First “real” open mic at a bar — big step for me!

Hey everyone,

This week I played my first live open mic at an actual bar on a stage while I was visiting family in Phoenix, Arizona. I’ve done the Justin Guitar open mic events and played for family and friends at barbecues before, but this felt like a whole different level.

I was definitely nervous getting up there, but once I started playing it turned into such a rush. It was really special to have some family and friends in attendance, and the crowd overall was super supportive. I even got some solid applause at the end, which meant a lot.

I uploaded a short snippet from the performance to YouTube and wanted to share it here since this community is really where I built the confidence to even try something like this.

Thanks for all the encouragement along the way — it truly makes a difference.

https://youtube.com/shorts/mnZzQWP2kUE?si=3Qt0UIFaXm3xR_06

32 Likes

Congratulations Tosh, great job!

Great stuff. It certainly is a great rush.

Well done Tosh. You looked really comfortable up on stage.

Way to go Tosh!
Congratulations… you sounded very confident & nailed Johnny’s Blues!!!

Tod

Well done Tosh. You look and sound the part. I’m sure your audience appreciated you.

Congrats on taking that next step up from our JGC OMs.

:+1:

very well done, congrats! I like your playing and singing.

Awesome job Tosh - First real OM is a big step for anyone - you nailed it!

Congrats, Tosh! :smiling_face_with_sunglasses:
Whilst it’s a big step and can indeed be daunting, the real fun/enjoyment comes when you repeat the experience regularly and folk get to know you.
It’s all about relating to people :grinning_face_with_big_eyes:

Congrats Tosh on the big step. I have to say a big hats off to anyone that can get up and perform in front of people like that :+1:

Congrats, that takes courage and you’ve got a lot to be proud of!

Bravo Tosh.
That’s a wonderful step, you must be smiling at the thrill of it all.
More and more, keep the momentum rolling.
:slight_smile:

A big congrats, Tosh!
Performing at an open mic is a huge step. Have you given any thought to appearing at one of hometown open mics?

Congratulations Tosh! :clap: :clap: Well done! and you sound great :smiley:

Congratulations Tosh! You looked very comfy on that stage!

Thats fantastic. What a cool experience.

I’m so happy for you, Tosh! Looks like you were quite comfortable up there. You sounded great! The guitar sounded great too!

Wow - that’s fantastic - your strumming arm moves like a freight train (sorry, trying to keep in the spirit of the song). I wish I was as good at that as you are!! You’ve got a lovely voice as well. Hopefully you’d do loads more!!

Fantastic Tosh. Well done!!!