I have a fakebook that I got in the early seventies, and inside the front cover there is a message to the musicians of the day. It read something like:
Today's brides are 20-something and listen to a brand of pop music that may not be YOUR bag ... if you want to work in the industry, you better know songs like "Proud Mary" or you will loose this valuable demographic.

That same advice is valid today - to be lucky enough to play music for money is not only a privilege, but a responsibility. The end result of any performance should be client satisfaction when money is involved, and if you intend to work in a fickle environment, such as entertainment – well, you better be flexible!

Since (semi)retiring to teaching, I have learned to savor my performances. I put more thought into what the crowd will want, and although I almost ALWAYS love the selections I choose – the crowd ultimately chooses the songs for me by their responses. It’s an honor to perform for repeat clients, and I look forward to learning even more of the newer, more “today” songs that I can do justice to. With all THAT said … here are a few gems that are on today’s charts (or not too distant relics) that I simply adore playing. Enjoy! (some spellings may be a bit off … I teach MUSIC, not ENGLISH!)lol

Jason Mraz – I’m Yours
Colbie Callait – Bubbly, Lucky(w/Jason Mraz)
Sarah Barellis – Love Song
Taylor Swift – White Horse, Best Day, Our Song, etc … it's ALL popular
Rain – Soul Sister (I play this on Uke!)
ColdPlay – Viva La Vida
Jaimie Cullum – Wheels, any of his standards
(this guy isn’t quite the hitmaker that Billy Joel was, but he has all his guts and energy – amazing performer)
Maroon V – This Love, Sunday Morning, Won’t Go Home Without You
Ingred Michaelson – Take Me The Way I am
Zack Brown – Toes, Highway 20 ride(drive)
Michael Buble, Haven’t Met You Yet

… this list is growing everyday. Listen to the “kids" stations every now and again – you just might like something! Add a few pop, contemporary tunes to you own bag and see what it does for your universal appeal. These songs are the “Proud Marys” of today – don’t get so wrapped up in your own styles and ignore the passing of time, or you might find yourself out of touch with the crowds that are paying for the music.

Also – research a top40 DJ list once in a while and bring along a few line dance trax to play on your breaks – the single ladies love ‘em and it’ll make you look like a star:
Cupid Shuffle is one that you may need to have for a mixed crowd dance party.
I’m just sayin’...

Have fun everyone – and remember – it’s why we play in the first place! FUN, fun, fun!
(thanx Brian Wilson)