I would agree that 'reading' a song rather than using the words as a 'crutch' is an insult to the song and to your audience.

However, it's worse to get part way through a song, forget where you are and either make a vain attempt to get back into it, or to switch to a completely different song.

Too often the performer's 'needs' seem to be given priority over the needs of the audience. Admittedly, the nature of the session does play a part, but we often hear people whingeing on about encouraging new singers without considering that there is possibly a new audience who also needs encouragement.

My gripe is with singers who should know better - they've been singing for years, yet haven't the manners to learn a single song!!

If you're going to sing a song in public you owe it to yourself to be adequately prepared... don't attempt a song you haven't learned unless your abilities will carry you through.

I'm not suggesting that every singer should be a polished professional, just that they should appreciate the audience's perspective and prepare accordingly.