In 1997, I moved from Hines Creek to attend the University of Calgary. I moved down with a good friend, and we had both started to learn to play guitars.
One night we went to a local coffee shop and watched a local bluesman, Tim Erickson, play a show. He mentioned to us that he hosted a monthly open mic, and that we should come check it out the next day.
I came back the next day and played a set. Looking back, it probably wasn’t a very strong performance, but the coffee shop was full of great musicians who were super encouraging. And then I was hooked.
I went to that same open mic for eight years until it moved locations.
Most months, I prepared new songs because I wanted to impress the more experienced players.
As I got more established, some of those musicians would join me, and I got my first taste of jamming.
When I started writing songs, I would use the open mic to debut them to a crowd.
I eventually joined bands, recorded albums, checked venues off my bucket list and helped start Long Story Records.
I don’t think any of these things would have happened without the “Weeds Cafe” open mic.
Open mics are the step between the basement and the stage.
They also serve as a place to meet other musicians.
Some nights it feels like magic when strangers join each other and make beautiful collaborations.
It is also a treat for fans of music: a night of different artists from many different genres.
We are lucky to have many options in the Peace Country. Here are my 3 favourites:
Heilan Beer House (Fairview)
Full disclosure, I help plan this one. The last Saturday of every month, September through May 6 p.m. to close. Each month, a different host. $5 draft beer and steak nights.
This October, the date will fall on Halloween and costumes are encouraged.
In December, we shift dates and the open mic falls on “The Night Before The Night Before Pyjama Jam” on Dec. 23.
Peace River Brewing (Peace River)
Local artists take turns hosting this open mic.
They usually take place on Saturdays 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., but you can check the schedule at peaceriverbrewing.ca. A great crowd, great beers and food.
Ramona’s Pizza (Grande Prairie)
Hosted by the legendary Justin Menzies, you never know who will walk through the door. Every Tuesday night 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Deals on Tacos.
These three Open Mics are for all ages.
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