Bill, I agree with you in part. But I think it is all subjectivity. Do you agree?

I've heard many astounding songs redone that were every bit as artistic as the original. I think you might have a point when the performer forces a tune. When that happens, I try to tactfully arrange a layout of my methods and opinions and see if some common ground might be found. I used to have great distaste for Arabic and Japanese music (some of it still grates) until I sat down and studied the forms.

Most finger pointing originates from snobbery and competition, two things I can't abide in music. Hell, my parents couldn't stand Bob Dylan and some people still can't. Doesn't take away from his talent though, does it?

I've played command performances for the Dallas Symphony Orchestra and I've played places I wouldn't take you or my dog. In every place, I've managed to mangle something (even if I was the only one who knew it).