Synopsys
In this episode, we discuss the ins and outs and do's and don'ts of participating in musical open mics / jam sessions.
John and Guy swap hats.
John interviews bass player Hooter, who hosts several open mics in the Phoenix area, to build a list of Jam Session Do's and Don'ts.
Episode Notes
Hooter’s Jam Venues and Dates
Starlite Lounge
Every Monday Night 7pm - 11pm
4346 W Olive Ave, Glendale, AZ 85302
623-934-9910
https://www.facebook.com/starliteloungeaz/
El Dorado Bar and Grill
Beginning October 3rd 2023, every Tuesday Night 7pm – 10pm
8708 E. McDowell Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85257
480-945-2606
http://www.eldorado-bar-grill.com/
The Blooze
Every Wednesday Night 6:30pm – 10:30pm
12014 N 32nd St, Phoenix, AZ 85028
602-788-4574
https://www.facebook.com/events/104478159347170/104478199347166?active_tab=about
John's Helpful Links
- Blues Progressions
- The Nashville Numbering System
- Blues Turn-Arounds
- Blues Endings
That "Blues Progressions" page is excellent and covers almost all the rest of the bullet points.
The "Blues Turn-Arounds" page is neither comprehensive nor a deep dive, but it's a start. Check out that sweet I-VI-II-V turnaround; it is one of my personal faves.
Hooter's Jam Session Do's and Don'ts
1. Keep the volume DOWN!!
Nothing will get an open mic discontinued like volume complaints from patrons (who typically vote with their wallets and their feet) and bartenders who just want to get the drink orders right so they can get tipped.
2. Spend some money in the establishment.
Bar owners are in business for one reason: to make money. If they pay a band to provide live entertainment, they expect that they will be net positive at the end of the night. If not, they'll move on to the next idea.
3. Don’t argue with the host.
This isn't hubris or ego; the host has a thankless job and even the ones that make it look easy have their hands full. They have to try to fit everyone in during the time alloted for the session. They have to try to ensure that people are for their abilities and that there is a bare minimum band up at all times to produce music. They have to navigate personalities, field and address complaints, make sure the audience is having a good time, make sure the bartenders and owners are happy. Don't add to it by giving them lip.
4. If there's a sign-up sheet, sign up as soon as you get there.
5. Leave the bad attitude in the parking lot.
Don't wreck your good time and don't wreck someone else's good time. A jam is EVERYBOD'S time to shine!
6. Singers call the song key for the musicians, not the other way around.
If you're a singer, know what key you want for a song and tell the band. If you play an instrument, the singer decides, not you.
7. Make sure you're tuned up *BEFORE* you go on stage.
8. Always remember: music is not a competitive sport.
Be respectful of your fellow musicians at all times; strive to be the person people *WANT* to play with.
9. If you are using house-provided equipment, treat it as good or better than you treat your own.
An amp is NOT an end table and it's not a chair; find someplace else for your drink and your butt!
10. The golden rule applies to jams just as it does to every other part of your life: treat others as you would like to be treated.
