I will generally just stay away from these circles. I don't begrudge folks the ability to sing, I just don't belong in a circle that requires one to use a particular version or lyric. As those that know me can tell you, I have my own way of singing based on what I hear in the song, or the message I want expressed. Usually that means that folks that are locked in to a particular version have a hard time.

Let me tell you about group singing from another perspective, though. I was the subject of an interview, and one of the questions had to do with my favorite moments. I told them what it was like to sit in front of a very savvy and talented bunch of folkies, doing my version of a song. I described how they listened carefully, figured out what I was doing (which was off the "beaten path" a bit), came up with a perfect harmony for the chorus, and chimed in at exactly right time. I will never forget the feeling while those wonderful voices came back at me, interpreting the song with me just as I intended. This occurred at the FSGW Getaway, and has happened several times. I can hear the wonderful voices as I type this. I will go to my grave remembering this very powerful moment.

I think my friend Dick Greenhaus has the right of it. RUS is fine as long recognizes it for what it is. I have never felt the need to buy it, as I have better sources.

BTW, if I were going to recommend a couple of song compilations to someone, it would probably be the collected reprints of Sing Out. I have both copies, and use them as a starting point for many songs.

All the best,

Mick