Dear Tell All: I'm in the early stages of a relationship with a really nice guy I met in my dorm. I think I like him more than he likes me, so I'm trying to play my moves just right to keep from scaring him off.
We first bonded over guitars. I noticed he had an acoustic in his room, and I told him that I played too. We noodled around with a few songs, trading off lead and harmony vocals. Neither one of us is very good, but I still think we made beautiful music together. Romance blossomed from there.
I'm interested in cementing our bond, and I wondered if it would be a good idea to take our duo to a local open mike. We're not exactly ready for prime time, but I thought we might get closer after going through the experience of choosing songs, rehearsing and working up our courage for a performance.
Sound like a good idea to you? And if so, where's a safe, supportive place to unveil our act?
Joan Baez Jr.
Dear Joan: It sounds like a good idea at this beginning stage of your relationship, though all bets are off if you two become famous. As we know, a romance mixed with a musical partnership didn't end well for Sonny and Cher.
I say: Go for it. If you guys can stay in tune and get a round of applause, I predict that, at the very least, an evening of fabulous sex will follow.
What if you can't stay in tune? Well, there's a local place where you can still get a round of applause. It's the Zuzu Café at 1336 Drake St., across from the Vilas Zoo. Every Saturday, beginning at 6:30 p.m., the Zuzu hosts the world's most tolerant open mike. The stage is barely a stage, but just a cleared-out corner outfitted with a P.A. system and a keyboard. There's no formality whatsoever; you simply sign up with the amiable hostess and do your thing, along with other guitarists, singers, trumpeters and whatnot. Even precocious kids get into the act at this all-ages affair.
As casual as it is, however, the Zuzu is still a public venue. There can be decent-sized crowds and talented performers on the bill, so I'm glad you mentioned the word "rehearsing."
Break a leg, Ms. Baez Jr. And let us know how things go after the performance.
Do you have a question about life or love in Madison? Write Tell All, 101 King St., Madison, WI, 53703. Or email tellall@isthmus.com.
