I will agree that I personally liked Van Ronk more that Waylon Jennings (although each might be more suitable for different moods and locales).

But neither one detracts from the other; they were both fine contributors to the music and life of all.

Both brought an iconoclasm to the art, refusing to buy in to the commercial and play to the crowd. Each was happy to make their _own_ music.

For this, and for many reasons, they will both be missed.

Should we encourage more people to get to know the lesser known Van Ronk? _Absolutely_! In many ways, the music of today can be laid at Van Ronk's feet, even if the listeners don't know it. They should. While I didn't know the "Mayor of Greenwich Village" personally, he was indeed a friend of mine.

Cheers,

-- Arne Langsetmo