Most open mics we go to are paid to play but the fees are much reduced. There is never an entrance fee or hiked up bar prices. It allows amateurs to play with pros and pros to play with guys they do not normally get to play with. It allows practice of new material, experimentation and a chance to hook up with old pals. It is more a social gathering than a paid gig.
The audiences are usually knowledgable and ask for requests, a thing not usually done at proper regular gigs. The bar makes extra cash from a "normal" quiet night and everybody is happy. If we are not happy with the bar or the operation then we excercise common sense. We take it and the extra custom some place else.

http://www.soundclick.com/bands/songInfo.cfm?bandID=687727&songID=5238055