Sign-up begins at 6:30.

• A random drawing will determine the order.

• Open Mic has been full each night! We recommend arriving closer to 6:30pm to get your name in the drawing.

• Please limit your set to 10 minutes of fame!

• Two songs each through the rotation. Random drawing for a third song if time permits.

• If we are over capacity and you don’t get a slot, you will be guaranteed a slot the following month.

• We encourage performers to rehearse and leave the music stand at home! We have a supportive environment here. It’s okay to mess up, and it’s good to learn how to work through it!

  Hope to see you there!

$15 … Buy Tickets!

Will King - nylon string and electric guitar is a teacher and lifelong student of flamenco and classical guitar styles. Bill Reynolds - acoustic 12 string, electric guitar and vocals has played with some of the best musicians in the Mpls music scene. Stymie Seamans- bass and vocals founding member of the Daisy Dillman band. All three live in the excelsior area and have enjoyed successful music careers in the five state area.

$20 … Buy Tickets!

Virtuosos! That about sums it up for these two veteran musicians who come from The Prairie Home Companion family. It’s about to go down. Get your tickets and see for yourselves!

themandolinplayer.net/richard-kriehn

patdonohue.com

$30 … Buy Tickets!

Come and help celebrate the incomparable Jeff Dayton’s BIRTHDAY! A masterful songwriter and an amazing guitarist, he also has another talent - storytelling! You never know what journeys he will take you during the show. He’ll be joined by the immensely talented Sam Ryden & Mark Bendickson… things don’t get better!

jeffdaytonmusic.com

$15 … Buy Tickets!

Billy and David- two local legends combine to bring you a warm night of great tunes. One sports a fedora, the other may own one, but doesn’t want to upstage his musical cohort. The fedora competition is slim out there! But their music is sure to leave you in high spirits.

billyjohnsonmusic.com

$20 … Buy Tickets!

Michael Gulezian returns for an intimate concert at The 318 - his favorite listening room venue in the entire USA! “Michael Gulezian might be the most accomplished pure guitarist on the planet. compositional genius. ... astounding.” – Fred Kraus, Minor 7th .com “Public radio favorite Michael Gulezian always has had strong ties to Minnesota and its guitar innovators, from world-rockin’ Steve Tibbetts to bluesy Peter Lang. Yet he ranges far beyond folk, playing hard-driving music that recalls Leo Kottke and the late Michael Hedges, who called him “'my kindred spirit.'” - Minneapolis Star Tribune

timbrelinemusic.com

youtube.com/user/MichaelGulezian

$20 ... Buy Tickets!

Tom Lieberman & Tim Sparks are two legends not only of our tiny room, but of the Twin Cities and beyond consistently bringing their musical bond each night. For their accolades and stories, click the picture!

$30 … Buy Tickets!

The legendary Minneapolis rock star, GB Leighton, is returning to the 318 Cafe. His passion and energy on stage is unmatched and we are thrilled to have him back. Come and see this force for yourselves...

gbleighton.com

$20 … Buy Tickets!

Fresh off his debut album ‘Billions of Stars’ and a sold-out release show, Joel Sax returns to the 318 Café, again bringing with him to the stage these incredible Twin Cities favorites. Together this new band of friends, appropriately titled ‘The Friend Ship,’ will be playing their biggest hits and their brand-new songs. He is joined by Nikki Lemire, Haley E Rydell, Marc Severin, Dave Mehling and Nyssa June Krause. Click the photo for their full bios!

joelsaxmusic.com

$30 … Buy Tickets!

“2 Girls & A Boyd” was born out of a love for rich and complex vocal harmonies. These veterans of stage and studio combine for a powerful live experience. Highlighting the talents of each of the artists, the three members, Mary Jane Alm, Aimée Lee and Boyd Lee performed for the first time as this ensemble in late 2016 to immediate critical acclaim. Joining them on mandolin features Richard Kriehn from A Prairie Home Companion and on harmonica the incomparable Noah Hoehn!

boydleemusic.com

$35 … Buy Tickets!

Michael Monroe, “MN Acoustic Music Master,” (Jon Bream, Star Tribune) performs his award winning music on vocals, handmade Seaton Guitars and bamboo/crystal flutes as well as his live looping, ‘technology powered by creativity’. With 17 recordings, 12 original CDs and 7 that feature the folk legends of our time such as Cat Stevens, Joni Mitchell, Simon & Garfunkel, James Taylor etc. Monroe’s award winning instrumental soundtracks have been featured on PBS/CBC, Toronto Enviro/New York Indie Film Fests as well as an Emmy for “Soaring On Mended Wings".

michaelmonroemusic.com

$30 ... Buy Tickets!

Pamela McNeill knew from an early age that music would be her life. She joined her first rock band at 16 and learned quickly how to connect with her audience. A native of Winona, Minnesota, Pamela now resides in Minneapolis. Her career has taken her all over the world including four years in the UK as a backing singer for Rick Astley and has written for and with a wide range of other artists including Wynonna Judd, Jim Peterik (“Eye of the Tiger”) and Instrumental icon Yanni. Her new EP "Wave After Wave" was released on Farm to Label Record on color vinyl and digitally. In 2024, she was honored to be inducted into the Minnesota Music Hall of Fame joining the likes of Prince, Bob Dylan, Judy Garland, Soul Asylum and The Replacements to name a few.

pamelamcneill.com

$20 … Buy Tickets!

Minnesota singer/songwriter Doyle Turner releases his highly anticipated new album Paper Maps. Raised on the White Earth Reservation and based in Bemidji, Doyle has been making a name for himself these last few years as a solo songwriter and as a member of the Americana band the International Treasures, who were nominated for 2 Midwest Country Music Awards last year. This new album confirms that Doyle is an exceptional songwriter who is not afraid to explore the backroads and inner workings of the heart.

doyleturner.com

$35 … Buy Tickets!

Michael who? Ugh, yet another unknown wannabe musician with a show at The 318. My bad. But if you could find it in your hearts to come out and support this “up & comer” with big, yet far off dreams, get your tickets now! He’ll do his best to remember his chords and lyrics, and hopefully he won’t be so shy and introverted on stage this time. And after a few songs, you will get used to his pitchiness. And for your troubles, you will all be able to say, “I saw him when…” (I assumed I have worn out the funny pics theme of him, so I’ll move to a funny blurb! We love you, Mikey!)

And he’s bringing one of our favorite string players, the unmatched DGS!

michaelshynes.com

$15 … Buy Tickets!

Twice named the Midwest Country Music Organization’s Songwriter of the Year, Sarah’s endearingly honest, expertly penned songs deliberately miss the forest for the trees. Armed with a poignantly relatable rainy day ache in her sunlit voice, she weaves a winding path of masterful storytelling and timeless Americana melody.

Folk artist Kelley Smith is a hopeless romantic who fancies old poetry and grandpa sweaters. All at once whimsical and haunting, Smith delivers deeply affecting lyrics with wry charm and a time traveler's voice.

sarahmorrismusic.com

kelleysmithmusic.com

$20 … Buy Tickets!

Judy Thomas brings her stellar band back to the 318! Whether it’s blues, jazz, or even gospel, it’s always deeply soulful! With a voice alternatingly sultry, smoky and sweet, Judy and her band serve up a tasty evening! You won’t want to miss this one. 

https://www.youtube.com

$35 … Buy Tickets!

It has been WAY too long since my friend and favorite 318 performer, Sir Chris Trapper, has been here! April 3rd, 2022 to be exact. He’s been busy on the road touring with Pat Benetar, REO Speedwagon, The Bodeans and Neil Giraldo! This November, he finds himself on tour in the area and he wants his 318 fix, and we couldn’t be happier to give it to him! Opening the night is Emily Jeanne Brown, bringing her signature visceral yet minimal sound. Mark your calendars, folks.

christrapper.com

emilyjeannebrown.com

$35 … Buy Tickets!

It has been WAY too long since my friend and favorite 318 performer, Sir Chris Trapper, has been here! April 3rd, 2022 to be exact. He’s been busy on the road touring with Pat Benetar, REO Speedwagon, The Bodeans and Neil Giraldo! This November, he finds himself on tour in the area and he wants his 318 fix, and we couldn’t be happier to give it to him! Opening the night is Emily Jeanne Brown, bringing her signature visceral yet minimal sound. Mark your calendars, folks.

christrapper.com

emilyjeannebrown.com

$30 … Buy Tickets!

The legendary Minneapolis rock star, GB Leighton, is returning to the 318 Cafe. His passion and energy on stage is unmatched and we are thrilled to have him back. Come and see this force for yourselves...

gbleighton.com

$15 … Buy Tickets!

The venerable Wayne Grimsrud has been family to the 318 Cafe for years, so it’s only right we help him ring in his 58th year in style! What better way to celebrate than with good music, great friends and maybe a pint… or three!

facebook.com/waynegrimsrud

youtube.com/channel/waynegrimsrud

$20 … Buy Tickets!

Singer/songwriter Ann Reed returns with Joan Griffith on bass, mandolin and guitar. It’s their 9th Annual Mother’s Day Show at 318 Café! An evening of music with these two amazing musicians is fun, uplifting, and sure to soothe the weary soul.

annreed.com

$20 ... Buy Tickets!

Formed over three decades ago, Leatherman has become a cornerstone of Minnesota’s Americana music scene. Blending folk, country, bluegrass, and roots rock, their sound is timeless and reflective of the Midwest’s rich cultural heritage. Known for their storytelling lyrics and interesting instrumentation, the band has garnered a loyal fanbase throughout the Upper Midwest.

Over the years, Leatherman has been recognized for their songwriting prowess , earning three nominations for Minnesota Songwriter of the Year. Their songs, often infused with themes of love, resilience, and the changing American landscape, resonate deeply with audiences.

$35 … Buy Tickets!

Michael Monroe, “MN Acoustic Music Master,” (Jon Bream, Star Tribune) performs his award winning music on vocals, handmade Seaton Guitars and bamboo/crystal flutes as well as his live looping, ‘technology powered by creativity’. With 17 recordings, 12 original CDs and 7 that feature the folk legends of our time such as Cat Stevens, Joni Mitchell, Simon & Garfunkel, James Taylor etc. Monroe’s award winning instrumental soundtracks have been featured on PBS/CBC, Toronto Enviro/New York Indie Film Fests as well as an Emmy for “Soaring On Mended Wings".

michaelmonroemusic.com

$15 … Buy Tickets!

The Sam Graber Band is coming back to Excelsior! DO NOT MISS. One of MN’s hottest bands will be here. This is the all-original pop trio with “every song a single, every tune an anthem” (The Big Takeover). Sam Graber, the golden-voiced troubadour, and his band of MPLS music royalty - Marc Partridge and Brian Reidinger – hurl only original songs, each one made for hit radio. This is the band you have to see live to believe what you hear. Their recent album release Love & Fury has been getting major national accolades: “One of the best debut albums which we’ve heard in some time” (VENTS Magazine). The Sam Graber Band is truly a star show, and if you can see a star, catch it. Up close and personal. Hit music, Americana rock, and big harmonies await.

$20 … Buy Tickets!

Molly Maher resides on the border between the lands of Americana and the Blues and moves beautifully between them, blending simmering guitars and cutting lyrics. She has traveled the roads of the American music tradition and returned to sing about it with an authentic and sage voice. To see her perform live is an unforgettable experience.

mollymaher.com

Erik Koskinen is an American singer-songwriter,  multi-instrumentalist and producer, whose music is not categorized by sub-genres.  Stylistically he is on his own while heavily influenced by American roots music. The rhythmic integrity and musical tone is as important as the lyrical content and the artistic intent. 

erikkoskinen.com

$20 … Buy Tickets!

An accomplished harpist and vocalist, Nikki has spent the past few years diving into the world of songwriting, emerging with songs that delve into her experiences with love, loss, and motherhood. With her classical mastery of the harp, combined with a modern sense of exploration through loops and electric pedals, Lemire has garnered widespread praise and radio play, solidifying her as a rising star in the indie-folk scene. She is joined by Nyssa Krause and Haley E Rydell on even more strings!

nikkilemiremusic.com

$20 … Buy Tickets!

Two lovely humans making lovely music together. It’s a sight to be seen and a sound to be heard!

themandolinplayer.net/richard-kriehn

deanmagraw.com

$30 … Buy Tickets!

“2 Girls & A Boyd” was born out of a love for rich and complex vocal harmonies. These veterans of stage and studio combine for a powerful live experience. Highlighting the talents of each of the artists, the three members, Mary Jane Alm, Aimée Lee and Boyd Lee performed for the first time as this ensemble in late 2016 to immediate critical acclaim. Joining them on mandolin features Richard Kriehn from A Prairie Home Companion and on harmonica the incomparable Noah Hoehn!

boydleemusic.com

$15 … Buy Tickets!

Gary Rue and Randy Sabien offer up a rapid-fire melodic cascade of favorite songs penned over the past few decades. Gary’s music honors the craft of songwriting, reminiscent of the Everly Brothers, Roy Orbison and Mose Alison. Influenced by, the poets of Tin Pan Alley and their Brill Building offspring, all thoroughly plumbed from the musical depths of piano, guitar, and a voice that soars, growls and bubbles. Randy Sabien is a bluesy, rockin', swingin', funky, jazz violinist. With an intensely rhythmic, vibrant and inventive style, he has captivated audiences worldwide, playing with scores of bands and musicians of all stripes.

garyrue.com

randysabien.com

$20 … Buy Tickets!

It's time to celebrate new music! Monica Livorsi is a twin cities singer-songwriter with a Sara Bareilles flair and genre of girlpower. This spring, she has been releasing "the bittersweet singles", 3 songs focusing on a bittersweet relationship journey. Joined by Jenessa Iverson (bass/vocals), Ben Peterson (drums) and Riley Gulotta (guitar).

monicalivorsi.com

$20 ... Buy Tickets!

Three uniquely talented musicians join to create a stirring mix of “progressive world music” with futuristic flavors on a combination of instruments seen nowhere else. Greg Herriges plays (and sings into) his guitar and Greek bouzouki with a singular, award-winning approach honed by his studies of Eurasian music. rundio represents the 21st century with Chapman stick, a 10-stringed tapped instrument that sings like a bass, a piano, an electronic orchestra, and sometimes all at once. Michael Bissonnette juggles an array of global percussion including cajon, frame drums, zil tree, and Aztec death whistle. The music is original and ancient, daring and mesmerizing. 

facebook.com/TerminalThreeMusic

gregherriges.com
rundiomusic.com

$35 … Buy Tickets!

Playing songs from her upcoming record, prepare to feel all your feelings on a special night with Keri Noble. You will laugh, you will cry and you will leave with your souls filled with enough gas to get you through the next month! There are those among us who are able to give strength and hope to others simply by being in the same room with them, and Keri is one of those special people!

kerinoble.com

$35 … Buy Tickets!

Playing songs from her upcoming record, prepare to feel all your feelings on a special night with Keri Noble. You will laugh, you will cry and you will leave with your souls filled with enough gas to get you through the next month! There are those among us who are able to give strength and hope to others simply by being in the same room with them, and Keri is one of those special people!

kerinoble.com

$30 … Buy Tickets!

Join us for an unforgettable night of music as Scottie Miller, Bluebird Reviews “Artist of the Year” and a member of 2025 Grammy®️ Award-winning singer Ruthie Foster’s band, returns to The 318 Cafe with his new trio, featuring Scottie Miller (piano/vocals), Greg Schutte (drums), Dan Carpel (double bass). Scottie was a contributing songwriter on Ruthie’s 2024 Grammy®️-nominated album Healing Time and is a three-time Minnesota Blues Hall of Fame inductee. Don’t miss this chance to see Scottie and his incredible trio in action – a night of soulful blues, spoken word, jazz, and more!

scottiemiller.com

$15 … Buy Tickets!

Having graced the stage at the 318 Cafe many times and hailing from Bozeman, MT, Eli Quist is coming home for a special show at his favorite listening room. Eli is one-half of the Americana duo The Low Liners, and a well-traveled solo singer-songwriter. Through his heartfelt originals, choice covers, and special musical guests, this evening is sure to inspire you.

facebook.com/thelowliners

$30 … Buy Tickets!

We’re delighted to welcome back Nashville recording artist and Lake Minnetonka native son, Jeff Dayton! His decades of tours with Kenny Chesney and Glen Campbell, shows backing Willie Nelson, Bo Diddley and Vince Gill, plus his songs recorded by George Strait and heard on The Voice and Hawaii Five-O have made him an exceptional performer and songwriter. Don’t miss his long-awaited return to the 318.

jeffdaytonmusic.com

$20 … Buy Tickets!

Tony Ortiz has thrilled audiences with his outstanding singing and heartfelt songs. As lead singer of the Monroes in the 80s, you've heard Tony on the radio singing 'What Do All the People Know' or perhaps seen them touring with Rick Springfield or Toto.

tonyortizsoul.com

$15 … Buy Tickets!

As one of the longest running musicians to play The 318 over the last 17 years, the stupendous Billy Johnson never ceases to put on a great show! If somehow you managed to miss him all these years, now’s your chance! You won’t be disappointed…

billyjohnsonmusic.com

$25 … Buy Tickets!

Join Ali Gray for a special evening at the 318 Cafe as she celebrates her 50th birthday with an exclusive performance of her original songs. With over 27 years in the Twin Cities music scene and five studio albums to her name, Ali’s heartfelt melodies and authentic storytelling promise an intimate and memorable experience. Set in the cozy ambiance of the 318 Cafe—a venue renowned for its warm atmosphere and excellent acoustics—this event offers the perfect setting to enjoy Ali’s music up close. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to be part of a night filled with music, celebration, and community.

aligray.com