I was going through an old folk folder fro some songs from the 70s and found a cutting from MorningStar Sat Dec 13 1975. by Bob Campbell and Leon Rosselson, 'Why folk has lost its roots among people'. He tackled social issues both head on and obliquely . He said he wasn't getting bookings from traditional clubs who wanted pastoral songs and jolly choruse who were escapists and isolated from the modern community. Since 1975 we have seen some 'protest' singers but it feels like we are back to the 'Imagined Village' of Georgina Boyes' book..

I'd be interested in what Leon might think about this subject today!
Mind , Peter Bellamy wasn't getting too many bookings either as I remember.

maybe the thread on Steamfolk is relevant.

What is the function of folk in today's situation?