WesW
I think it's always chancy using humour directed against someone else . .
In this case, Ralphie (especially as a musician) is "unknown" to the great majority of people round here, and even within the UK Folk scene as a whole. So it's all too easy for your suggestion that he's not a "topline artist" to appear to be a serious remark.
Given the sterling work you're doing on Tony's behalf I imagined the remark was made light-heartedly . . So I hope I've caused no offence here, to anyone!
See you at Sidmouth . .
Cheers!
George