I started gravitating to playing instrumental music as I got older.
 
I have, on a very personal level, imagined that lyrics and words amount to a sort of violence where upon you may impose your ideas on a listener, and it has occurred to me that the mere idea of ideas can place limitations on the reception your work. (I wouldn't want to press that point... I'm just sharing one of my personal ideas).
 
I have found that playing music that makes people's foot tap and gets them up and dancing is well received. If you can transcend the whole notion of style and genre than you can play to a very wide audience and what I have found is that the audience you do manage to attract has stopped by for the most simple reason; they just want to enjoy some music.
 
I find that satisfying, and I especially enjoy seeing people bring out the family because they trust that the day is simply about fun and music rather than a promotion, or display of any particular aesthetic.
 
Once again, I'm just throwing out some ideas, ideas that formed as I grew up and realized that what I enjoyed as young style cat just didn't fit me well as I started thinking like an older person. I try to play in way that reflects who I am now, I miss the passionate dedication I felt to style, but it seems natural to go with the flow.
 
 
Scott, that link I mentioned about memes in one of the previous posts is a good one. :-) I had hoped you might listen and start thinking about what you present as a Meme and what an audience expects as a Meme.
 
Looking at your experience with that sort of abstracted insight may make it easier for you to direct your musical message towards a eager and receptive audience.
 
I'll give you a hint where I am going with this; Do you think that audience came to hear a great band of stellar musicians or did they show up because that's where all the friends were hanging out that day?
 
You already know all this stuff... I'm just suggesting that there is a way to look at it that breaks it down and makes it easier to face.
 
Good luck.
 
best regards,
mike

Daryl likes going ape****.

Danny Danzi
...Ok, so we have cover bands around here that make $6000 per show. The age of the guys are 50's. Yep, you heard it. 2 guys...they go by Secret Service.
 
http://secretserviceonline.com/
 
One of the biggest most successful bands around here. Booked solid...nothing much to look at if you're a younger bar hopper. However, their music and fun draws you in. Keep in mind bro...these dudes use sequencers! Two guys....6k plus per night...all the NJ hot spots...down the shores....Atlantic City, Sea Isle City, Wildwood, Ocean City, Cape May....casinos....these are the best places to play. You can't even get into Ocean Drive unless you promise large numbers. Why do they do so well? The material and presentation.
 

Sorry for the OT...     But OMG, I remember them from the early 90's when I was playing the Philly area circuit.  I can't believe they're still playing!   And apparently doing very well at it.  I'm fairly sure it was the same two guys back then too, and if so, that alone deserves props.