The End of an Era

Tonight marks the end of an era. Richmond's On the Rise Bakery held its final Open Microphone. Nine acts performed at tonight's event, including the ninth and final musician -- Mark Aiken. Appropriately, his final song -- the first song he ever performed at an OTR open mike -- was the classic cover from the band the Zambonis... "Zamboni Song." There were more than a few tears among members of the audience as he performed his rendition making only a few mistakes.

Many thanks to On the Rise for holding Open Mike all these years -- and to Derek Burkins for hosting in recent years. Some incredible musicians came out of the woodwork to OTR's open mikes.  It's been a great run... and I will really miss it.