I think there are three seperate issues here. 1.What is a traditional song, 2. what should we expect to find in the Mudcat database, and 3. what should be talked about in the forum.

1. I'm perfectly happy to let people who know what they're talking about define traditional songs and I'm glad they come here and share it with the rest of us.

2. The Mudcat database is called a "folksong" database. I think we all agree that, for better or worse, folksong no longer equates to traditional song. This database encompases all the many and varied definitions of folk (to the horror of some and the joy of others.) If Bruce had a database it would be a wonderful, useful, important thing. No one in their right mind would go there looking for Peter, Paul and Mary songs. On the other hand, it's good that people can come here to find Peter Paul and Mary songs, as well as the "correct" versions of songs done by PP&M.

3. The forum should have no limitations. The discussions will tend to be about things that interest people who also have an interest in the database, but not even limited to music (e.g. "Urban Myths.") If no one is interested in a thread, they won't respond. If someone is really on the wrong track they can be gently directed elsewhere.