If you are anything like me, you might think it is impossible to be a professional singer/songwriter or aspiring musician in the OKC metro area. I mean, we only hear about artists making it in the big leagues about every 5 to 10 years. OKC is expanding, growing and doing more for their musicians than ever. OKC is entering into a new era of live music and entertainment. If you are wanting to get some exposure and introduce yourself to the rising music scene in Oklahoma City, this guide just might help you find the perfect place to get past your stage fright or just find a fun environment to perform. Here are 5 of my favorite spots that offer open mic nights.
The Paramount Room
1st Wednesday of every month at 7:00
Let’s start out on Film Row. This may be one of the biggest open mic scenes in OKC today. With the support of returning fans, locals, and new faces, the Paramount offers a genuinely fun experience for their performers. If you are a singer/songwriter who wants to start sharing your work with people who love hearing new and exciting music, this may be the perfect inviting place to get started.
VZD’s Restaurant and Bar
Every Wednesday starting at 9:00
Would you say that your music style is a bit “out there”? I think it’s safe to say that most people are looking for authenticity in every singer, band, or artist. Be proud that you have a unique style that is totally accepted at VZD’s. The crowd is very inviting and welcomes new faces and fresh talents vulnerable enough to put themselves out there. If you are passionate about your talent, this may be a great place to get on stage and share that passion in a friendly, welcoming environment. (Also, I hear that Joe the sound guy is the best in OKC. He makes everyone sound like a pro!)
Hubbly Bubbly Hookah Bar
First Monday of every month at 8:30
Maybe you still aren’t totally convinced that you’re ready or confident enough to get on stage and overcome your stage fright. Or maybe I just haven’t convinced you how awesome these opportunities are for YOU. Hubbly Bubbly Hookah Bar offers a stage that is open and safe for all different talents. With dimly lit lights and a comfy atmosphere, Hubbly Bubbly is a really fun place to perform on open mic nights! Anyone from comedians, to bands, to solo artists, and rappers are welcome. The crowd is very engaged and gives their best efforts to encourage and support the performers who may be a bit timid and shy. Would you say that describes you? No judgement exists here! You will be surrounded by kind people who are excited to hear new talents. Check out open mic night at Hubbly Bubbly if you are searching for a pretty cool time.
Sauced on Paceo
Every Tuesday at 7:30
If you are more confident or maybe have a little more experience, Sauced will be the perfect venue for open mic. Grab your instruments and practice some covers or perfect your originals because Sauced picks performers from the Tuesday open mic nights to come back to preform on Thursdays. This is perfect for those of you looking to further your music career in a laid back environment, surrounded by people who love pizza and music. What stands out the most at Sauced is the ambient lighting and the relaxed patio scene. Oh yeah, and their pizza is delicious so tell your friends to come grab a slice and hear you rock out on stage.
JJ’s Alley Bricktown Pub
Every Sunday at 8:30
To wrap up the Open Mic scenes in OKC, let’s finish at JJ’s Alley. While all the places on this list offer open mic, music is JJ’s Alley’s primary focus. People who visit JJ’s Alley are coming specifically for the entertainment. If you chose to make this your next gig, you can expect the audience to be very engaged with your performance. This creates a great opportunity to perform under a little bit of pressure. Also, JJ’s Alley offers $3 pizza slices along with some of the best mixed drinks in OKC.
Honorable Mentions:
Hollywood Corners
Every Monday Night 7:00-10:00
Our first honorable mention is the one and only Hollywood Corners. Since Hollywood Corners recently revamped their restaurant, they have become the hip, new place for live music and family-friendly events. What makes this place so unique is that they have a huge outdoor stage for musicians to perform shows nearly every night. Oh, and did I mention that there’s a possibility of running into Toby Keith? How cool would it be to perform Open Mic on Mondays and look into the crowd to see Toby Keith listening to your performance? If you are looking for a place to start singing in front of live audiences but you aren’t quite sure where to start, this honorable mention just might be the place to begin pursuing your passions and dreams.
The Deli
First Wednesday of the month
For our final Open Mic destination, let’s go to one of the oldest bars on campus corner, The Deli. Opened in 1973, this iconic bar is the only of its kind in Norman, offering live music 7 days a week. You are guaranteed a warm and welcoming environment here because The Deli prides themself on supporting local musicians and artists. With such an attentive and encouraging audience, you can’t go wrong choosing The Deli. Local musician Jarvix hosts open mic nights the First Wednesday night of every month, so be sure to check it out as you start on this new and exciting journey. Also, huge shout out to Jarvix for his helpful insight into the open mic scene in the OKC Metro area!
Open Mic nights are a great way to kickstart your singing career if you want to perform in front of people but don’t know where to begin. Audiences at open mic nights just want to be captivated by authenticity and rawness, so don’t be afraid to share your talents and heart with them! Their response might surprise you. Remember, you can do anything you set your mind to, and if singing is something you’re passionate about pursuing, there is no better time to take advantage of your gift than now. Life is short, so have some fun and let the good times roll.