I played my first proper open mic night tonight. It went really well. I've performed plenty of times before but only once before with my voice and that was very drunken, impromptu and without a mic/PA. I was initially most worried about hearing myself through the setup and whether something might somehow make me sing out of tune, but it all went well. As soon as I started I settled in straight away and played 3 songs. Alice in Chains - Nutshell, Davey Matthews - Anji, and Nick Drake - Things Behind The Sun. I had some coursemates and a guy I'd met a few nights back (who did some spoken word) there and they enjoyed it. The guy who runs the night seemed genuinely enthused over my set and I got invited back to do a separate half hour slot one night, once I have enough material of course. The icing on the cake was when an older gentlemen, who was apparently initially mildly annoyed I was nipping in before his planned 20 minute set, came over and shook my hand. He said I'd "got him interested" and was pleased with my choice of Nick Drake.
I'm actually listening to Nick Drake as I am reading this, his song Bryter Later. I just found out about him through the latest 99% Invisible podcast. thenewgreen, I think you'll like his music, he's an amazing guitarist.
Thank you, I've been a Nick Drake fan for many years. Glad to know that you've discovered him. His music is a treasure and his story is a sad one.
Yeah, Nick Drake really is incredible. His lyrics touch that sense of melancholy with such eloquence. When combined with the fantastic guitar playing and composition, not much compares. I'd say my favourite songs are the album version of Three Hours, Day is Done, and the one I played at the night.
Congratulations, I know how hard it is to put yourself out there, especially the first time. Keep putting yourself out there and good things will happen. I'll catch you on your North American tour!
Please do, you're a really good musician. I look forward to hearing more from you. I've really liked the stuff you've added to the #originalmusicproject, especially Someone to Hurt. That is still a favorite of mine.