People are people no matter what and because of that there are infinite varieties of personal experiences among them. You would be just as likely to please with an attempt at Jo Stafford's "You Belong To Me" as you would with something of Hank's. To touch the memories of the most people, you would need to switch on the light to some common experiences. Most folks of the age of sixty or more, no matter what the ethnic background grew up with the radio close at hand. You could hardly go wrong with playing the songs that were on the airwaves in the 40's and 50's.

I like the idea of singing a few songs in various languages. But it can still be a rather iffy thing as far as selecting one that will be BOTH recognized and revered. For instance, an elderly person who grew up in Mexico might readily recall "Coplas"; but it could quite easily cause them to dredge up memories that perhaps might better have remained buried. It is a hard call.

I wish you the very best with your endeavors. I think it is a wonderful thing you are doing. Just bear in mind that you could probably do a fingertip balet while sporting a shaving cream tutu and would be greatly appreciated by a large part of the audience. They are just glad you care enough to be there and want to make the effort.