I suppose that for most folk performers, it helps a whole hell of a lot to have a "real job" to support a career as a folksinger. One way or another, many people do it. There are lots of really good performers around, and it is so wonderful to see them perform at house concerts instead of at big venues. And yeah, they have to make some sacrifices; but I think they have as good a time at their performances, as their audiences do. Debra Cowan does it exceptionally well, but I know she has to work really hard. I'm sure that's true for a lot of performers I see in house concerts. But they do it.
I am in awe of the people who host regular house concerts, where all the income goes to the performer. But the main thing is that if we want this music, then we have to do it. And we do it in so many ways.

It's not folk, but I have to be proud of my son, Nic Offer, who calls his current musical form "techno." He turns 50 this year, and has made his living as a musician all his life without making compromises. His band is !!! (chk chk chk). He's the one in shorts in the videos.

-Joe-