However you draw it - being a folksinger isn't what you'd call the most stable form of income.

Even really good successful blokes like Bernard Wrigley use their performing expertise in other things like acting.

You run the danger of the purists saying that you're not really a folksinger if you work in other arenas tha folk music, but really you have to look out for number one - if you want to be an artist.

If, as it seems you are experiencing problems with being accepted as one of the chosen few of folk aristocracy - then you reallly have to shift for yourself. look at what you have to offer as a artist and sell it girl.

Some folksingers work in education - taking folksong to school kids. I think Brian peters does this. Some work as session musicians. Phil Beer used to do this. Isla St Clair was a TV presenter.

If you pick up the balls and bravery to be showbiz footsoldier in folk clubs - take it wherever you can.