There's a big difference between having a drink and being drunk - If the artists is under contract (verbal or written) and cannot complete his side of the contract because he is drunk - he will (or should) lose his fee. I often drink alcohol on stage but have never been drunk whilst performing (and very seldom when not!)It must be down to the individual and/or the social occasion, I'm sure if the artist's regular performance was disliked because of his drinking, bookings (unlike the artist) would dry-up. If the artist is enjoyed whether or not he drinks the drink is about as important as the colour of his underpants!!!! Lets also remember that most of the folk music came from social occasions and gatherings where alcohol was flowing like water.....

Pete (Clansfolk)