Over the years, anyone develops a reputation. Ours is pretty good. Still, there is some confusion. So for those of you who don't get what we're all about, here are the answers to some frequently asked questions.
Q— Is the Lipstick Lounge a hangout for a... specific type of person?
A— Yes, we are a bar for human beings.
Q— Seriously, is it a lesbian bar?
A— We are a lesbian-owned bar, but absolutely everyone is welcome here. On any given night, our crowd is equally male as female. Our clientele are from all walks of life, all races, all religions, all sexual orientations, all ages, all genders, all political persuasions, all social levels, all economic groups. We are the most diverse hangout you're going to find.
Q— But it's a gay club, right?
A— No. It is a gay-friendly club, but again, everyone is welcome. When you come in, you are likely to see affection between members of the same sex. As long as you're okay with that, you will be fine here.
Q— I'm straight. Won't lesbians [or gay guys] hit on me?
A— Unless you are just wildly hot and making kissy faces at them, it will be like any other bar. The Lipstick Lounge isn't a meat market. Regardless of your sexual orientation, if you are receiving advances you don't want, just say "no." If they persist, let us know and we'll kick their ass.
Q— We're a couple looking for a threesome... can we find somebody at the Lipstick?
A— Your chances are as likely (or as slim) here as anywhere else.
Q— Where are the drag queens?
A— At other nightclubs. Although we support the transgendered community, we do not offer drag as entertainment.
Q— What kind of music does your DJ spin?
A— Generally speaking, Top-40 oriented danceable hip-hop.
Q— Know where I can get some crystal?
A— We know where you can get Krystals, up on Gallatin Road. We know Crystal, our bartender, but you probably can't get her, she's very picky. As for crystal meth, let us make it clear: no kind of illegal drugs will be tolerated on the property of the Lipstick Lounge. If you are seen taking or exchanging drugs here, we love you enough to call the police and have your ass hauled away. No ifs ands or buts.
Q— What age do you have to be to get into the Lipstick Lounge?
A— We are strictly 21 and up. No exceptions. No questions. Don't ask.
Q— Is _____________________ seeing someone?
A— Both the owners are in committed relationships. As for anyone else, we don't keep up with that. Ask them.
Q— What's upstairs?
A— A quieter seating area with tables and chairs, as well as our dart room (ask the bartender to give you darts to play with). We also have some TVs up there so you can see the action downstairs, and a couple of classic old-school video games (Centipede and Ms. Pac-Man, naturally). It's a beautiful and relaxing place just to chill. Our private party room is also upstairs.
Q— Private party room? Tell me more.
A— We are open every night of the week but Sundays and Mondays, but we can make arrangements for your group.There is a room upstairs that you can rent out for your posse to hang out in a totally posh, very private space. Contact Rachel about viewing or renting the room.
Q— Got a TV?
A— One of the things that contributes to our atmosphere is that you can talk without being distracted by Bowflex commercials, the latest from Iraq, or CSI. You can watch TV at home... talk to your neighbor, buy them a drink... communicate! You'll be surprised how much fun it is. But if you really must see the game, we have a couple of TVs upstairs. Ask a server to change the channel for you.
Q— Why is the karaoke here so damn good?
A— This is Nashville, baby, everybody sings. Among our karaoke regulars are some of Music Row's best musicians and singers. Plus, we have an enormous library full of diverse musical styles.
Q— How can I get a job at the Lipstick Lounge?
A— We don't hire often, but check with Christa.
Q— How can my band get a gig at the Lipstick Lounge?
We are currently looking for artists who have strong material and a good stage presence: we like small, stripped-down rock-n-roll bands, party bands, acoustic singer/songwriters, and "unplugged" acts. If you fit the bill, send a press kit including bio, CD, and photo to:
The Lipstick Lounge
1400 Woodland Street
Nashville, TN 37206
ATTN: Musical Director
or send your EPK to: music@thelipsticklounge.com
No acts will be considered without the above information. Thank you for your interest.
Q— I wish there were a Lipstick Lounge in my town. Are you planning to open others?
A— We'd love to talk to you about franchise options. Contact one of the owners, and let's discuss the possibilities.