Remember the golden rule: K.I.S.S (Keep it simple stupid). I joined a new band that got tapped by a promotor. He supplied space and equipment, all new. He wanted us to learn 10 songs. Just 10. My friend and I were at least 10 years older than the others. The others wanted to thrash, we wanted top 40, easy music you hear everyday. We tried to comprimise but it didn't work out and the promotor dropped us. My Friend and I left the band and started another. We were booking gigs 4 months later. Because we kept it simple. After the first year we had groupies :D. The band got a percentage of the cover charge. We averaged $700 a night (4 guys) and played 3 nights a week. I left after 3 years to get a real job (my girlfriend was pregnant) that was 18 years ago. So there are actually 2 lessons here, K.I.S.S and don't knock up your girlfriend. :)