I suppose it is a folk forum so there are bound to be people who have never heard of some of the best musicians and singers this old world has produced.

I take issue with Nick Cave's inclusion. His rendition of "Into My Arms" was played as we signed the registry book at our wedding last year. Haunting song, wonderful crooning voice.

Ian Dury fronted possibly the tightest rock jazz bands I have ever heard. the Blockheads are still, after his sad demise, touring and I aim to get to see them.

Jarvis Cocker is a local lad done well, and he can hold a note better than I can as well as tell the tale as it were.

Richard Thompson can sing, full stop. I always enjoy the bass pedal notes he used to harmonise with when Linda was singing, (Down where the drunkards roll being an excellent example.)

Shane McGowan and Billy Bragg?

They are far more interesting. If singing means holding a note then they are somewhat challenged, but if singing is anything to do with expression, then they express the words better than most.

Being in tune without singing is something I leave to some classical singers. I suggest you listen to, (but don't hit the buy button), Andres Scholl's album of English Folk (or at least the Vaughan Williams end of it) to hear what I mean about being in tune is not necessarily singing. Ok, he is, I think, German so singing by rote rather than joy of the language. Pure classical interpretation may be singingin tune but lacks the passion.

And... passion is every bit as important as pitch - Bragg, McGowan et al...