The pandemic has had a severe impact on almost all public gatherings. Open mics are no exception.

I assume this downward trend started to happen way before the pandemic. I also believe these live musical gatherings happen very differently depending on the city and the local culture.

For many years, "open mics" tended to be pretty restrictive depending on the venue. You could only play "certain" styles of music. Hardcore traditional blues in Houston, Texas, for example. The exception to that was The Baked Potato in LA. That place attracted many professional players so it was possible to play almost anything.

Not too long ago, I played here in Miami...it was OK...nothing to write about. I happened to be in South Carolina last week and played a couple of songs in a small venue. That was fun.

There are many reasons to go to an open mic. We used to go to meet other musicians and also be seen. The experiences ran the gamut from a train wreck to super engaging. It also used to be where new musicians could experience being on stage for the first time. If they were lucky, people were supportive of that.

I also assume the general polarization happening in this country has a negative effect on live music venues of all types.

Billy

“Amazing! I’ll be working with Jaco Pastorius, Charlie Parker, Art Tatum, and Buddy Rich, and you’re telling me it’s not that great of a gig?
“Well…” Saint Peter, hesitated, “God’s got this girlfriend who thinks she can sing…”