Rachel, if only there were more like you. That last paragraph is "nail on head" stuff i.m.h.o.why would anybody want to travel to a venue to hear music that thay can play at home? and sing along to every word. I know many people who get very upset if they don't know every single tune that's played. I'm running an upfront night myself, and struggling to get people in, but at least the ones who attend are there for the right reasons. And as long as I can break even, I'll keep going.
It is very depressing though when you see the attendances at oldies nights. Can't understand it myself. The buzz that I get when I hear a new tune that blows me away, just can't be beat. WHAT IS THAT, I MUST HAVE IT, PLAY IT AGAIN. That's what it means to me.
Wish you lived closer, you'd be very welcome at my do. Phil.