John of Elsie's Band, I beg forgiveness. I have to admit that most of the songs that I sing and enjoy, are songs that were written in the last 100 years. Much of what would be considered purely traditional is too stuffy for me. What I look for is music that might be called approachable - songs that I can sing. I tend to prefer songs that have been around for a while, with a good number of songs that I know and have made part of my life.
When I think "singer-songwriter," I think of somebody who writes songs that only he/she can perform. I can only take that kind of song in small doses. I used to say the same about old ballads, but I've developed a tolerance and understanding for them, and sometimes almost enjoy them. Some people do a great job with ballads, and I can listen to them forever - Judy Cook and DebC are two prime examples.
-Joe Offer-