Theres a difference between, people who do what they can do, and those who set out to find out what is required - and do their damndest to supply it. Get it right and people will be willing to pay for it.

The backing tapes and a radio mic for example really made all the difference. Its what many of places loved about what I did. I made physical contact - kneeled down and squeezed an old lady or gentle man's hand - and sang them a song they loved. One old guy in a place I used to do every month had been a submariner - and he loved Red Sails in the Sunset. To do this and be non threatening, non invasive takes skill, because you are interpreting your delight at the music.

Also many people you sing for will have lost, or not have much sight - so when you take their hand you are providing another sensory stimulation - something you can't do, if you ar faffing round with a guitar.

As I've said, what lies at the seat of doing this thing properly is respect. Look around you; these are the people who built and fought for everything in our society. They had a sex life, they had a status - they had everything you've got, and they've washed up on this reef.

Your songs can take them back to places where their old friends and lovers and enemies lived. Remind them of a show they once sat and watched when they were courting. Many times I've had old ladies say to me, you know I first saw you sing before the war, and you haven't changed a bit. I was born '49.

In short its real folkmusic, for real folks. The depth of emotion you encounter makes the other stuff feel very tame.