First, I'd like to personally say "Welcome!" to you, Dan.

I used to be here on these boards...a lot of the various boards...several hours each day. Things have changed in my life such that that isn't possible these days. That's probably why I missed you coming aboard. However, I hope to be here more regularly very soon.

I've been a member here almost 10 years and, as I said, I was very active up unitl several months ago. As far as your observations, I think they are mostly valid.

You just have to be somewhat familiar with the various songwriters in order to know how to approach them the way they would like to be be approached/critiqued. Everyone has a different level of sensitivity and "ownership" of what he/she has written.

Bill Robinson is one of my best friends, both here at JPF and on a personal basis. Bill and I are very honest with one another when we critique each other. If I told Bill "Hey Bill, sorry, but this one just doesn't pass the test...needs lots of help", he wouldn't be the least bit offended. He'd simply ask me where the problems were, in my opionion, and if I had any suggestions to improve them. And the same would be true the other way around. I have other friends here who would be somewhat put out if they were addressed in a like manner. So, I feel there is no right or wrong answer...just a little knowledge of whom you are approaching.

Everyone is going to take a little something different from his/her experiences here and offer a little something different with their own contributions. I do agree with Bill that folks should give us an idea of the type of critique they would like.

Oh, as far as Polly...she is such a sweetheart...and talented as hell, too! There aren't many styles she can't sing and make it convincing. And I always enjoy hearing her comments. You are correct about MAB's working knowledge of the business, particularly the Nashville scene, and his generosity in sharing it with us. And yep, Mike Downing is a great talent!

Again, welcome aboard and pour your heart into your music. Best of luck with your music.

Alan