I disagree with the contention that there are (only) two kinds of folkie and, further, with the implication (Mr. Happy and Mr. Red) that folk is not entertaining. Folk used to be inclusive; there was a whole spectrum of performers, from amateur to professional, and also an audience, who were entertained by folk music and dance. There always were those who would proclaim - entirely on their own authority - that "there should be no such thing as a professional folk singer". It seems that the folk world is increasingly polarising, and that tese naysayers are being joined by another group, who despise the amateurs. Where is this leading us? Not anywhere I want to end up.
Let me declare my interest. I am a professional folk singer. I am also a dancer, which is an amateur activity - in fact, it costs me money, which I can't really afford. I am entertained by folk music and dance, which is why I've been involved with it for forty years. If there are people who are sufficiently entertained by what I do that they are prepared to pay to listen, I can see no reason why I should not be a professional. Anyone who does not like professional folk entertainment is not obliged to listen. I long for a return to the old days, when, if you so desired, you could go to a folk club and be entertained by a semi-pro resident group, a pro- or semi-pro guest, and some floor singers, who could be either of the aforementioned or complete amateurs. These might not be the best singers you'd ever heard, but it wasn't a contest, and they were entitled to their two songs. And this was all to entertain a group known as 'The Audience' - which could include performers as well as non-performers. There was nothing immoral, improper or sleazy in this, as seems to be implied by certain comments above. In fact, anyone who wants to make sneering comments about this being 'money-driven' is welcome to try doing it for the sort of money I'm earning; I don't think they'd persist for long, and they would realise that there sre some of us - I'm not unique - who have more commitment than that.
I agree with The Snail's comment, but things seem increasingly to be dividing into two camps. Why?
John Kelly.