I Often feel intimidated giving my two cents worth on these threds knowing that the class of musicians that will read what I have to say is mostly far above me but here it goes. I play a nursing home for my father in law (who had a major stroke) he can't speak english anymore, just german, but you can tell when he's happy! As for what to play I think it is best to play the stuff you love. The joy of listening is inhanced with the joy of seeing the performer get off playing what they love example B.B. making his Fuck faces when he is into the riff he is playing(excuse the language). B.B. would not be nearly as great if he just stood there and played deadpan! I believe if you play the songs that make you happy that joy will be shared by all. It would be a big mistake to play songs that you don't like or know! Noone would like to see James Taylor Do Gangster rap!
Raptor