I don't think that success is the folk world is any easier or harder than success in any other field of music.

If you want to be a classical musician you go to college, work like hell for 3-4 years, then audition for a job with an orchestra or try to make it as a soloist or by forming your own ensemble, which, I guess, is just as tough as trying to crack it as a rock or pop artist.

In rock, you form a band, write your songs, play gigs in pubs where no-one is the slightest bit interested in you, try to build up a following, get a record deal, etc., etc. Not easy.

Popsters, I guess, start by working with cover bands. (I had a taste of that once- never again!) Most of them probably stick around the club/function circuit. OK, they may make some cash but who wants to play "Agadoo" every night? Of course, you could always try The X-Factor...

Jazz- I would guess that it's as hard, or harder to break into the jazz scene than any of the others.

Wow! Just thinking about all this makes me realise how lucky we are; all those clubs where you can showcase your talent and (eventually!) get booked! What more could you want?