Folk songs change. That's what makes them folksong.

However, There is one area in which I personally draw the line. Some of the most "ignorant writers" mentioned above were the American black slaves. They are also responsible, directly or through influance, for must of the great music we have today.

I know, and pretty much everybody (to whom I sing)knows that the past tense of fight is fought not fit. Whether it be for grammer or for political correctness, most people sing "Joshua fought the battle of Jerico". However, it doesn't trip over tongue like "Joshua fit the battle of Jerico".

So, I don't care about grammer. I don't care about political correctness. I don't care who I may offend. The men and women, iliterate slaves though they be, who created these wonderful songs are so far above me on the musical ladder of creativity that to change their lyrics just to correct grammer would be impudent on my part.

This is the way I feel and I wouldn't think of putting it off on anyone else.

John VZ