Writers nights and open mics in Nashville provide opportunities for songwriters to showcase their talent, gain exposure, and network with other artists. While these events may not attract publishers, producers, or record labels, talented individuals can still grab attention and potentially receive referrals.
Open mics refer to shows where participants do not need to audition beforehand. On the other hand, writers nights have pre-scheduled line-ups featuring multiple songwriters.
Here are some notable open mics and writers nights in Nashville:
Open Mics:
Bluebird Cafe: Located at 4104 Hillsboro Rd, their open mic takes place on Mondays from 6 to 7:45 pm. Sign-ups are done online at 11 am Central on the day of the show. However, spots are limited, and not everyone will secure a spot. Each participating writer gets to perform one original song, either solo or with a maximum of two others. No drums or backing tracks are allowed, and the show maintains a family-friendly atmosphere.
Commodore Grille: Hosted by Jimmy, Anna-Lisa, and Debi Champion, this open mic is held on Tuesdays, Fridays, Saturdays (6-10 pm), and Sundays, Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays (6-10 pm). It offers a mix of scheduled songwriters, and attendees can also participate in the open mic towards the end of the night.
Fox & Locke: Taking place on Thursdays at 6 pm, this popular open mic allows each performer to play two songs, including cover songs. It is advisable to arrive early to secure a preferred slot. Fox & Locke is located in Lieper's Fork, approximately 40 minutes southwest of Nashville.
Writers Nights:
Bluebird Cafe: In addition to their open mic, Bluebird Cafe hosts various writers nights. On Sundays at 8 pm, six writers who have passed a quarterly live audition perform a three-song set. From Tuesday to Saturday, there are early shows from 6 to 7:45 pm featuring up-and-coming writers who have played on Sundays, and late shows at 9 pm showcasing hit writers and established bands.
Commodore Grille: Located at Holiday Inn, this venue features songwriters every night (Wednesday to Monday, 6:30 pm), along with open mic sessions. It's a great place to meet both local and out-of-town writers who are looking to connect.
Whiskey Jam: Held at Winners, this musical and social event occurs on Mondays and Thursdays at 8 pm. It serves as a platform for local talent, and many performers from the show have achieved commercial success.
Song Suffragettes: Taking place at The Listening Room on Mondays at 6 pm, this weekly showcase highlights female singer/songwriters in country music. It features a mix of hit writers, staff writers, newcomers, and occasional signed artists.
Ynot Wednesdays Songwriters Spotlight: This show, which occurs twice a month at Live Oak, presents a line-up of talented singers and songwriters, often including staff writers. Publishing company representatives sometimes attend these shows. The schedule can be found on their Instagram page.
Music Row Freakshow: Hosted by Terri Jo Box at The Local every Wednesday at 7:30 pm, this event draws a lively crowd and offers a chance to connect with hit writers and discover new talent.
Lee Rasconne Writers Nights: Hosted by Lee Rasconne at Millennium Maxwell House on Wednesdays and Thursdays at 7 pm, this event showcases a variety of writers and features humorous hosting.
Nashville Tour Stop: Hosted by Aaron Schilb, this event curates impressive line-ups of emerging song
