EddieR, good for you and your Brother Robert for putting on a local songwriting show. Don't feel bad Brother, the era of live music has almost past as we once knew it (back in the 60's), meaning back when I was a pup and you had long since been weaned. Ha!!!
If I may share my opinion; but realize I don't know what the hell I'm talking about. Large music cities like Nashville, and even the FB Festival you and Robert attend, are known for songwriters singing their original music. Folks know that going in and look forward to hearing the artist's perform their original songs.
In other areas across the country (not known for original music), less emphasis is put on original aongs; but the audience may be expecting a band or artist to perform cover tunes they are familiar with. Coffee houses are known to encourage orignal music and allow the artist to play thier music or perform songs made famous by others. Maybe you should look into a venue like a coffee house; which would encourage original songs and allow you to sell your CD's.
OD
Hey guys, I apoligize for my larger font; but that small print is just too hard for this old guy to read.