Some say that the free-spirited soul of San Francisco is dead, but I disagree. Brave artists perform at open-mic nights throughout San Francisco every single evening. In preparation for writing this article, I went to an open-mic every night of the week, and I must say that it opened my eyes to another city subculture and also taught me a few things: 1) there is definitely an open-mic “circuit” in the city. I saw repeat offenders at several venues; 2) it’s impossible to review open mics on “talent” because they wildly vary (however, anyone who is brave enough to perform is a star in my book); 3) I wish I were brave enough to sing onstage.
Monday: The Utah
Covers and originals
The dark-saloon ambiance of the Utah is the perfect place for brooding artists to showcase or see true talent. From performers doing piano covers to people singing original songs with a guitar, the Utah welcomes it all to their stage. If you become a regular, you can eventually earn a 30-minute set.
Tuesday: Ireland’s 32
9:00 p.m.
Aren’t all Irish pubs meant for singing? Ireland’s 32 is a casual place to go to be heard or just have a pint. Ireland’s sets the mood with a stage, a piano and a fireplace, and welcomes everyone, from solo artists to bands. The mic opens at 9:00 p.m., with a featured set at 10:00 p.m. They also serve food till the wee hours.
Wednesday: Neck of the Woods
Covers or originals
Come in, sign up and take the stage in this dark concert venue. Neck of the Woods gives performers the chance to bask in the limelight on their raised stage. The bar and club-like space gives off a NOLA live-music-venue vibe.
Thursday: Bazaar Cafe
Originals only
Coffee shops that serve booze are the best. The Bazaar Cafe has been serving comfort food since 1998, and the space has as much character as those who come to perform in it. This is a safe space in which to perform among fellow open mic-ers, who may eventually become friends. It’s casual — there is no mic or amp system — but they do have loaner guitars and a piano.
Friday: Cafe International
Originals only
Hosted by Clyde Always and Haylee the Ukulele, this is not just a sing-along but is also an outlet for those looking to share and perform original work — whether it be poetry, music or comedy. This Haight coffee shop also serves beer and wine and is a good Friday-night option for dinner and a “show.”
Saturday: Martuni’s
Beloved piano bar
The last time I sang solo in front of an audience was in my second-grade talent show. I sang “The Sun Will Come Out Tomorrow” from Annie, and I brought down the house (until my nerves got the best of me.) If your Broadway dreams were also dashed at a young age, or if you just enjoy a good martini and a sing-a-long, Martuni’s is for you. It caters to the after-theater crowd. Patrons gather around the piano in the back room and take turns suggesting a song and then sing along.
The bustle of the bar provides a no-pressure atmosphere for performing. In fact, it’s the kind of supportive atmosphere you’d expect from a high school theater class. This place tickles the black-and-white keys every night after 9:00 p.m. They also have comedy on Tuesdays and opera on Wednesdays.
Sunday: Madrone
Originals and covers (starting at 4:00 p.m.)
This epic art bar is an alternative to whatever sports game is on. The mic opens up at 4:00 p.m. and is a great way to indulge in a little live music and great libations. It’s a solid way to end the weekend.
All photos courtesy of the author unless otherwise noted.
