Ron, hello.

Nope---I'd not seen your post about F.A.

My friends at the Folk Alliance, a while ago, got together and bought me a lifetime membership. I was very moved and recognize the tribute. Still, the F.A. is so high powered and biz-like now that the machine of it makes it hard for me to see how it has much to do with anything I ever knew as the folk scene--until the music starts. THEN I know there are similar aspects, and there always will be. I loved and existed within a revival I held in my own two hands---where I got my gigs from people who heard me and called to have me play their place--or to record for their label. And that maybe led to other gigs. I simply liked it better then. Much less red tape and paperwork and contracts etcetera. But I'm sure you know that. You were there then. This is different now, and I mean no offense to those of you who are a part of and find ways to enjoy the biz as it is today. I do not envy you though. I prefer the old small is beautiful subculture. There was so much less "monkey business for me to be involved in" as Chuck Berry said in his song. And as I grew more infirm, it was a real chore to deal with the rig-a-ma-roll. (spelling?) But it was the music within the subculture that kept the road life acceptable for so long.

Ron, that's just me--one guy's view. And I've been a part of the Folk Alliance for quite a long time now---and Hey Rube before that. I love watching all that they are doing.-----Now I'll go and find your post.

Art