Best Open Mic Music Venues in Los Angeles
When it comes to making a name for yourself in the entertainment industry, it takes almost as much luck as it does talent to just get your foot in the door. But Los Angeles is the city of opportunity for more than just actors. Artists and performers of all kinds flock to LA in the hopes of getting discovered. Being in the right place at the right time helps, and one way that can be accomplished is with open mic nights. So if you have a song, comedy routine or passionate spoken word piece, check out these places for the best open mics.
The Dresden
1760 N. Vermont Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90027
(323) 665-4294
www.thedresden.com
The Dresden is an iconic Hollywood staple of the neighborhood and home to the famous Marty and Elayne. The lounge's permanent duo has been entertaining people with their live performances since 1982. Bringing their flavor of cover songs that range from Frank Sinatra to Britney Spears to Dresden diners five nights a week. Open mic nights are Tuesdays, so bring your instrument of choice or bring your sheet music and allow Marty and Elayne to accompany you while you sing for a packed house.
The Cork Lounge
Corky's Restaurant & Lounge
5043 Van Nuys Blvd.
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
(818) 788-5110
www.corkysla.com
At Sherman Oaks' Cork Lounge, Tuesday nights mean it's time for some great open mic events. All types of acts are welcomed to perform, and some nights the venue turns into an unexpected variety show. From poetry to song to instrumental to comedy, The Cork Lounge opens the stage to anyone with the courage to get on it. Open mic starts at the end of happy hour, which can work for or against you, so make sure you bring your A-game. If you happen to stop by on a Wednesday, be ready for some other great entertainment as it puts on some of the best comedy acts.
The Baked Potato
3787 Cahuenga Blvd.
Studio City, CA 91604
(818) 980-1615
www.thebakedpotato.com
The Baked Potato, or The Spud as regulars call it, is more of an impromptu open mic venue. Scheduled jazz and blues performers play throughout the week. Open mic opportunities come after their set if it doesn't run long. You can jam with a couple members of the band, if they're willing, or do your thing on your own. The best night to do your thing is Mondays. The rest of the week it's a great place to meet people in the music industry like touring bands and music producers. The Baked Potato has also launched the careers of people like Al Jarreau, Kenny G and Lee Ritenour. It's also where celebs like Robert De Niro, Andy Garcia and Lucy Liu go to catch some great jazz when in town.
Cafe Brass Monkey
3440 Wilshire Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90005
(213) 381-7047
www.cafebrassmonkey.com
Looking for a small but cool venue to get your stage legs? The Cafe Brass Monkey in the fabulous Koreatown holds an acoustic open mic every Sunday. Grab your guitar and head to Cafe Brass Monkey to sing and play covers or originals for a relatively friendly crowd. Open mic is from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. with a first0-come kind of thing as they open at 4 p.m. Or secure your spot on stage by calling during the week and asking for Tom. And don't worry if you don't have a guitar. Arrangements can be made and many other performers are happy to sit in and play for you if it's a cover.
The Lexington Bar
129 E. 3rd St.
Los Angeles, CA 90013
(213) 291-5723
www.thelexingtonbar.com
Many famous entertainers speak of humble beginnings and of playing “hole in the wall” venues for handfuls of people. Well, The Lexington Bar could be part of your humble beginning. Hosting open mic six nights a week with a different genre and host each night, you can easily find your niche and the right night to do your thing. The crowds can be small but they tend to be more forgiving than most places. Show and sign-up times vary, so check the website for details. The bar serves beer and wine only, but $4 drafts during happy hour might help your performance go a little better.
