No Bonzo3legs, it's not tragic that someone needs to ask this question. It does matter what other people think when you are performing. That's why we perform. It's to share songs and to make contact with other minds through them. How we do this is not just about ourselves.
I think there are many wise and well-considered opinions on this thread from all kinds of performers. I think it's a valid question and a wise decision to ask it.
Cheers, Joy