Musicians: Anyone play at open mic?

[Airman1270 0]

Solo? Bands? Pickup bands? Details?






Or maybe I'm the only one. Whatever.

Cheers,
Jon S.

[kawisixer01 0]

I've played drums since I was five. Took every band class possible in school, traveled with a marching band for a couple years in high school. Then played in a band with some buddies for awhile. I really wish I had the time to still be playing with a band but just don't anymore, I work second shift. Once in awhile I drop in and play with a local blues/rock band on open mic nights.

[AggieDave 6]

A few years ago I would play at some local open mic nights. Solo, just me and a guitar. It was fun. At least I really enjoyed it. The problem is I'm a mediocre guitar play and an even worst singer.

--"When I die, may I be surrounded by scattered chrome and burning gasoline."

[slotperfect 7]

I have a friend that owns a local coffee bar, and she hosts open mic nigh twice a month. My two friends and I that are trying to play out regularly have performed there about four times - three open mics and one gig (we have another gig there in a couple of weeks). They are very different events - music from soup to nuts. Some good, some bad (guitars out of tune, voices off key, etc.) but you will always be surprised by someone that you will enjoy.

Twice our appearance at open mic turned into a jam . . . one guy who brought percssion instruments played with us on a couple of songs which was great. Another time we meshed with pieces of two other bands to play CSN&Y's "O-H-I-O." The bass player was rocking back and forth and looking atme with a grin singing the backing vocal: "four dead in Ohio.' It was fun.

In our previous band (a bit larger), we were without a drummer one night and another band member's friend joined us without ever having played with us before. He did great and made our night even cooler. Another time our bass player was double-booked, so our guitarist walked through all the songs the night before our gig with a guitarist who plays bass as a second instrument - he was outstanding. Spontanaeity and music go well together.

Arrive Safely

John

[Airman1270 0]

Been doing it on & off for years, usually solo/acoustic. Last summer began playing at a nearby bar & started bringing a friend along who plays excellent electric. At times we grab some others and just fly, and it almost always works. Recently I grabbed bass & drums on the spot for a pretty good version of Zeppelin's "Gallows Pole." Other mostly unrehearsed successes include "Listen to the Music," "Baker Street," "You're No Good," "You're So Vain," "Do It Again," "Hey Nineteen," and "LA Woman." We're currently working on, and almost have down, Zep's "Since I've Been Loving You" and "Locomotive Breath." I've worked out the piano intro on the guitar and we know a flute player who may/may not be available.

I've played in kick-ass church bands for ten years, but have always wanted to play in front of drunk people. Finally got my wish during "LA Woman" as a drunk Eastern European danced in front of the stage, pumping his fist and playing air guitar. Years ago I was that guy. Until now nobody's done it for me. Old guys rock.

Cheers,
Jon S.