Not so open mic

Open mics are supposed to be low-stakes, welcoming spaces to share your music. But let’s be real: most open mics are dominated by men, which can feel intimidating for women and femmes who are often systematically pushed to the fringes of the music industry despite having powerful voices and stories.

That’s why Karen Joy Brown and Katie Phillips—veteran musicians and former bandmates—created the Not So Open Mic.

JOIN the NOT SO OPEN MIC
A woman with gray wavy hair is sitting on a rattan chair, playing an acoustic guitar. She is wearing a brown T-shirt and gray jeans, smiling and looking to her right.

sebastopol - ca

1st + 3rd sundays

coffee + Moore

Women + femme

performers

Original +

cover friendly

Sign Up
Two women sitting outdoors on wooden benches, playing acoustic guitars and singing, surrounded by green bushes and trees.

We know how it feels to sit in the audience, waiting for the “perfect” moment to get up and perform. Maybe you’re thinking, “I’m not ready yet,” or “I need to practice more,” or “What if I mess up?” Here’s the truth: You don’t need to be perfect to be ready.

The Not So Open Mic is a warm, loving community of people who will cheer you on, celebrate your courage, and be genuinely excited to hear what you’re working on—mistakes and all. The sooner you get in the ring, the sooner you’ll realize how much you’re capable of. So take a deep breath, sign up, and let your voice be heard. We’re so proud of you already.

We do it different

  • Sign up here >

    When you sign up you will receive automatic email reminders with nifty buttons to save it into your calendar, reschedule, and cancel your spot.

    You are welcome to sign up for multiple dates.

  • Not usually, we encourage everyone to sign up in advance. We are usually booked up fully beforehand, but occasionally there are no-shows or we get through our slots quicker than expected.

  • Women, femmes, non-binary or gender fluid folk who feel comfy in female spaces.

  • Anyone and everyone who is supportive and loving!

  • Original songs, covers, spoken word—it’s all welcome. However, this is not a comedy open mic.

  • 2 songs or 10 minutes

  • Yes! Karen and Katie write personalized Love Notes to each performer, highlighting what stood out and what worked well. This is a criticism-free zone, so feedback is always supportive and craft-focused.

  • No, this is a free event. We encourage you to grab a cup of tea or yummy bite from the cafe, and you can optionally tip the Not So Open Mic Hosts.

  • No worries! Life happens. You can cancel your spot by looking up your confirmation email, there is a button that allows you to either reschedule or cancel your spot. If it is within 24 hours of the event, then please Contact Us to let us know. Thank you!

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    • act of resistance

      It’s so important that the Not So Open Mic exists. It’s a healing experience to be in such a supportive and encouraging space for women to share songs and stories freely. It feels like such an act of resistance in today’s world.

      — SAMMY

    • Therapy + church

      This open mic is like therapy and church all rolled into one! The vulnerability, raw emotion, and courage I see every time are deeply inspiring! This is the first place outside my car I’ve been moved to share a song since middle school choir….. I will get up there one Sunday because this place is supportive, nurturing and uplifting A.F.

      — STACEY

    • Imperfect + celebrated

      Not so Open Mic is a place where I can be imperfect and still feel celebrated. I’m new to playing the guitar, but because it’s such a warm, supportive community, and is facilitated by two incredible women, even I feel like I can get up and play and sing. One of my most favorite places to be.

      — ELLA

    • Place for women to grow

      Thank you from the bottom of my musical big-dreaming heart for a safe, fun, supportive space to share music and songs. YES. I felt a sense of community, support, and safety immediately. Katie and Karen have created a super special, much needed place for women to grow together as musicians. I love you.

      -Also, let’s face it, we can say it, EVERY open mic is male dominated!! I love to come play with a space carved out for women and I can tell that many others feel the same. We are coming out of the woodwork and bringing all the songs. Also appreciate that women, non-binary, trans folks are clearly invited. 

      — KAREENA

    • sweet + welcoming

      So much musical talent in Sonoma County. This open mic was better than the all regular ones I've been to. So sweet and welcoming. Thank you for creating space.

      — RACHEL