I love music. And listening to — and seeing — it performed live can lift one’s spirits, stir emotions, and bolster your faith in humanity.
So, when I discovered the joyful scene on Wednesday nights at The Blue Note Grill, in Durham — site of the long-running Brett Chambers’ Open Mic — I knew I had to do a story on this cultural event. The joy pervading the packed room was undeniable — a robust tonic — and seemed to impel people to the dance floor. Performers of all talent levels took the stage and soared on a current of communal support, the superb backing band helping to elevate everyone who grabbed the mic.
Sound alone would not suffice in telling the story of Brett Chambers’ Open Mic — Matt Ramey provided stupendous photos that caught the electric energy coursing through the room, binding the audience and performers.
1 of 7
— BRETTS OPEN MIC_11.jpg
Delaney McQuaig, a regular band member of the house band for Brett’s Open Mic, playing his Fender Stratocaster at the Blue Note Grill in Durham, NC.
Matt Ramey / for WUNC
2 of 7
— BRETTS OPEN MIC_10.jpg
Music lovers dance during a performance at Brett’s Open Mic at the Blue Note Grill in Durham, NC.
Matt Ramey / for WUNC
3 of 7
— BRETTS OPEN MIC_1.jpg
Brett Chambers, creator of Brett’s Open Mic sits for a portrait at the Blue Note Grill in Durham, NC.
Matt Ramey / for WUNC
4 of 7
— BRETTS OPEN MIC_6.jpg
Acisse Jay (left) enjoys the guitar playing of Delaney McQuaig during Brett’s Open Mic at the Blue Note Grill in Durham, N.C.
Matt Ramey / for WUNC
5 of 7
Seletha Pherribo (left) and Ken Chavious attend Brett’s Open Mic at the Blue Note Grill in Durham, N.C.
Matt Ramey / for WUNC
6 of 7
Acisse Jay poses for a portrait at the Blue Note Grill in Durham, NC. Jay performs at Brett’s Open Mic regularly.
Matt Ramey / for WUNC
7 of 7
— BRETTS OPEN MIC_2.jpg
Brett Chambers, creator of Brett’s Open Mic, sits for a portrait at the Blue Note Grill in Durham, N.C.
Matt Ramey / for WUNC
