If I had to list what I feel are the finest recently composed non-rock songs I'd be sure to include the magnificent "Mon Pays" (Mon Payee) by Quebec songwriter Gilles Vigneault. It is (to me) mindboggling in it's beauty. Music and lyrics describe the huge physical size and latent energy of Quebec so well. The song has been a rallying point for Quebec separatism (which I'm iffy on..but IT AIN'T MY CALL!) and if any Mudcatters can lay their hands on Vigneault's recording, I promise, you will be amazed.

In the late seventies, the most insipid English lyrics immaginable were written to this noble tune. It was called "From New York To L.A." and became a huge DISCO hit for Patsy Gallant.

If I ever had any doubts that the vast majority of the music business (including the folk music business) was fuelled by "money at all cost", they were dispelled when I heard that. Vigneault was first livid, then appeared totally crushed (despite the millions that would have come his way for the tune). He never again wrote anything that good.

Rick