"And if you can't sing, DON'T. Squeeky, polite schoolmarm and offkey, gruff dosser types please note. That's not an authentic or sharming catch in your voice, it's earache. "

I disagree. Folk music in particular gains from ordinary or even poor musicians. In fact, if you can sing like Pavrotti then don't make a folk album, but if 'sing' like Bob Dylan, fill your boots.