Ever wonder why many singers attend open mics? What’s the attraction? They place their name on a list, pay the same cover charge the audience member pays, and wait to be called to the bandstand. At most venues, the singer gets to sing two songs – often with experienced musicians capable of transposing the music they brought along into their key. There are two such open mics that I frequent; Trumpets Jazz Vocal Jam in Montclair and the Crossroads Jazz Jam in Garfield. The Trumpets Vocal Jam, hosted by Betty Liste and her trio, is offered the last Thursday of each month (check their calendar for dates). For a small cover charge you can be entertained for the evening by vocalists of all experience levels. The Crossroads Jazz Jam is offered every Tuesday and hosted by my NJJS colleague, WGBO’s Stan Meyers. Both these open mics attract a diverse audience, and they appreciate talent when they hear it. Like any audience, they seek that little spark, that little something to thrill them, to bring them joy. That’s what good music does.
I’ve participated in many open mics over the years and even hosted a singer’s showcase at the now-closed Eighty Eights in Rahway. I’ve heard singers with no talent, and others who have knocked my socks off. That’s the chance you take when attending an open mic. I appreciate them all, largely because I know what it feels like to want to sing. The most common statement I hear from people is “I always wanted to sing,” or “I wish I was able to sing.” I get it – it is thrilling and audience members enjoy the variety and skill level of the singers at an open mic. It’s like a talent show. Audiences are smart and they know talent when they see it.
There are different kinds of singers who attend open mics and I’ll do my best to describe them here. The un-singer [this is my term] is one that has little ability, no pitch or sense of rhythm and should just stay away from singing altogether. I don’t fault the un-singer from wanting so badly to sing. I admit, it’s a driving force to want to be a storyteller, to be heard, to emote, to say it all with a song – but the un-singer should stick to the shower. Sure, over time, some improve. But let’s be frank – if you don’t have the goods, no one buys.
Then there’s the amateur singer. This is one who has an innate ability and a deep rooted desire to be a singer. Some can deliver a song with no particular emphasis on the lyric, timing, and phrasing, and with training and coaching, could do well to develop a repertoire, find an audience and sing! I find these singers a real treat, as they have so much potential. And once in a while, you’ll be surprised by a singer who has it all but is infrequently singing for one reason or another. Some amateur singers work hard at finding open mics and singing, but many don’t believe they need training, coaching, or rehearsing. I’ve got news for them. The most experienced singers still require tune ups and maintenance and repairs, just like a car. Consistent polishing of the craft is required! Like most things, if you fail to use it, you can lose it. And, there’s always more to learn.
Finally, there are the professional singers – who drop in at an open mic to work a new tune, market a new show, and meet other musicians, songwriters and singers with whom to network, or maybe they want to play with a particular musician who’s in the house. The professional singer will always show respect and support of his/her fellow singers, because we have an appreciation for what it takes to be a singer.
There are few places today where a singer can work out, and open mics offer a real value. For the un-singer, perhaps it’s a place to contrast and compare, providing a musical place in which to belong. For the amateur singer, it clearly is a place to work on polishing their craft. And for the professional singer, it serves as a place to work out. Regardless of a singer’s experience level, the open-mic serves as a place where a singer can spend a few minutes embraced by the spotlight, for however long the song lasts, followed by the applause they can feel right down to their toes.
So the next time you hear a vocalist, don’t forget to applaud!
Laura Hull is a vocalist and music consultant serving the tri-state area. Visit her on the web: www.LauraHull.com
Tags: jazz vocal, Laura Hull, open mics, singers, unsingers, vocal jams, yours for a song
