I agree that alloting a time limit is better than giving artists a number of songs. One singer I know, when given the 'finger' by the MC(ooerr, missus!) always opts for a 78-verse Child ballad or similar :(

Fortunately, I think the MC realises this and probably signals earlier than usual :)

At singarounds, I've noticed this same guy always does really long songs too - it's especially annoying near the end of the session when I'm looking at my watch and wondering if I'll get another turn in. And he always gives a long preamble too, then starts the song, makes a mistake, and goes back to the beginning, while I'm inwardly seething

>:-(