I just don't see the McD's idea taking off. They want you in and out. Thats why the seats are so uncomfortable, true story.
A grand opening party I could go for but a regular gig there ???


As for myself I've been pounding on doors for months before this season hit. Before moving down here my gigs came from referrals and repeat business. Also had some close musican friends and we would toss gigs back and forth.
As a matter of fact one called me recently and I traveled 2.5 hours back up to my old area for a job. Job went excellent and I made NYE level money like the old days. Well worth the trip.

Here's my findings from here.

A. They use the same people yearly. I follow the listings and have seen the same acts booked in the same places for years. One place told me they only use acoustic music. They forget that the guitar player plugs in and uses backing tracks from his computer. They're just conditioned to the same guitar player singers they have always used.

B. They don't know me from the man in the moon. Everyone here knows everyone and I'm the new guy. Never even get a chance to play to let them hear me and then judge. Another place told me my card was too fancy for them. I told them I can play all the typical beach music stuff they want. Even country.

C. Yes, its true now, I'm older, white hair and all, and there is definatly a big age prejudice in the business here. If your part of an established act you can slip by but as an unknown solo no good. Just look at the barmaids LOL!

D. There is virtually no senior business here. NH just don't hire music, only if its free or for a stupid almost free price. A drummer just called me and asked if I would do a gig at a NH as a trio with a female vocalist. Of course I would have to bring the PA ( she doesn't have one or any charts) and put together all her tunes. PAY -- hold on now -- $32. $100 for the trio for 90 minutes. Sorry I don't think so.
One DJ got fired from a longtime gig because he had a following of senior line dancers. They take over the floor and they don't spend. Some bring they're own water.

The few things I've done have gone over great but little to no repeat business.

Trying to start something on Sats. at a CC here because that's the crowd I want to play to. Played there once for season opening dinner dance and they loved me. The members told the manager "why don't you have him on Thurs nights?
Thats the clubs only music night and guess what. She's already booked up--- guitar player singers you can't dance to. They're getting a new chef and starting dinner service so we'll see. Also lining up some parties at the hotels that cater to the senior bus trips. Again, they don't know me so its a tough sell.