Martin, I agree with you. I've always felt that folk music is a living tradition. Monroe, and others, developed their own style. Imitation can be flattering, but shouldn't the inovation continue? People created the music on whatever instruments they had available. I'm sure that if electricity were readily available hundreds of years ago, troubadors would have had amps and Fender guitars.

I happen to love acoustic music that would be defined as "traditional" and I find myself listening to that type of music most of the time. I like it straight up with as little production as possible. However, I also happen to love many singer-songwriters who add electric instruments that aren't considered "folkie".   Why should I have to choose?    Sorry Freightdawg, I just don't think it is necessary to put everything in such tight boxes.   Like a good buffet table (here I go with another food analogy) I think it is best to have variety and people can pick and choose what they like.   Nothing has to be "the best".

Leadfingers - why have a "normal" conversation in any live music bar? If you are there to hear the music, isn't it rude to have a conversation while it is being played - acoustic or electric???

Ron