I began performing in folk clubs in around 1965. The fight between "contemporary" and "traditional" was on from the start! Never took much notice of it myself. Much of the alleged "traditional" songs were were recently penned anyway. Including Ewan McColl songs! Anyway moving on to the subject in hand and "Heckling"

Heckling is an art form. It can be fun and it can be a nightmare it depends on whether it is amusing, controlled, not obtrusive and not offensive. The Heckler needs to know just when to shut the fuck up. Generally they do not. Billy hated hecklers. I know I toured with the guy.