ÍáÍáÂþ»­

BEMIDJI — Headwaters Music and Arts will host an Open Mic and CoffeeHouse featuring Paul Olson at 7 p.m. on Friday, May 2, at Headwaters, 519 Minnesota Ave. NW.

Olson, a Bemidji-based musician, traces his musical roots to Fort Ransom, N.D., a release said. His father, a finger-picking crooner with a deep love for Elvis Presley and classic country icons like Merle Haggard and Johnny Cash, instilled in Olson an early appreciation for heartfelt, honest music.

As a teenager, Olson found his sound through the chords and melodies of Nirvana’s "Nevermind" and Blink-182’s records. He began playing in bands during his teens, eventually joining a Fargo-based group called The Suit that gained national recognition in 2010, winning the Warped Tour Battle of the Bands out of 40,000 entries.

"In 2019, the passing of his father deeply reshaped Paul’s approach to music. Grieving and reflecting on their shared bond, he turned to songwriting as a way to process his loss and honor his roots," the release noted. "Some of those songs have found a home in his current band, Wildview, while others remain unreleased — private snapshots of a personal journey."

Outside of music, Paul is a flooring contractor, a loving husband and a proud father of two daughters, the release said. His life is a blend of work, family, and creativity, all of which fuel his songwriting.

Held on the first Friday of most months, the Headwaters Open Mic offers a welcoming and supportive community for musicians and spoken-word performers. All ages and skill levels are encouraged to sign up for a 10 to 15-minute set.

Sign-up begins at 6:30 p.m. or by email to jjhgaard@gmail.com. Admission is $4 per person and $10 for families. Coffee and treats will be available for purchase courtesy of Apple Blossom Village in partnership with Starbucks.