Singer-Songwriters and Musical Open Mics

Out of the Bedroom: Singer-Songwriters and Musical Open Mics is the first published ethnographic exploration of New York City musical open mics and the musicians and singer-songwriters who actively perform at them. This sociological study dispels the common assumption that open mics are culturally monolithic and reserved for novice musicians. Open mics allow musicians at different locations or stages within their musical development and identity to interactively perform, practice, and network with other musicians. Important themes in the book include the tension between self and society in the creative process, issues of creative authenticity and authorship, and the Do-It-Yourself cultural zeitgeist of the late 20th and early 21st centuries. The growth of DIY and participatory culture have sparked other musical forms, and the discussion embraces the relationship between open mics and recent activities such as Karaoke, American Idol, Guitar Hero/Band, and Air Guitar Contests.Drawing on participant observation, semi-structured interviewing, and discourse, historical, and narrative analyses, this book provides a description of how open mics actively serve working musicians and demonstrates how open mics have etched an organizational place in the musical landscape and patchwork of music scenes.