For those unfamiliar with the title of this piece, this French expression points to the obligation of honorable, generous, and responsible behaviour associated with privilege. As I count myself in the latter category, through a bit of skill, but mostly luck and a lot of help from loved ones, friends and colleagues, I feel duty bound to return that support.

Hence the topic of this blog post.

For over six months, my friends in Monkey Fightin’ Snakes (who I’ve posted about way back as well) have hosted a Thirsty Thursday Open Mic at the Duke on Queen East at Leslie.

The venue is in keeping with a rock crowd, grungy but in all the right ways, MFS will back up anyone effectively, the gear is good, the stage large and there’s a sound tech too.

So it’s a mystery to me that the turnout has not been spectacular. This has to change.

There are so few good rooms for musicians to perform now. Yes, I know an open mic doesn’t pay, but neither does staying at home watching Netflix on a Thursday night. It’s a chance to see/hear what other players can do, workshop new songs, and network too. You might even enjoy a beer!

So, musicians, get out to the Duke and let’s get that list of jammers to look like the chalkboard at the old Relish (may it rest in peace)! Thursday evenings, signup starting at 8:00. Bring friends.

I’ll be there.