Jerry mentions Mississippi John Hurt. It should be recognized that Hurt was "re-discovered" because of COMMERCIAL recordings that he made. Hurt wasn't singing on a backporch, he was singing in a studio and the idea was to sell records.

Jerry also mentioned Doc Watson. It should also be recognized that Doc's interest in music was rockabilly until someone told him about the folk revival that was taking place, and he re-examined his roots.

While both of these individuals are part of our "folk" heritage, their recordings were made to reach a larger audience.   The "vibe" and "intent" was not the same as someone recording into the microphone of a collector.

So who really determines what is "authentic"?   We all have opinions, and if you have to listen to an opinion - it might as well be your own.