We all need to read the book "Nigger", it details the changes in th meaning of the word better than any of us.
On the music issue, Susan points out some wonderful ideas about trust and comfort with an audience. I had really not spent much time on this issue, but you are very right about it. Trust is a major issue that can not be overlooked.
I also think that how we handle ourself on stage, the words we use, our body signals all help in our presentation. If we are not theatening in any way, we will have an easier time detailing hard subjects. I will have to think more on this later, I will check this list again tonight and see what other gems of knbowledge have been left.