Lights out on Broadway: The Ultimate Open Mic Experience
Update: Lights Out on Broadway has been discontinued…for now.
For those of my friends who follow me on Instagram, it is no secret that ever since one of my friends introduced me to the Lights Out on Broadway open-mic, I have pretty much been a regular since moving to New York.
Created and presented by Broadway's Derrick Davis and Chondra Profit, Lights Out is a curated open-mic that is actually planned in advance. This way, the band and supporting vocalists will know the performers' song(s) days in advance, making the experience incomparable to other open-mics in New York City. The event takes place at its new home, Green Room 42, once a month (Like their Facebook page for the announcements).
What makes this open-mic different from the others? Two things: (1) The atmosphere. The venue is spacious, comfortable and contemporary. Even if I weren't going to see the performances, I wouldn't mind just sitting at the bar and having a couple glasses of wine with friends. (2) The B Side band, featuring Broadway’s own Angela Birchett! Under the direction of Taharqa Patterson, this band can do no wrong. They have signature selections that always get the crowd hype, but they are able to beautifully execute the guest singers' selections as well. If there is any instance where the "spirit moves," you better believe the B Side will be able to keep up!
I fell in love with Angela's vocal prowess coupled with her charisma and light-hearted spirit the first time I heard her perform. It is fascinating to see her take on these songs for a vast number of eras, genres, and stylings. One of my favorite performances is their rendition of "Bang Bang," originally performed by Jessie J, Ariana Grande and Nicki Minaj. Watch the video below, and stay tuned until the end so that you may be blessed!
On Monday, November 3, 2015, there were two guest singers who performed, one of which was Brooklyn's own Samantha Howard. She performed Beyonce's "Halo" and Pharrell's "Happy." Watch the video below to see her bring down the house with her take on "Halo." You will not be disappointed!
Light's Out on Broadway celebrated it's 1-year anniversary on October 19, 2015. The house was packed and the talent was unbelievable. "Man, I'm on a whirlwind of emotions. I've been happy, in deep thought, tearing up, and more," is what one of my friends tweeted from the event on that night! I have no doubt that Lights Out will be celebrating many more anniversaries to come.
