As a semi-pro singer with the accent on the "semi" - i.e. with a full time day job and performing for fun first and money second, I find that this is one of the dangers I face. I like the new songs that I'm still excited about best. Audiences like the ones they've heard before best. I have to keep reminding myself of this. If I'm getting paid, I have to think about their enjoyment first, and my own second. It's hard, when you start playing "out" at a relatively advanced age.

The exception is funny songs. If the audience is listening, or can be persuaded to listen, those go over well right away.