One of the best songwriter nights here in the Cleveland area is called the 10x3, where there are 10 slots of 20 minutes each. The requirement is that 2 of the 3 songs must be original, and most of the performers do 3 originals. The host goes on in the last slot at 11pm, and he usually does 3 like everybody else did. I haven't been there in a while but it is popular to the point where there is a waiting list for a slot. The more seasoned area people get the later slots, the newbies get the earlier slot. As you participate more often, you can get a later slot. Also the better known area people get priority for later slots. It usually doesn't matter because the crowd comes in early and stays for the whole event. I did it once and as a first timer I got the 3rd slot, 8:40 to 9. Did my 3 songs and then hung around to hear everybody else. It's a good night of music and a good night of community among the players. I really should go more.