Matt welcomes Jake Hawkes to The Open Mic Room. The conversation delves into the significance of open mic nights as a platform for artist development and the therapeutic role of music in mental health. It also explores Jake Hawkes' music, the story behind his song 'Googly Eyes', and his identity and stage name, Dunce Cap Jack. The conversation delves into the songwriting process, inspiration, and the interplay between music and lyrics. It explores the creation of songs on the spot, the analysis of song lyrics, and the engagement of the audience with songs. Additionally, it touches on unexplored aspects of music and the process of engaging the audience with songs.Takeaways* Open mic nights as a platform for artist development* The therapeutic and supportive role of music in mental health Songwriting process* Music first or lyrics firstChapters* 00:00 Introduction to Open Mic Room Podcast* 18:03 Exploring Jake Hawkes' Music* 30:01 The Story Behind 'Googly Eyes'* 37:01 Identity and Stage Name* 42:36 Melody and Structure in Songwriting* 51:19 Engaging the Audience with Songs