Originally Posted By: Notes Norton
I boycott any commercial establishment that hosts an 'open mic' night and IMHO exploits musicians 24/7. They will never-ever get a penny from me.

I have been to and played several open mics and my impression is they are there to give newbies a chance to get on stage and get some practice. Usually they are on an off night so the only crowd is the other players waiting their turn to play! Most of these same bars have paid acts on the busier nights. Seems like a win-win to me. No one is coming to the bar on an off night so the bar opens the stage to anyone who wants to get up there. The bar sells a few drinks on an off night and the noobs get some stage time.