...of course there have ALWAYS been political elements in lots of 'folk' songs!...The difference is in how they are used. Some performers today are very open in their use of music to promote a message..(Terry Leonino & Greg Artzner.."Magpie",Bruce Phillips, even Michael Cooney was pretty heavy at times..[he often preached more than he sang..*grin*])...but others will sing just because it's a good song, just as I know Jewish singers who sing gospel songs because they are taken with the SONGS. As to being left-wing, etc...it is like the discussion of why there are more songs of UN-requited love...those who HAVE all they need are too busy to write songs, and have no need to announce it!