Julian Miranda is the organizer of an open mic night at Mama Lion's supper club. If you are thirsty for something special, this is where you should drink.
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"When I open the stage up to people, I am always shocked and pleasantly surprised to see how much talent is out there. Never judge a book by its cover, that's my motto," he said.
That's the perfect introduction to the first singer of the night: Eric Krump.
One after another stepped to the mic, each with their own style. So good, even professionals are taken aback.
"It's bananas. Sometimes I get in here and after more than 20 years in the business, I say, 'Well, maybe I'm not going to sing tonight," laughed recording artist Norwood Young.
The performers are singing not to a recorded track, like karaoke, but to a live band that can jam.
"Everything is breathing. It's a living organism, and it's just...you can feel the heartbeat, you can feel the drums, feel the bass, feel the keys, you know," shared keyboard player Arean Alston.
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While Miranda runs the music, it's Robert Kim who created the place.
"My goal was to create a platform for local artists to come together and enjoy great music and enjoy great company and create a little platform for singers that can come and just showcase their talent," Kim said.
He wanted a modern-day Supper Club. He took a forgotten 1926 building and made it a Los Angeles destination. .
"This is where someone that's up-and-coming can come here and make the right connection with someone and become a star later on, who knows," Kim added.
It's a gracious invitation deeply appreciated by performers who just want a stage.