By Mary-Justine Lanyon
Several years ago, open mic nights were a weekly event at the Lake Arrowhead Village Pizza Deli on the upper level of Lake Arrowhead Village. A number of up-and-coming mountain musicians got their start by playing there for fellow musicians and fans.
But then the pandemic and Snowmageddon intervened.
Fortunately for today’s musicians, fellow artist Braden Ferguson has revived those open mic nights. He held his first one on Wednesday, July 10 out on the patio at the Pizza Deli.
Callie, Milla and Jordan played as We Don’t Know since they had not named their band prior to playing at the open mic night.
First to take the “stage” were three young musicians, playing as a band with no name. They repeatedly replied “We don’t know” when asked for their name – so that’s what they were called that night. Callie on guitar and vocals, Milla on bass and Jordan on drums played a few covers and original tunes and then sat and jammed, much to the delight of the group that had gathered.
Singer Destiny finished her song “You Are Not Alone” shortly before sharing it at the open mic night.
Ferguson himself then played a few songs before a young girl Destiny said she’d like to sing a song – a cappella – that she had written that day. Called “You Are Not Alone,” the song urged those feeling lonely or in need of help to reach out. Her song held a powerful message.
Some folks sitting on the patio had heard about the open mic event but others heard the music from the parking lot and wandered in. As word spreads, Ferguson hopes more musicians will attend and share their talent. He plans to be there on Wednesdays from 5 to 8 p.m.
And for those who don’t play or sing, head to the patio and be part of the audience.
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