Every third Thursday of the month, Indianapolis hip‑hop fans gather at The Health Club in Broad Ripple for Lyrics & Libations, a monthly open‑mic created by local emcees David “Simon Sed” Katz and Jeremy “Rhetoryk” McClure. The event provides a safe, creative environment where both emerging and seasoned rappers can perform, experiment, and receive encouragement.
Origins and Growth
The concept began in 2013 when Katz, then living in Chicago, partnered with Bradley Bullock (stage name Big Ole Lil Young Blaise). After moving to Indianapolis in March 2023, the open‑mic first found a home at the now‑closed Chromatic Collective space in Broad Ripple. When Chromatic shut its doors in January 2025, the organizers relocated the event to The Health Club, where it continues to thrive.
Artist‑Focused Atmosphere
“The people who come to Lyrics & Libations are looking for a safe creative space to perform and mess up if they need to — for something to push them forward and motivate them to keep growing as an artist,” said McClure, 34. Local rapper Apollo “T.G.I. Free” Freeman, who first attended in 2024, praised the respectful vibe: “You could tell that they were for the artists, and people had good artist etiquette. When another artist was performing, everybody was quiet. Even when someone tripped over words, everybody was encouraging.”
Balancing Aspiration and Expression
Katz emphasizes that the open‑mic is not about the hype of “everybody and their mom’s a rapper.” While acknowledging the perception that there are many rappers, he stresses the core principle of healthy self‑expression: “The world should have more expression, not less expression.” The event therefore welcomes anyone who wants to share original lyrics, regardless of fame or ambition.
Special Guests and Upcoming Shows
Lyrics & Libations occasionally brings larger acts to Indianapolis. In May, New Orleans rapper Jay Electronica performed an intimate set, and the series partnered with Late Night Munchies to host Detroit MC Boldy James on November 21 at Monon 30 (1118 E. 30th St.). The night will also feature local talent such as KoolKidKalvo, the duo Distinct and Baby Ebony, and Houston’s Looni. While the open‑mic portion will be shorter, participants can still sign up in advance to perform.
Impact on Local Artists
Freeman says the platform has already helped his career: “They’ve helped me out more than you can even imagine. They’ve booked me several times, and I’ve created forever supporters from Lyrics & Libations.” The event’s focus on community, mentorship, and artistic growth continues to make it a cornerstone of Indianapolis’ hip‑hop scene.
Original reporting: Mirror Indy — read the source article.
