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Two comments: First, a very accomplished and well-known singer-songwriter-guitarist of my acquaintance used to do background-music bar gigs. He told me he considered them paid rehearsal--he just sat some where inconspicuous and played his material. I'm told he even slightly disguised himself (knit cap pulled low) to reduce the chance of being recognized. Interestingly enough, for the last few years he has held down a weekly gig in a saloon (with, to be sure, a fully equipped pro-level stage and a sound guy) where he has a regular following and a pretty full tip bucket at every show.
Second: I'm no pro, but for 30 years now I've been playing regularly (not GJ) for small (as in laughable) money or good food, nearly exclusively in eateries and coffee houses. And there are always people who pay at least some attention, people who don't, and sometimes people who loudly carrry on with their own social business as though we weren't there at all. That, as they say, is the gig. The deli I've played most is also the home stage for the local folk society, so it has a more music-friendly clientele, so I suppose I'm a bit spoiled. And since this is not a career for me, just getting to play with my musical friends for (occasionally) appreciative listeners, in a space that values music enough to give us house-room is plenty. (I've played a few proper concert setting gigs and I find them stressful--though it's really nice when they go off well. Applause is very reassuring.)
Looks like a Ear Trumpet Labs Myrtle.
Not sure whether the following will make you feel better or worse, but:
It's the same situation for the top players in Paris. Go to Monk (Tavern de Cluny) to see Adrien Moignard or Sebastien Giniaux play, and you'll be astounded how many audience members are loudly talking the whole time, totally ignorant of the music.
I'm wondering, @B25Gib, how you responded to the "'We Are 'BACKGROUND MUSIC ONLY'" reprimand.
Personally, I think thats the bitter pill to swallow with this topic. But there are also the dangers of internalizing this mentality. As @MichaelHorowitz pointed out above, the venues & the audiences can take their toll over time by getting us to lower our standards.. not listening, just not caring as much.
Did two shows in Charleston SC this past weekend. First time playing live after a 10-year or so hiatus. First night a restaurant gig, second night a cafe hosting live music shows with a captive audience. Different vibe each night. In each situation, I am being paid to be an entertainer, so that’s my job. Assess the situation and crowd and play accordingly.
And as has been said already, the low key background gigs are great for nailing down your set list, working on sections and ideas (and not worrying about all those free clams I served up to the diners, lol).