"you've turned it into a slanging match. by disavowing what we call folk music to be folk music"
No I haven't Al - I've disagreed with you, no more - that is what these arguments are about.
"the fierce rejection is mostly on your side."
You mean I'm oly allowed to disagree if I do it gently?
I suggest you read some of yours, Muskett's and Bounty Hound's postings, which range from contemptuous and patronising to downright insulting - to me and to the old singers who one of you in particular has taken time out to personally abuse.
I have argued my case strongly because I believe the subject to be important.
I have a definition that suits me - I have given enough examples to show that it suits others equally as well.
Unless you - or somebody else, provides an equally logical and acceptable, that is the one that will survive long after all thee clubs have disappeared.
You have yet to provide an alternative, your main argument being that my take on the subject doesn't attract big enough audiences.
If that were relevant, we may as well all piss off home and leave the field clear for Jedward, Kylie and Lady Gaga - they all attract bigger audiences than any of us could hope to draw in a lifetime.
Give us a break Al - and give us a definition we can work with
Jim Carroll