I've found that singing Herman's Hermits "I'm Into Something Good" hits every time. I introduce it as a song that just reminds me of going to high school dances. I was a bit hesitant when I first tried it, but after many performances, it always makes people smile. Written by Gerry Goffin (lyrics) and Carole King (music). How can you miss when you start with, "Woke up this morning feeling fine..."

Here's a heads up for all of us to consider (yes me too)... Senior Communities are quickly aging out from nostalgic songs of 1940's - 60's UP TO the 1970's and 80's. The day is coming fast when the Baby Boomers are going to have to share space with the early Gen Xrs in Assisted Living and even Memory Care. These Facebook Videos (below) are examples from the largest retirement community in the World called "The Villages" in Florida. (83,000 residents) They have live music 7 nights a week year round in 4 different town squares. (that's 28 different bands per week) The average age in the Villages is 74 years old and they are demanding to have the music of their youth played by live performers. These reels (below) are "average" level bands. They have other groups that are so much better than these guys you would swear you were listening to the original performances of Aerosmith, Queen, Led Zeppelin, Boston, and John Cougar Mellencamp. I'm just sayin'... I'm already mixing The Eagles, Steve Miller and Bruce Springsteen into my senior shows and seeing people singing along to every word. I would encourage us all to open our minds and songlists to newer songs because time is quickly running out on Rock Around The Clock. I agree that the Memory Care shows need some special kid gloves but with many Assisted Living and Independent Living situations we shouldn't be afraid to "Let'Er Rip". (just ask the Activities Director for permission to stretch your style - the one's I've asked have said "Please Please Please") https://www.facebook.com/reel/1082933464369169 https://www.facebook.com/reel/1646077297175778 https://www.facebook.com/reel/1087145053801513

Howdy, Team. I am getting so close now to reaching out to activity directors, that i'm getting a bit nervous. With Aaron Turner's as a model, I'm putting together a one page web splash with bio, contact info, and performance demos. my question: should I make phone contact first (including leaving a voicemail), or send an intro email w/ web link first, and follow that up with a phone call... perhaps it depends—but I'll take any perspective ya might offer.... thanks any case. - Jim