I wish I had started going to more events sooner. I’ve been playing since '92, starting as a teen. The crowd was welcoming, and I met several musicians, got invited to some jam sessions, and learned about other open mics.
I wasn’t sure what I was going to play! I just improvised most of it anyway. I hadn’t been playing for too long when I finished, and a guy said, “That’s it?!” But I did receive 4-5 compliments on my playing, which was cool. I didn’t sing at all—everyone else did—but I stuck to my bluesy prog rock style.
That’s awesome, man! I always freeze up at open mics, especially if I haven’t planned anything out. But sounds like the improv worked for you. What’s your setup like? Amp, pedals?
Dude, I love that raw approach to playing! Some of the best stuff comes from just letting it flow. I’ve been to open mics where people rehearse so much that they lose that spontaneity. Gotta keep it loose!
Exactly, man! Music is supposed to be alive, not robotic. I’ve done both—rehearsed to death and totally winged it—and I feel like people connect more when you’re in the moment. By the way, what kind of jam sessions did you get invited to? Always looking to link up with more players.
Open mics are such a cool way to meet other musicians. That’s how I met my current bandmates. And it’s funny you mention not singing—I do the same! I’ll play guitar all day, but as soon as it comes to vocals, I’m like, “Nah, I’ll leave that to someone else.” Did it feel weird being the only one not singing?
You got 4-5 compliments, so clearly people were feeling it! I’ve seen plenty of players who don’t sing but still totally command the stage with their instrument. It’s about presence, and sounds like you nailed it. What kind of improv do you usually do—structured like solos or more freeform?
Thanks! Yeah, improv is my comfort zone. For gear, I keep it simple. Right now, I’ve got a Fender Strat and run it through a Boss Blues Driver, a delay pedal, and then into a Marshall amp. Nothing too crazy, but it gets the job done for that crunchy bluesy tone.
Totally agree! Yeah, the jam sessions were just with some guys from the open mic. One’s a drummer and the other is a bassist. They’re into a mix of classic rock and some funk. Should be interesting to see how my bluesy prog style fits in with that. I’m looking forward to it though—nothing beats a good jam!
Did it feel weird being the only one not singing?