I learned how to sing and play by listening to and imitating Peter, Paul and Mary. As a fifth grader I had no idea of the source or history of the songs they sang. As I grew older I became aware that they blended their repertoire with very old songs and new songs. I began digging into some of the older material and found a wealth of great music. Music, regardless of style, always builds on something that has gone before. It is not a bad idea for musicians to have a sense of the history and sing/play some of that history. As I have delved into the "Let's Get America Singing" catalogue, I have been surprised to find that I really enjoy songs like "Give My Regards to Broadway" and "Edelweiss". And, audiences seem to really enjoy them, too!
Peace, Rick Hill