I really don't understand why people are getting so vexed about this award.
Donovan fits in perfectly in the Mike Harding remit. An artist that old people might vaguely remember from the sixties who might have been considered a "Folkie" (define please...Oh no, please don't!)
Don't you all realise that the award is only there to enable the Mike Harding/John Leonard show to renew next years contract?
Absolutely nothing to do with promoting English Music. I could name 50 English people who are more deserving of an award, and you could do the same.
But, Smooth Operations is pandering to X Factor listeners. Bums on seats, etc.
What amazes me. is that you are all so surprised! Did you really think that Doc Rowe, Scan Tester, Tufty Swift, would be awarded with anything???
Of course not. It'll be someone (preferably American) who happens to be on tour in February, and John Leonard knows their management company.
Smooth Operations are trying to keep their programme. That is all.
We all know who should win "gongs" but they never will!
It's actually good fun over the Christmas holidays, playing the "Which fatuous Amrerican is going to win this year" game!"
Turns out that It's Donovan next month. Ah well, could have been worse..Incredible String Band anybody?