With no new messages in three days, it appears that this thread has played itself out. Both Warren and I appreciate the comments. Thank you one and all.

I would like to add that one of my favorite local performers is someone who is all showman. His guitar playing is pretty ordinary and his vocal ability is nothing to write home about, but can he hold an audience! From the moment he goes on stage to the moment he says "thank you" and steps off he is pure energy, and he transfers much of that energy to his listeners. Before they know it they are whooping, shouting, clapping, and sometimes dancing. And he gets everyone involved, little kids, old ladies, stage crew, gate keepers, I mean everyone.

As my brother said, it's best to be both a showman and a musician. But if I were forced to choose, I'd rather hear a showman like than any day.