My point is Brian that no one is looking to find out. When you DO gig working class pubs. You get a bit of a shock in that you will find yourself being asked for songs you never knew existed - stuff that you simply wouldn't encounter on radio, tv, or in folk clubs.

Country and western songs somehow get adopted and adapted by niche audiences. there is activity going on.

Its life Jim, or shall we say its folk - but not as we know it.

When No Fixed Abode recently said sheepishly they had been offered folk gigs in a chain of caravan parks - the reaction from mudcatters was SO predictable. 'Oh you're going to be playing Agadoo and the Birdie Song.......

I just think we should give an ear to and accord similar significance to the people who are right alongside us in our communities.