Idolise is an interesting word, Al. Taking its true meaning, to adore, revere, worship, etc., I think there's only ever been one musical figure like that in my life - well over 50 years ago - and that was Davy Graham. "The Guitar Player", "Folk, Blues and Beyond" and "Folk Routes, New Routes" turned my thoughts about the guitar and musical styling on their heads. The idea of crossover and bringing diverse musical genres together was, for me, incredibly interesting and has stayed with me ever since. Sadly, as we all know, Davy flowered and withered in a comparatively space of time, but he was the major musical influence for me in those days.

And, returning to the thread topic, Alex - seasoned entertainer though he was - was, by comparison, old school. Just my personal opinion.