What can not be conveyed in a video is the rapport that a performer has with a live audience. When you sit in an audience listening to Jude Roberts you feel like he is singing to you exclusively. He makes a connection.

Yes, I know I can always draw a sellout crowd with Christine Lavin or with Danny Paisley & The Southern Grass like we did yesterday, or even with 25 of the best Sea Chantey singers like we did at our Mystic Benefit.

But I feel that as a concert promoter I have a responsibilty to the folk music world to give this emerging artist, that I truly believe has exceptional talent, a chance to be heard. I am gambling both, my reputation as well as my money on his performance, but I believe that he should get this one break that I can give him.