'the person who thus labels themselves' versus 'who would probably barf at the prospect of being described as a singer songwriter'.

This indicates to me that, for you, the opinion of the music is not based on the label but who is doing the labeling. Please keep in mind that people in other countries and other cultures may not have that sensitivity to words as you, or even the same interpretations. While I've heard the title spit out by traddie Americans, I've never once witnessed this emotional reaction in Canada. It's also very hard for me to understand why any sane person would have an emotional reaction because of a job description.

Please understand that a person 'baring their soul' about their dislike of a title is every bit as objectionable to me as a singer/writer 'baring their soul' about love or pain is to them. The differences (other than the fact some people like the song are) the songwriter has a melody and a rhythm, and at the end, they stop.