When there’s more than two years between albums, audiences can get disengaged.

Music and styles can quickly become old, and audiences can be fickle. Imagine trying to connect with audiences when you’ve been playing since their parents were in diapers.

Lonnie Brooks has been playing for almost 50 years. He’s played with some of the greats — and outlived many of them. He’s bringing his experiences and eclectic music to the M-Shop this weekend.

“I’ve been around a long time to see music go through all types of changes,” Brooks says.

Though there are artists and styles he may not understand, Brooks says he does not judge or wish to discredit any current artists.

“I love all music,” Brooks says. “When you don’t understand something, you may not listen to it as much as what you do understand.”

No matter what direction the music industry is taking, Brooks says he is able to adapt.

“No matter what you’re listening to, you can probably deal with me,” Brooks says.

“I’ve seen my audiences gettin’ a little bit older and a little bit younger,” Brooks says.

Regardless of age, Brooks says, he is able to connect with his audiences as a whole. The people who come to see his shows are growing up, aging, getting their kids interested and bringing their friends. He says his music is universal in a way so that age does not affect understanding.

“I try to work with the audiences, whatever the situation or place,” Brooks says. “I play a few tunes to feel them out.”

Brooks says he aims to please his audiences above all else. If they’re sitting down and aren’t responding to the upbeat songs, he’ll alter his song list to please and relax. If they’re energetic and ready to rock, Brooks keeps them going.

And Brooks delivers all over the world. He’s toured all around the United States, Europe, Australia, Japan and Brazil.

“I’m not a superstar, but I’m known,” Brooks says.

Brooks says fame was won more easily in Europe. People respond to the blues better overseas, he says.

“The promoters treat the blues like we treat rock ‘n’ roll [in the United States],” Brooks says.

It’s rare for non-U.S. citizens to be exposed to this type of music. Brooks says his foreign audiences are limited in their opportunities to experience true blues and that they take advantage of this more than people in the United States.

“I think what we do here is take it for granted,” Brooks says.