I ❤️ Open Mics

This week I’ve been thinking about Open Mics and how Thankful I am for them. Over 25 years ago, I started going to local Open Mics - specifically every Tuesday at Schmedley’s Pub in Eagleville, CT - where local artists and music aficionados gathered for weekly libations, sing alongs and spoken word.

Once I started traveling for work, my father’s advice was to find a local newspaper & check out the local music scene. It was before the age of “google” so you really had to be resourceful. I used my time wisely & found musicians eager to jam all over the Nation. I’ve sang in dive bars in nowheresville PA, Green Bay WI, St Louis MO, and one night was even recorded for Dave Grohl’s Alley at a little gem called the Erie Kai Tiki Bar just outside of Sandusky OH. Whenever I could, I’d find an Open Mic and wait my turn to sing my heart out, always at the mercy of whatever songs the House Band knew. Mostly I asked for reggae & mostly I could pull off a decent rendition of Stir it Up or No Woman, No Cry. If not , I would sing my three songs a cappella - Mercedes Benz was always an easy crowd favorite.

Fast forward to 2019 and I was still hitting up Open Mics, this time with Bob & an arsenal of our original songs & whoever else we could get to show up. (Speaking of, we just posted ads for musicians for the electric band we are building, if you are interested, hit us up.)

Schmedley’s name changed to Pub 32 & still had sessions every Tuesday. We’d be at Corleone’s on Fridays & Grady’s Tavern on Sunday - always searching for the next scene & next place we could jam.

Open Mics have an acceptance level that is endearing. They allow musicians of all ages & at all stages of their craft to perform to a room of enthusiasts. They give us a venue to try out new material & give music lovers a place to lose themselves.

This week, I’m ever so grateful for the MCs who tirelessly showed up, week after week, to lug out the speakers, set up the Sound & keep everyone on track. I’m grateful for the bar owners who dedicate time for local talent. I’m grateful for the fans who come to support the scene. I’m thankful for every Open Mic, every Open Mind & every Open Heart.