Dear GUEST, Regular 'catter etc.,

No art form can advance without criticism. I know plenty of people whose performances have benefited greatly through constructive criticism.
Years ago I remember doing a floor spot, at a club in Birmingham, and Charles Parker (producer of the 'Radio Ballads') took me to one side afterwards and gave me some tips on improving my performance. Far from being offended I was flattered and pleased. Not only that but Charles's insights were spot on and, after I had worked on the areas that he had mentioned, I really felt that I was a better and more confident singer.

As for Kate Rusby - well, her stuff is not really to my taste, and I have a perfect right to say so. Nevertheless, she is, as you point out, a successful commercial artist and good luck to her and her fans.