Sorry M.Ted, but I don't think you grasped what I was trying to say. It is far from "poison talk", it is being honest about how a songwriter can improve their craft.

Often family and friends will offer nothing but encouragement - as they are supposed to. REAL critiques will come from others that have experience and have studied various techniques and style. They can offer suggestions and true help.

As for ""Just because you can doesn't mean you should" - I can show you hundreds of submissions from songwriters who are still learning their craft. Technology has enabled everyone to technically record a decent sounding CD in their home. The quality of the song often is not quite ready for public consumption. These are people who spend their income putting out a product that is not ready. It is a rare individual that can come up with a quality song on their first try.

As I stated, and M.Ted seemed to ignore, I believe that people should NOT give up. If you truly wish to grow as a singer-songwriter you will have to put in dues. YES, you should attend open mics. If your intent is to be a performer, you won't get the experience elsewhere. Even if you are playing for a handful of selected friends, it is still stage experience.   You must open yourself up to criticism and be ready to experience people that are far tougher than I am, no matter what M.Ted thinks.

I have a huge respect for talented singer-songwriters, and I am honored to share their music on the radio. I am proud to introduce "new" artists to the audience, and I will continue to listen to CD's that are sent to me. Yes, as M.Ted said, I may not play it, but I cherish the opportunity to give it a chance. If an artist puts their time and work in, they have an excellent chance.