Good thread Doug. I think there is a place for both. As Kevin said I do get some feedback here and most of the time it is positive (although there is no shortage of constructive criticism) and it keeps us motivated. I struggle with who to listen to and who not to. All I can do is look at a persons profile so I really don't know them. I am a member of NSAI and have sent in three songs for critique so far. I guess you could say it is a paid critique as it comes with the dues. These critiques have been pretty spot on as to what was needed. But I have also gotten very good critiques here. I can usually tell the difference in a pro's critique and a relative newcomer. That's not to say there aren't very experienced writers here, there are. But I think there's an art (one I don't possess) to properly critiquing a song. And in the end, a critique is someone's opinion of a song. Whether it's my opinion or Jeffrey Steeles opinion it's an opinion. I enjoy the folks who critique my songs here and on other forums. I'm interested in hearing what others have to say.

steve

http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=460722370