The big thing here at the Shore is "Open Mic" nights. Everyones having one and recently there was a spot in the local paper listing them. One place here in town has had one for a long time on Fri. nights. Another place says it gives them a chance to hear new talent, some of whom may get a gig. So how do you go in and ask for any price when they're getting music for free?
Whats your take, is it just a free entertainment for the venue or does it help musicians. My personal opinion is its a free night for the bars. I think if they hired someone to play the night and then a portion of it went to open mic time OK, but all night?
Another issue is the blur of prices for a bar gig, private party, and Banquet/Wedding. It seems the bar price, which is the lowest is what everyone expects to pay. Its hard to keep up the pay standards.