Jim Carroll, there are many, many who would care to differ with your opinion and believe that folk music does not have to just be performed by the toothless or poor to be considered "real" folk music. There are many, many fans of the popular folk music by the entertainers I mentioned and scoff at the elistist and snobbish definition of what kind of folk music they listen to for musical enjoyment only. They do not want agendas. They want music. Basically, they want you to shut up and sing.   Tommy Makem was a superb folk music entertainer who played to huge audiences. People liked his music and could care less about his politics. Believe it.

This is an age old arguement. It is also as devisive as politics itself. There is nothing wrong with folk music with superb instruments, smooth harmonys, nice clothes, and actually for entertainment. Perhaps some folk musicians should concern themselves more for what an audience actually wants to hear. Too many think it is just about themselves.