HoustonOpenMic.com
Updated 12/21/2011. We can't force venues tell us they have cancelled, so always call first.
If you know of an open mic that has has closed, we pay for that information.

 
The 19th Hole
Thursdays
202 Sawdust Road
Host: Dan Workman

 

PLAYER REVIEWS - send your constructive comments to tc@tcsmythe.com
FROM THE VENUE -
This jam is in it's 13th year.  Huge stage, Monster house PA. No Acoustic or head banging metal. please. Our audience ranges from 21-100. Weekly get-together with a different guitarist/guest host each week. All A-list players.

Blanco's
Wednesdays
3401 W. Alabama
Host: Chris Cook

 

PLAYER REVIEWS - send your constructive comments to tc@tcsmythe.com
FROM THE HOST - CHRIS COOK
Our web sight is www.houstonredneck.com we also have a Blancos facebook page. Our open mic will always have a host band play from 8:00-9:45. Then we start our open mic. Blancos has always been known as a "honkytonk" that has a dance floor, although a small one. We are open Wed. Thurs. and Fri. nights with live music every night and are closed on Sat. We try to keep it country. If you are an acoustic-only singer song writer you get 2 songs with the crowd/host opting for a 3rd. If you are playing with your band or a band of guys there you get 3 songs with the crowd/host opting for a 4th. We like originals but its not a must, just come play and meet other people

Crescent Moon Wine Bar
Wednesdays
440 Rayford Road 
Host: Danny Everritt
713-527-6100

PLAYER REVIEWS - send your constructive comments to tc@tcsmythe.com
FROM PLAYER P. PARSONS
My favorite venue, by far, is the Crescent Moon Wine Bar. The food is excellent, the atmosphere is really comfortable and high class. I have been several times, and the quality of the music is outstanding. Everything was handled in an extremely professional manner and I believe all the guests enjoyed themselves as much as I did.
 
FROM PLAYER - MONTE TUCKER
I have really enjoyed the venue. I do not get to come as often as I like to conflicting schedules. I have also sent multiple people there for both food and to play. Great venue and if it gets slow we get to hear one of Texas best local artist, Danny Everitt
 
FROM PRODUCER - JEFF MORELAND
While not a player, as a music industry producer and talent buyer the Crescent Moon Wine Bar is one my favorite venues to come and listen to up and coming talent. It allows me an opportunity to come, sit, listen and focus on the music without the noise and smoke of other places. Additionally the food and great wines are very enjoyable too. Danny Everitt handles all of the host duties so smoothly and professionally he always seems to do such a great job of bringing out great talent, encouraging them and making them feel at ease, I can always count on seeing them at their best. Again we always enjoy our Wednesday at Moonlight
 
FROM PLAYER - BOB BRIDGES
nice venue, I have played there with bands a couple of times and enjoy going there to do the open mic thing when I can get out there from Baytown. danny is a great host and keeps things moving at along at a smooth pace. The sound id great and the people responsive and friendly.
 
FROM PLAYER BRAD BOYER
Danny Everitt is a fine songwriter and gracious human. You should keep this open mic going forever
 
FROM PLAYER - RICH ROSE
Crescent Moon open mic is great. Danny Everritt is the host, and makes everyone feel like a star no matter what level you are at. He is a very talented songwriter and performer himself, and he has a following of great people who love to play their music. If Danny Everritt is the host you know it's going to be great. Crescent Moon is a really nice, comfortable, 'classy' place that feels right for all ages.
 
FROM PLAYER - LISA SERICE
This is an amazing open mic! Danny is incredibly warm, welcoming, and supportive. Patrons are open to a variety of genres and are gracious listeners; making it the perfect venue to play original tunes or covers! The restaurant itself has a cool vibe with a great atmosphere making the artist feel right at home...literally. It's cozy and intimate. To top it all off, the food and beverages are delicious! I love playing here!
 
FROM PLAYER LESLIE BALEW
The Crescent Moon Open Mic is a 5 star event in every way- Atmosphere, food, entertainers, staff and of course---a fantastic host, Danny Everritt. I am grateful for the wonderful opportunity the Crescent Moon provided me and other performers.-Thanks for providing the North corridor with an outstanding supportive live music venue. I especially want to thank Danny Everritt for the coaching, encouragement and patience which gave me the confidence and helped me improve my live performances each week. Like a box of Chocolate - you don't know what you’re going to get-at the Moon's Open Mic; but for me, it is always GODIVA Grade Chocolate- for the “Crème de la Crème” show up every Wed. night. I hate to see the Crescent Moon Night end, because it is a true gem-a spectacular way to spend Wed. night. I so looked forward to listening to the consummate talent that graced the stage at the Moon- I was never disappointed, rather in constant awe each week. Watching Danny perform is always a privilege-he is a phenomenal artist- singer, songwriter - a true poetic songster. I have learned so much from listening and watching his performance. Thanks Danny for hosting the Open Mic. I only wish I had come out three years ago. God Bless... Leslie Ballew
FROM CUSTOMER, DAN GUERRA
I love this place. The MC, a player/songwriter (Danny Everitt) is fantastic and very helpful to the players and the guests (like me) love him. The food is excellent and I go for the wine and the music. Watching the locals (of all ages, especially the high school kids) is great fun. I was surprised how good they are on stage.
 
FROM DAVID GAVITO - CUSTOMER
This is a great venue for all kinds of music and all kinds of talent. The open mic concept really works well here. The food, the ambience, even the iced tea is killer
 
FROM PLAYER - ANDI RENFREE
What a wonderful Open Mike night! Danny Everitt is a consummate professional and makes it easy to relax and play your songs knowing that he's got your back. This is one of our favorites to attend! The food is superb and the atmosphere is intimate and warm.
 
FROM PLAYER - JOE HILL
Really nice place to play or listen. Starts w/Danny. A great entertainer and host. The setting, sound, food, and drink are first class. Best of all...it's 5 minutes from my house. The musicians that show up to play are a fine group of writers, singers, and players. I know what I%27m doing on Wednesday nights.
 
FROM PLAYER - JOE GAVITO
As a player, I can't speak enough about Danny Everitt and his open mic Wednesday nights at the Moon. All that talent signing up to perform makes for a very entertaining evening. DE keeps it running smoothly and sounding good. The Moon has recently upgraded their sound system, too, and that really makes a difference. As a customer, the burgers are a killer, but my favorite is the Salmon....Great stuff!
 
FROM PLAYER - BRYCE YOUNG
An uncommonly casual jazz-lounge feel. Not only is the music fantastic, but the artists who get up there and perform it are having fun and being themselves. Their energy spreads throughout the restaurant, making for a fun-loving, good-humored crowd and a very cheerful yet mellow atmosphere...best complimented by a nice Chardonnay
 
FROM PLAYER - JOHN DOBELMAN
I love the Crescent Moon Wine Bar open mic hosted by Danny Everitt. It's the opposite of the dives you usually have to play. Wonderful support with Danny at the mixer, acoustics, food, of course wine, and a very friendly crowd most of the time. Its a pleasure to play this venue, and plus you get to keep up with Danny's work on a weekly basis! He tries to fit everyone in, but allow them enough time to get settled.
 
FROM PLAYER - RAY SAUTER
Danny, it was a pleasure meeting you last night! Great atmosphere for live acoustic music and excellent music! I will definitely be back with my guitar and get my name on the list!

Thursdays
West side
The First Tee
12589 Whittington
Host: Rusty Winz   

 

PLAYER REVIEWS - send your constructive comments to tc@tcsmythe.com
FROM HOST - RUSTY WINZ
The First Tee has an ample raised stage with seating that accomodates watching performers. The Open Mic offers a full PA with 2 microphones, instrument cables, guitar tuner, stage monitor, and lights. A Djembe and a house guitar are also on hand. We have an 8 channel powered mixer so we can accommodate small combos. We ask that you not bring large guitar amps or drum kits.
 
The Open Mic format is Acoustic Music, 3 songs, 15 minute maximum. Sign up is in person on a first come first served basis. All styles of music and all levels of playing are welcome. We do ask that you select music that is appropriate and acceptable for the audience. *This is not Karaoke. You must have your own live instrumentation or sing A Capella. *This is not a Band Jam. We have some great jams break out, but we do not provide a back line and do not allow drum kits or large electric guitar amps. *This is not a Comedy Open Mic. We love a good joke though. Let's have a drink and share some.
FROM PLAYER - TC SMYTHE
I've been a fan of Rusty's open mics for some time. We have alot of friends in common, and he loves to send players around to different open mics. he's doing what is good for the community, and the respect he shows the players is creating a ripple effect through our world. Oh yeah - And he's a fine harp player too, just don't tell him I said so :)
 
FROM PLAYER - HOGMIRE
I’ve attended as listener and player with enjoyable results. Place to try out some original material but covers always welcome. Rusty attempts to tweak the sound to aid in making everyone sound good. I have heard some pretty good talent plus patrons actually listening to performers.

Hefley's
Thursdays
138 W. Gray 
Host: JW Wind
713-527-6100

 

PLAYER REVIEWS - send your constructive comments to tc@tcsmythe.com
FROM HOST, JW WIND
The West Gray Showcase at Hefley's is a new performance venue for singer songwriter performers to showcase their talent and sell their CDs. This venue is great for inviting your friends who play open mics and an opportunity for performers to display their talent to other venue%2Fclub owners and interested parties who might wish to book you for paid performances..
 
FROM PLAYER BUCKY GOLDBERG - WILD RABBIT SALAD
Hefleys Kicks major A**. Great PA and room. Great acoustics, great crowd, great service, performers are excellent. In the shadow of the juggernaut that is midtown.
FROM PLAYER MICHAEL ROEBUCK
This open mic has been going less than a year, but is maturing into one of the best in Houston. Last night was the best talent I've ever seen anywhere. Repeat performers are top notch. Not the same old enchilada.
 
FROM PLAYER, KEN GAINES
A great new open mic with featured performers. Very performer friendly. I had a blast and will be back

Jailhouse Saloon
Sundays
311 Preston, Spring, Tx
Host: Charlie Parker

 

PLAYER REVIEWS - send your constructive comments to tc@tcsmythe.com
FROM PLAYER, RAY SAUTER
This is a "Blues Jam" as opposed to the standard open mic. This is hosted by the Charlie Parker Band who kicks everything off around 2:00pm playing an initial set and then turn things over to "jammers" who want to come up and play. The jammers may be individual musicians -bass, drums, keyboards, guitars, "blues harps," Etc. or bands who are out and about seeking to gain some exposure. There is no official "Sign-Up Sheet" but if you let Charlie know who you are and what you play, he will "Call you up" in a timely manner. It is expected that jam participants are reasonably proficient and can play with a band. This is not really a place for beginners. I have gone up there with my bass guitar getting on the stage with musicians I have just met, have never played with before, and playing some songs I have never heard before! Kinda like the proverbial "Box of Chocolates" you have heard Forrest Gump talk about! LOL ! As I stated, this is a "Blues Jam" so the soft, sensitive "James Taylor" stuff probably would not go over really well here. If people want that, they need to head on over to the Hops House - which I often do after playing a set here at the Jailhouse! There are some top-notch musicians showing up and is a great place to network if you are looking to join or form a band and/or are looking for gigs. This is where I hooked up with my present band.  They provide a backline -amps, drums, PA, Etc. but most guitarists bring their own amplification. The venue is a "Biker Bar" and is out in the open with no air conditioning but this does not deter the crowd that shows up on any given Sunday afternoon. Parking is at a premium though so you may want to get there early - especially if you are lugging around a significant amount of equipment..

JP Hops House
Sundays
2317 S. Hwy 6 
Host: TC Smythe
281.496.0623   

PLAYER REVIEWS - send your constructive comments to tc@tcsmythe.com
FROM THE VENUE
The Hops House is West Houston's best brew pub.  The sound system is first class, and always operated by qualified sound engineers.  Usually 3-song sets, sometimes 5 songs, depending on early attendance. starting at 6:00pm with a supportive audience that understands this is a listening room!
 
FROM HOST, TC SMYTHE
Home of the Houston Songwriters Association (HSA) and the Nashville Songwriter's Association International (NSAI). This venue is owned by a songwriter and is located between Shipley's Donuts and McDonald's, across the street from the Best Buy Plaza on Highway 6 just north of Westheimer. Very animated conversation may be held on the spacious outdoor patio. You may also bring your own food, but importing drinks/sodas is discouraged.  Most genres welcome, but very loud guitar amps will require your attention.  You will recieve a soundcheck, a professional introduction and hearty applause.   Ask about the in-house recording rig and keyboard.  No posted ending time. We go around the list as long as there are musicians willing to play.   Sorry - no pre-recorded tracks are permitted.  
 
FROM PLAYER - RAY SAUTER
The Sunday open mic at the Hops House is an absolute must do whether you are a musician, songwriter, or passionate about really good music! Some of the best singer/songwriters in the Lone Star State frequently attend but I feel just as welcome! TC is the absolute greatest and I think Jim and Pam may have one or two good beers on tap for you as well!
 
FROM PLAYER - DAVID MYERS
JPHops House is by far my favorite Open Mic. The owners (Jim and Pam) are awesome people and great supporters of live music. The venue itself has an awesome sound system and an available Korg 88 weighted key keyboard.The musicians that come here to play are downright amazing to me. And last but nowhere even close to least is our illustrious Hostess(even if she aint a Twinkie)lol
T C Smythe. Way Cool Place
 
FROM PLAYER - STEVE DALY
this was the first open mic I attended when I came to Houston and I'm still there. Great host, monster PA and the best selection of brews in town, say no more...
FROM PLAYER, APRIL KELLY
"One of the best open mics in the city of Houston, run by one of the most professional hosts in town. TC Smythe gives the performer warm fuzzies and Pam & Jim provide a great atmosphere in the Pub at all times. Fun place, great host, good times, Always. =)"
 
FROM PLAYER, HUGH FITZPATRICK
"I have attended the open mic with friends on several occasions -we've always had a great time. A very supportive atmosphere & cheap drinks, interesting performers, good sound...TC, Jim & Pam are the best!
 
FROM POET, BEVERLY SHIRKEY
The best place to sing your original songs and met other singer songwriters - as well as a poet or two. TC is hands down the best open mic host - everyone is welcomed from the new beginner to the most polished performer - a place where they actually listen!
 
FROM PLAYER, KEN GAINES
This is a very well presented open mic with a great sound system and host. Performers are treated with a friendly respect and this is an actual live music venue put together by Jim & Pam with the music in mind. One of my favorite hangouts
 
FROM PLAYER - RUSTY WINZ
The Hops House open mic is undoubtedly one of the very best in Houston. The sound system is second to none and TC is far and away the most gracious hostess in the business. And they have all of those beers......mmmmmmmm beeeeeeeer.
 
FROM PLAYER - KELLY HANSHAW
This is a terrific open mic. Great audience for sure! And TC, the hostess, makes each performer feel welcomed and treats all performers with equal respect. Each performer is just as special and important as any other who showed up to play. She takes great care to set you up and always gives a proper introduction. She does it right.

Just A Nice Place
Host Ray Sauter
Fridays
PLAYER REVIEWS - send your constructive comments to tc@tcsmythe.com
FROM HOST, RAY SAUTER
My band, Tin Cadillac, hosts this jam. It was originally intended as a regular Friday night occurence. Lately, this establishment has been less consistent in booking us choosing to try some other things which is fine but creates some anxiety for our scheduling and a great deal of frustration for anyone coming out to jam with us. This is a LONG DRIVE for a most including myself. I really do not want someone making this drive only to find out that a Karaoke machine has taken our place for the night! At the present, we are booked for 8/19 and we will have an 'Open Jam' format for that night. For future dates, you might want to call the bar, check out our Tin Cadillac fan page on Facebook, or you can email me at ray.m.sauter@gmail.com and I will let you know when this jam is on.
 

McGonigel's Mucky Duck
Mondays
2425 Norfolk
Host: Wayne Wilkerson
713-528-5999

PLAYER REVIEWS - send your constructive comments to tc@tcsmythe.com
FROM PLAYER, KEN GAINES
Absolutely one of my favorite open mics in the world. I've been coming to this one for about 20 years. The Duck's sound system and stage make this a serious place to sing your songs for the first time or the 1000th. Host, Wayne Wilkerson has made this an event for beginners and professionals alike.
 

Puffabelly's
Thursdays
Host: Kenny Courville

PLAYER REVIEWS - send your constructive comments to tc@tcsmythe.com
FROM HOST, KENNY COURVILLE
every Thursday except for conflicts that come. It is VERY laid back (can't emphasize that enough). A really fun venue. Lot of regular performers that along with the crowd are becoming the best of friends with one another. -I like to think of it as a big support group for music addicts. We go at it from 7-9 officially but start early and stay late.
 

RACS Ice House
PLAYER REVIEWS - send your constructive comments to tc@tcsmythe.com
FROM PLAYER, RAY SAUTER
RACS is a really nice place but what makes it great are the patrons who are really enthusiastic about the music! Dan Scott is the nicest guy you would ever want to meet and the bartender/owner is a real sweetheart as well! This is a place for bands, jammers, and singer/songwriters to show their stuff. Looking forward to coming back with my band, Tin Cadillac for some dates we have booked!
 

The Richmond Chill Grill
Wednesdays
4704 Richmond
Host: Mark Zeus
713-622-0775

 

PLAYER REVIEWS - send your constructive comments to tc@tcsmythe.com
FROM PLAYER, RED WATTERSON
Richmond Chill is a great Open Mic – I’m a player & a customer - Mark Zeus is a super host - and the crowd is always appreciative - I'd give it a "10".
Mark provides all of the equipment – never tried to get a gig there, so I couldn’t tell you if The Chill is open to additional live music. I’ve always gone there just to relax and hear local talent – play a few songs – take some friends – kick-back for a while.

Rock Bottom Sports Bar
Thursdays
111 Weakly Way
Host: Edison Freeman

 

PLAYER REVIEWS - send your constructive comments to tc@tcsmythe.com
FROM HOST, EDISON FREEMAN
This is the Mike 'Lowboy' Leubner Memorial Jam, operating across 4 different venues for 4 years. The host band is Edison Freeman, on bass and guitar, James Henry on guitar, and either Dan Jones or Kevin Reed on drums. Although our wheelhouse is the blues, we support classic rock, country, jazz, and wholeheartly put our energy into original music from singer/songwriters. We provide drums and bass rig, as well as one of the better sounding PA systems in the area. Try it, you'll like it.

Shakespeare's Pub
Sundays
14129 Memorial Drive
Host: Spare Time Murray
PLAYER REVIEWS - send your constructive comments to tc@tcsmythe.com
 

Short's Bar
PLAYER REVIEWS - send your constructive comments to tc@tcsmythe.com
FROM PLAYER - RAY SAUTER
This is a really nice venue with great potential. Met Randy last night and he is a great guy and a talented picker. Since this is a sports bar, Monday nights will be problematic when MNF comes around. I am therefore looking forward to spending some Tuesday nights with you and once you get that larger stage situated, I will bring along my full band!
 

Zachary's Cajun Cafe
Thursdays
716 Kingwood Dr
Host: Dick Chapman/Andy Rodriguez
281-359-2256

 

PLAYER REVIEWS - send your constructive comments to tc@tcsmythe.com
FROM THE HOST- DICK CHAPMAN
Great acoustic open mic. Family-friendly, with a wide range of age and skill level on any given night. Friendly hosts, and a supportive owner. Paid gigs have resulted from playing at the open mic.
 
FROM CO-HOST GREGG WATTS
Zachary's has become the place-to-be on Thursday nights! The owners are VERY supportive of the community music scene, and have established this family-friendly restaurant as home of the Kingwood/Humble/Porter/New Caney area open-mic attended by young and old. It's downright awesome to see Middle School-ers and High School-ers come to play and support each other! Many friendships have developed at this open-mic resulting in instances where the spare mic onstage just beckons "harmony interventions"! The food and drink is "lagniappe"!!