My apologies for not responding sooner. I've been dealing with some medical issues. When you are 76, you get to know the inside of doctor's offices quite well.
I will be looking at all suggestions in detail. RE: my style of playing - I'm just an old chord guy trying to get well - not a flat or finger picker so don't have the skills to play melody or lead. I should have mentioned that in my post - my bad. So, I guess, the simpler the better for me in terms of a "solution". But, if I read these posts carefully (and I will), I'm sure there is a workable answer (or combination of answers) for me somewhere.
Per John: I'm doing "covers", if you will, of some of the many BG songs I've heard, learned and played over the course of 50+ years. My wife of 50 years recently requested that I record "my music" for our grandchildren and others. That is my ultimate goal. Most of my jams with other pickers included a bass, but I am unable to work with those folks now - don't even know where they are at this point. Hence, my reason for looking at DAWs, VSTs, etc. to help recreate the "moments" as much as possible. I would certainly be interested finding free midi tracks of BG songs - also C&W & '40's - '60's hits. My wife is a big Ricky Nelson fan.
Per Kurre: I am looking very closely at JJazz and appreciate the suggestion.
Thank you to all who have responded so far. I will continue to monitor this topic. I had checked the option to "Notify me of replies", but received no such notifications. Don't know why. My email address is on file.
Stay safe!!
Ken in Kansas