Last months survey of Gig-Getter subscribers revealed that more than 50% of semi-pro and amateur bands play both covers and original material at any gig. the remaining bands play either exclusively their own material or someone else's.

So an interesting post here:


http://acapella.harmony-central.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2077423
 
about what's the most marketable era or type of covers for bands to play when they want to maximize gig numbers.

Useful info in some of the responses and if you care to scroll down to mine (posted today) you'll see what I've learnt helping acts around the world.

1. Playing covers AND original material will increase the number of gigs you can get
2. Even the most anti-covers band mate can get creative with a cover song by adding their own identity to the version  your band does.

Finally, and this is the one the original poster kind of missed out on with his post - you don't need to pick an era to focus on. In fact the more gigs you want t be playing, the wider your choice of material should be.

You'll need to have a lot of songs in your "portfolio" but you could consider having a 60's set, 70's, 80's, right up to present day. We also like to have a dedicated classic rock set for certain places. You can and of course mix these sets up when the type of venue or occasion calls for it.

This way, providing all band members are too precious about what they play, you'll be ready and available for any type of booking...