The Mic is Open

by | Feb 5, 2020

I’ve been to a few open mics, but I’ve never performed at one before. Tonight is going to be my debut!

I got my little ukulele about a year ago and I am just now finally ready to get up on a (small) stage and play and sing in front of strangers.

I’m really worried that I’m going to get that nervous heart pounding, knees shaking thing that always happens when I stand up in front of people to sing. It’s not the same when I’m acting on stage. Sure, I get nervous, but my body doesn’t usually betray me like it does when I get up to sing.

I did a LOT of karaoke in my 20s and 30s. We used to go out to drink and sing almost every Thursday night in University. And I had serious relationships with not one, but two karaoke hosts. And even thought I did it often, there was something about getting up to sing that first song that made my heart pound and my legs shake. It was almost comical!

And yes, the alcohol definitely helped, and I know I can sing with a few drinks under my belt, but I’ve never had to worry about playing an instrument AND remembering the words while singing, so I don’t want too much liquid courage.

It’s been a long time since karaoke. I think the last karaoke I did was with the Nervous Flirts (karaoke with a live band!) a few years ago when Bee was their host. Which, now that I think of it, technically makes him the third host I’ve loved. What’s up with that?!

Anyway, so I’m facing my fear and worries and I’m just going to do it. It’s time. I’ve practiced. I’m good enough. I think it will be fun and exhilarating once I get over the terror.

I let you know how it goes tomorrow.

P.S. One of my super talented photographer friends took this photo in the summer of 2005. I can’t remember if it was Wade or Raffaella!