Funny ... I never thought of folk music as having been in a state of demise. I knew there were lots and lots of individuals who were still into it. And, while the civil unrest in the 60's brought it more popular focus (how many people do YOU know who think Trini Lopez' version of "If I Had a Hammer" is the "real" verson) the individuals who have kept it alive are those of us who love it for the stories it tells. My personal story is that I was groomed for several years to enter Julliard to study opera, but when I "discovered" folk music in the early 60's, changed my mind. I loved the freedom and artistic license in singing it, but for the same reason I loved opera (and still do) I loved folk music for the stories. I've probably taken this thread a little far afield but thanks for posing the question ... Humdinger Folksinger