Well, it's a slow day for me so here's my two-cents: I just don't play pubs any more for all of the reasons you all have mentioned above and probably a few more.

Please know that I am probably older than most of you here, but my song sack carries songs from the 1800's to the 1990's and the twenty and thirty-somethings who are going into bars/pubs are simply not interested in what I do. As for the individual above who stated something to the effect that if you are a good entertainer you will find a way to get the bar patrons attention, I say - horseshit.

I do not recall who it was, but years ago I was told that the relationship between an audience and a performer is a communion that has two components that are absolutely required for the communion to work: an audience that is receptive, and, a performer who can. I would submit that in a bar setting where babes abound and t.v.'s are on - your receptive audience is miniscule.   

I would be willing to bet that in America, if you do current stuff, and other songs that are familiar to the 20 and 30 year olds, you will be listened to and your tip jar might get some attention; on the other hand - if you don't, you won't. Singer/songwriters, and folk types - forget it. Rock-n-roll bands, blues, Americana and pop bands who can raise the roof - you'll probably do all right.

For some of you folkie-type newbies, you might consider keeping your day job a bit longer and playing Starbucks, etc., for tips to cut your music teeth on. Take a look around and see what other options you can create for yourself, too. If you choose to play in bars - great, but be prepared to be largely ignored and left with a damaged ego. Cheers,.....................mwh