Open Mic Nights

inlet13

Where I live, a number of bars have these to showcase and book talent. I'd like to get paid for this at night, since I love music and I have a kid on the way. But, I've never done a open mic before, and I'm quite nervous to play in front of people who will actually be listening.

So, on that note, I'll toss out a couple questions...

1. If you are allowed 3 to 4 songs,... how many covers (if any) would you play? How many originals? Do you advise all upbeat songs or should you toss in a ballad?

2. If you've gone to one of these before, does anyone ever show up solo? Meaning, my wife is pregnant, she probably doesn't want to go out to this... would it be weird to go solo or should I try to bring a friend along since it's my first time?

mfc2006

i've played a ton of these & many of them i played solo. it's a different experience when you don't know anyone in the crowd. i 'm usually a little less nervous if that's the case. as far as covers go, i'd play maybe one cover & the rest would be originals. i usually played newer originals to test them out & see if they had legs. as far as ballads v. faster songs, that's up to you! the whole set is up to you! you have 20 minutes or whatever to play what you want. if you want to do all covers, all ballads or all thrash punk (if that's your thing), go for it & have fun! i would suggest that you throw in one song that may be different from the others to mix it up a bit. it shows off your range & creativity. the main thing is to just have fun. good luck!

keeponrockin

I usually do 3 originals and 1 cover, or 2 and 2... Do what you want, have fun, banter a bit... I LOVE playing originals, especially ones I'm getting ready to do in full band form. Honestly, I was nervous for my first, but it's a blast!

ScrapeMySky

I'd say it all depends on how you'd like to be seen. You could do all originals and see how people react, or you could play it safe with covers you know people like.
1. I'd probably play one at the most. but that depends on what you intend to play. If you're planning to to well known songs, I'd say most of the time less is more. With 'B-side' covers you might get away with one more.
But that's my pesonal view... I'd always prefer people liking my own stuff over them loving a cover.
2. People do show up solo. But if it's your first, you might want to take someone. I always think it's great to share experiences such as this and if you take someone who knows a thing or two about music and playing live, there might even be the chance of productive criticism.
But again, that's all personal and you should go with what you think might feel the most comfortable with.
Most of all HAVE FUN!

keeponrockin

Also, I almost prefer to do it solo, then you get honest feedback!

juan lester

i got first open mike ever next sunday. just hoping to not shit myself