"It is usually wise to have some knowledge before opining. It is one of the fetishes of our time that the opinions of the uninformed and irrational are as valuable as those of the informed and rational". (Quote from Richard Bridge, above).

Amen to that, Richard!

And to all of you who insist that they are "entitled to their opinion", yes, of course you are! But I am also equally entitled to disagree with it! Additionally, there is absolutely no 'rule' which says that I have to respect your opinion (it's a tough old world!).

I have a particular lack of agreement and respect for the "all music is folk music" opinion. This is because I suspect the motives of those who so opine. I suspect that you hold this opinion because you want to perform (or to listen to) pop/rock music in a folk club. Well, go ahead, play or listen to what you like, I CAN'T stop you! Just don't expect me to approve, that's all ...

Oh, I get it! You don't actually have the courage of your own convictions, you want someone else to take responsibility for your choices and you actually crave approval - am I getting warm?