I too agree with The poster of this thread, It is great that we all have our own opinions, its what makes this diverse world so interesting, but we do not need to try and convert everybody else to our particular point of view, That would make things much too boring! Folk Music, in my opinion, is for sharing. There are artists I do not enjoy listening to, but I can see why some people do and I can also see why some make more money than others. For me though the thing that makes traditional music, song and dance so great is the people involved - diverse and interesting, talented and friendly, with their own little opinions and at times big opinions! If only we could all embrace each others ideas instead of beating each other over the head with them!
Such is life, and this community is no different, there are a lot of people who are really passionate about folk and tradition, they are sensitive to its criticism and defend it with their whole heart, I dont think they are necessarily nasty people, though often they offend without perhaps meaning to. I admire their passion, but plead with them to understand that good dicsussion is healthy, reducing it to mudslinging is just unproductive.
May you all enjoy what you enjoy and I hope to meet more of you, in time, and share good music, fine song and happy times.
Cheers, Lucy