Why Everyone Should Go to an Open Mic
We often have people in our inbox who want to get involved in the city’s vibrant arts scene. They’ve got this creative urge, but they just don’t know where to start. Our host Jacoby Cochran will be the first to tell you that Chicago’s open mic scene can be a great jumping off point. Whether you’re interested in sharing your poetry, original stories, music, or comedy there is definitely an open mic for you. Musician Sam Thousand co-founded Chibrations, an app that helps Chicagoans find open mics, live jam sessions, and performance opportunities. He gives us the best spots to check out and advice for budding performers and artists.
Open mics mentioned
- The Ox Jam
- The Corner Series
- Lyrical Libations
- Respect the Mic
- Ka’Lab Speaks
- Stomping Grounds Open Stage
- Grown Folks Stories
- Karaoke Storytellers
- The Moth
- Big Kid Show
- Open Beats
- Luya Poetry
- YCA's Wordplay
- Overflow Coffee
Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter.
Follow us @citycastchicago
You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246
Learn more about the sponsors of this July 11 episode:
Become a member of City Cast Chicago.
Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
Subscribe To Our Newsletter

Stay connected to City Cast Chicago and get ready to join the local conversation.
Latest Episodes
Your Guide to July 2026 in Chicago
As summer really takes off, the food fests, fireworks shows, and WNBA All Star Weekend have us really excited for July. Here’s your guide...

Extreme Heat, Indiana Fireworks, and 'The Bear' Finale
Extreme heat warnings, corn sweat, and potential thunderstorms could make this the most volatile weather week of the summer so far. Execu...

Seriously, More Parking Meter Drama? Plus, More Mayoral Candidates
Chicago’s infamous parking meters are up for sale. In a City Council committee meeting last week, alders got more insight into the mayor’...

How Quantum Is Already Changing the South Side. Plus, Heat Wave Approaching
Earlier this month, Advocate Health Care broke ground on a new hospital at the south end of the forthcoming 440-acre Quantum Shore Campus...

FCC Comes For ABC Chicago, The Bear is Back, and Get Free Coffee
The Federal Communications Commission has ABC 7 Chicago and other local stations in its crosshairs as the FCC has ordered an accelerated...

How Much To Run For Mayor? Plus, Elise Malary Plaza and City Hall Art Missing
Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, who has been floated as a potential candidate for mayor, recently received $255,000 from a local un...

Schools' Fundraising, Chicago’s Plan for 78, and ‘Ferris Bueller’s’ Turns 40
Principals, local school councils, and parent groups are getting increasingly creative with their fundraising. In 2025, Chicago schools s...

City Will Buy Greyhound Terminal, Chicago's 'Friendship Recession,' and We Want 4 a.m. Tacos!
Last week, the City Council voted to purchase the downtown Greyhound bus terminal. We discuss the details and what’s next for the critica...

So Everyone's Running For Mayor. Plus, How To Do Pride Fest!
We’ve got more mayoral candidates ahead of February’s primary after former Ald. George Cardenas (12th) officially launched his campaign....

Is Chicago Really Over Ye? Plus, Best Summer Museum Exhibits
A week before the Bears season kicks off, Soldier Field will be home to one of Chicago’s most controversial sons, Kanye West. The Bully t...

