Every singing workshop I've ever led has always included someone who wants to sing "Summertime". I try not to roll my eyes or show the singer that it's not an original choice, as I'm trying to build up their confidence, but it's difficult. I suppose my take on the question is not so much why we sneer at some songs but more why do we choose to perform what we do? Especially if it's an oldie. No reason why any songs should be off the list - however, if lots of people do choose to sing songs that are such popular choices, the question remains - what makes them such popular choices?