designed with Colorado ski-lodge influence, the home blends rugged stonework, soaring timber beams, and expansive glass walls that frame the surrounding natural beauty.
The residence offers seven bedrooms in the main house, along with additional private guest quarters in both the Cottage and the Bungalow Apartment. In total, the estate provides 10 bedrooms and 14 bathrooms. Beyond its living spaces, a party barn, a three-car garage, and a sky bridge that doubles as a game room with a pool table add to the estate’s charm. Each corner reveals warmth and character, from quiet reading alcoves to sunlit rooms overlooking the river.
Dark Horse Studio: A Creative Landmark
Built in 1998, Dark Horse Studio is the estate’s crown jewel. Encompassing nearly 9,000 square feet of post-and-beam architecture, the studio was designed to inspire creativity as much as to deliver world-class sound. Its vaulted ceilings, rustic finishes, and carefully crafted acoustics create a setting where artistry flourishes.
The studio includes state-of-the-art recording rooms, comfortable gathering spaces, and private sleeping quarters for visiting musicians. It has hosted a remarkable roster of talent, from Reba McEntire and Faith Hill to Shawn Mendes and Neil Diamond, who recorded tracks for his album Tennessee Moon here, including a memorable duet with Waylon Jennings.
A Rare Offering in Tennessee Real Estate
Beyond its music legacy, this estate is a private sanctuary. The grounds are defined by rolling meadows, shaded porches, and the serenity of the West Harpeth River, while Nashville’s vibrant cultural and culinary scene is just a short drive away. The balance of seclusion and convenience makes this property one of the most extraordinary offerings on the Tennessee real estate market.
After 31 years of ownership, Robin Crow is ready to begin a new chapter. As he shared, it is bittersweet to part with a place so deeply tied to his family and career, yet the time has come for another visionary to shape the estate’s future.
Conclusion
This $24 million Tennessee estate is more than a luxurious residence; it is a living piece of music history. From Taylor Swift’s early recordings to Dolly Parton’s timeless sessions, Dark Horse Recording Studio has been the setting for unforgettable artistry. For the next owner, it represents not only a prestigious address but also the opportunity to continue a legacy of creativity, elegance, and inspiration.