Hi - I have just re-read RR's sleeve notes on the Doc/Clarence Ashley CD, in response to reading this thread. I think Will is right in carefully raising the debate about "authenticity" as it continues to be a topic with currency on both sides of the Atlantic (and I guess in the southern hemisphere too!). RR does appear to have been genuine in his appreciation and respect for Doc, and perhaps the advice to focus presenting himself in a certain way came from good motives in wanting to help develop a career for Doc. However, there is the law of unintended consequences to consider: so the separation from family and the health impacts of touring stresses are also part of the story.

One of my own favourite Mudcat tales on this topic comes from Jean Ritchie who relates a story of being onstage with Maud Karpeles who confidently proclaimed that Jean could not be considered an authentic source singer, as she had been to university!