This is really a global issue of respecting and celebrating the traditions behind who we are. In that spirit I chucked the following on the fire

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Sirs;

In perusing your web site regarding Liverpool as a Capital of Culture, I was extremely disappointed not to find any events celebrating the one art form that I know for sure was born and bred in Liverpool - the sea shanty!

I hail from New Orleans, Louisiana, a world class sailor town in its own right and, in the 19th century, paired with Liverpool as a major source of immigration and an equally important destination for cotton and sugar. Virtually all your pop music has its roots here while all of our maritime culture, including sea shanties has its roots in your fair city.

In the wake of Katrina, we recognize just how fragile our singularly unique cultural traditions are and that they must be nurtured and revitalized by programs such as your Capital of Culture and our New Orleans Jazz and Heritage festival http://www.nojazzfest.com/

Unfortunately we, in New Orleans are succumbing to the same tendencies that appear to be afflicting Liverpool. We seem to be transitioning from a festival OF New Orleans culture to a cultural festival IN New Orleans. With much of our native cultural heritage dispersed to other parts of the country and the world as a result of Katrina, not reconnecting with our traditions and roots is all the more deplorable.

I trust Liverpool will find space to show case sea shanties as one of its indelible contributions to popular culture in its truest sense. If it doesn't it may some day disappear to the loss of the world, Were sea shanties included, I, for one, would consider visiting Liverpool. Otherwise I can find better in New York, Berlin or Austin, Texas.

Respectfully, K.C. King
5919 Pratt Drive, New Orleans, LA, 70122 USA