I couldn't agree more with very first guest and pied piper. To cut a long story short, I used to sing in folk clubs in the early 80's, but got lured into 'country music'..could earn more money out of it. When I finally lost interest, but still fancied singing again. I thought about folk clubs again. Went to what was advertised as singers night in the Turks Head, in B'ham(UK). What a joke! A non musical pal came with me. I got in free cos I had the guitar, he had to pay. We were viewed with suspicion by the regulars,who got up to sing,complaining of sore throats, forgetting their words halfway,and the organiser stood at the back of the room booming out of tune bass harmonies to anyone who sang, paying no attention to their timing. There was no bar. You were only allowed out of the room to get a drink at the end of each sorry performance.We left after about 20 mins. My pal commented that he felt he had narrowly missed being sucked into some strange cult. I had to agree.
But I came home..and listened to Travis' exquisite version of Joni Mitchells 'River'..and realised that there is hope for folk music..even though 'herself' hasnt been folkie for years. An old song introduced to new people..Boy have I strayed of the thread!
Gato