"Afternoon Delight" at Olney Library (Starland Vocal Band, 1976)

Open Mic performers and friends

More than 50 customers stopped by

Despite record-breaking cold temperatures and several cancellations due to illness, Olney Library still managed to hold its 1970s and 80s Open Mic during the first weekend of 2018. Performers of all ages tested out their vocal chops with classics from the Rolling Stones, Bob Marley, Simon & Garfunkel, the Carpenters, Janis Joplin, and Barbra Streisand, as well as 80s hits by Cyndi Lauper, Bonnie Tyler, and Gary Numan. An unforgettable show was put on by Olney staffer Lady Theresa, who wowed audiences with her renditions of “I Say a Little Prayer” and “Saving All My Love for You” with a near-scandalous climax. And with the singalong portion of the program, everyone had a chance to be part of the action and get their groove on!

Check out all the videos and photos here.

Fans voted for their favorite songs

In the run-up to the event, Olney Library created a colorful display that pitted the 1970s against the 1980s and read, “We love them both, but which is your favorite decade?” The display featured eye-catching images of bands, fashion, movies, books, CDs, and DVDs from both eras. More than 50 customers voted for their favorite songs/bands by decade, and… The winner was the 1970s. Top mentions were Bruce Springsteen; the Jackson Five; Earth, Wind & Fire; Queen; David Bowie; ABBA; and anything disco. Perhaps it’s true, the 70s’ music scene was a lot more eclectic and electrifying!

Woman holding up two small vinyl records

A "Name that Tune" winner

Part of the program was a “Name that Tune” quiz on songs from each decade, and we were awe-struck by how quickly people could name a song, often by the first few opening notes! All 80+ songs were downloaded from MCPL’s Freegal database. Did you know Freegal allows customers to download 5 songs per week for free? The .mp3 files are yours to keep forever, and you can play them on all your devices.

A man and woman singing and playing guitars

The Campbells rocked the house with
Bon Jovi, Bob Marley & Elton John

And finally, if you’re inspired to come to our next Open Mic, but want to brush up on your vocal skills or guitar playing, don’t forget MCPL’s awesome database, ArtistWorks. Professional, award-winning musicians lead self-paced online courses in a range of instruments and styles, including rock, classical, jazz and bluegrass, from beginner to advanced levels, all for free.

Attendees had a blast and are already asking when the next Open Mic will be held, so check back on MCPL’s website or call Olney at 240-773-9545 to learn more. We hope to see you soon! Special thanks to the Friends of the Library, Olney Chapter, for sponsoring this event.

Four people, some playing guitars, some singing and one with a tamborine

Fran, Head of Children's Services at Aspen Hill Library,
and Wendy, Olney volunteer, sang "La Bamba" from the 1987 movie

Labels: Databases, Olney, Programs and Events