Then I apologise for extending it, but I think you've raised the point of the music "permeating the culture". I rather doubt it ever did. Were the songs more widespread, why did collectors have to go to some much trouble to find them, and why are so few examples known of many? I don't believe singing, or music, has ever "permeated the culture" beyond hymns in church (or their equivalent!), national anthems and marches, plus something to entertain the crowd at events such as weddings.

Obviously it is tempting for singers and musicians to feel that their enthusiasm has (or had!) great widespread support, but it seems much more likely to have been a genre activity. A "good thing" yes, absorbing for those involved, entertaining for those just passing. But a minority interest. The songs would pass on withing the genre, and those in other minority interests just wouldn't notice it. You'd be amazed (or perhaps not) how many aircraft modellers never stick their head in a model railway show!

As a resident Fylde folkie, it has been my good fortune (OK, small bragging rights!) to be aware of Ron's collection, and the work done by Ross and Ron together. What is delightful is to see this work achieve a wider audience, and what the responses have been. Time to take another look, perhaps, so thanks for the reminder.