Open Mics & Writers Nights
Find excellent opportunities to perform and network at open mics and writers' nights. Open mics require no audition, while writers' nights feature pre-scheduled performers. Here’s a guide to some notable venues and events:
Open Mics
Bluebird Cafe
Bluebird Cafe (4104 Hillsboro Rd, 37215, 615-383-1461): Mondays 6–7:45 pm. Online sign-ups open at 11am CT the day of. Perform one original song (no drums/backing tracks). Check-in by 5:15 pm. There are multiple ways to play here. Get the details.
Commodore Grille
Commodore Grille (Holiday Inn, 2613 West End Ave, 615-794-1308): Open mic slots available after scheduled performances Tues–Sat. Hosted by Nashville veterans Tuesday 6 – 10 pm,
Friday and Saturday 7 – 10:30 pm Hosted by Jimmy and Anna-Lisa
Sunday, Monday, Wednesday &Thursday 6 – 10 pm Hosted by Debi Champion
Writers Nights
If you want to play, go to the show, meet the host, see where you feel like you're most at home. Be a good hang, a great songwriter and persistent and you'll get there! Venues are easiest to hardest to play. Everything after the Bluebird, you need to hang out there a lot or know someone who can get you in.
Commodore Grille
Commodore Grille Holiday Inn, 2613 West End Ave, 615-794-1308: Free show and parking. New to Nashville, always good writers and a good crowd. Everyday except Tuesday.
Heartbreakers & Hitmakers
Donelson Pub 945 Allen Rd, Nashville, TN 37214, Tuesday 8-11 Hosted by Elizabeth Eckert
Lee Rasconne
Lee Rasconne Writers Nights @ Millennium Maxwell House, 2025 Rosa L Parks Blvd): Wednesdays and Thursdays at 7 pm. Details.
Bluebird Cafe
Bluebird Cafe 4104 Hillsboro Rd, 37215, Reserve a seat online. If you can't get a reservation, the walk up line for the late show has a higher likelihood of getting you access Shows. If you want to play, they have multiple ways listed you can get in. Details.
Listening Room
The Listening Room, 618 4th Ave S, 615-259-3600): $ cover. Lots of great songwriter showcases.
The Freak Show
Music Row Freakshow @ The Local 110 28th Ave N, Wed 7-11, Fri at 6-10. Terri Jo Box hosts the best up & comers; Instagram
Bus Call
@Luke Combs 120 2nd Ave, Nashville, Tn 7 killer acts!⚡️doors at 7:30pm!!bTue 8-11pm. Best up & comers; Instagram
Whiskey Jam
The Whiskey Jam @ Dierks Bentley's Whiskey Row 400 Broadway Nashville, TN 37203; Up & Comers Details.
Other
Other great venues 3rd & Lindsley, City Winery,