It's important to please the AD and staff also, because if they enjoy the music, they will be more enthusiastic and the residents will benefit. And you are more likely to be asked back.
I do mostly 50's and 60's and even 70's. Always open to requests.
I advertise the nursing home show as "Old Time Rock n' Roll and Classic Country Music".
I always end with an upbeat Gospel song such as I Saw The Light, or I'll Fly Away.
DonM