I think these things may come in phases, but I haven't been around long enough to know if I'm right. It may be a fascination with technical expertise. Almost anyone can sing, but playing an instrument takes a bit of work. It's a shame, really, because for me, that's what folk music is - something just about anyone can do, even if some of us aren't all that good at it.

Tommy Makem appears to have passed the love of the music on to his kids. I think his songs will continue.

MAG - I could listen to Cathal McConnell sing all day long.