It's a waste of time arguing

Jim has his views on what he considers to be folk music and the rest of us have ours - and despite what he says it is about what he likes and doesn't like as he shows no interest in the plethora of talent keeping the music alive and relevant. In the same way I am not that interested in listening to source singers - there is too much great music around in all genres for that to be something I would want to do. I do respect those who do enjoy listening to them in the same way I respect people who listen to Wagner operas it is just not for me

I'm just very glad that there are so many young people investing their time in performing and writing excellent music in the folk tradition and attracting new audiences. A few years back it looked like it may die out with those of us who have been around a long time. I am very grateful that has not proved to be the case - I'm also glad that lots of people are keeping us in touch with the music through online festivals and streaming of sets. Not the same as being there obviously but a great way to discover artists you have not come across previously

On that theme, the second Folk on Foot Front Room Festival is coming up this weekend with a great line up including Jon Boden