Frank Turner, always makes me think, usually makes me smile

jeffrey lewis – arrow. i'm sure there're plenty of people who'd describe it as sub-velvet underground, but i think it's totally amazing.

Reluctant – I think Handsome Family are husband and wife team, he writes the music and she writes the words. I have a book of short stories by Rennie Sparks its quite scary.

Bob Mold for me in Sugar, close draw with Colin Macintyre of Mull Historical Society.

Although obviously I mostly listen to reggae and gangster rap.

Elton John with lyrics by Bernie Taupin ( yes I know you said only one but they're like Lennon and McCartney).

Love lies bleeding in my hand.

David Walls, AKA Ginger from the Wildhearts. Despite heroic efforts to destroy his talent with drink and drugs, still sh*ts great songs. Can't name a best track but most of his B-sides would be career best singles for other rock bands. Oh, let's say Do Anything but if I was to choose another one in 5 minutes it'd probably be something else.

But if I was allowed 2, number 2 would be Colin MacIntyre I think. And best track, Your Love My Gain.

Can only be Richard Thompson. Such a variety of song writing and the diversity of his guitar playing from heart aching ballads to blisterring solos hasn't been equalled in my opinion.

Jimmy Webb – Wicheta Lineman
Gets me by the heartstrings every time…..

Beethoven 6th.

NUff said.

Christ, c_g, you don't go for the easy ones, do you? Damn, there are just so many it's almost impossible to make a choice. Favourites would include:
Patty Griffin
Emmylou Harris
Laura Marling
Gemma Hayes
Kris Delmhorst
Tom Waits
Paul Simon
Peter Gabriel
*sigh* I suppose if I have to choose one, it would be Peter Gabriel, for sheer consistency right through his entire career. As for a song, just as difficult, but San Jacinto from PG 4 just shades it.
Tomorrow, it could be any of the above.

best song writer and wordsmith in my honest opinion is Martyn Walkyier from the folk metal band Skyclad.

You lost my memory- the lyrics just sum up every nasty hurtful breakup
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-6__payz_yw&feature=related

some great song and album titles:
the silent whales of lunar sea
Folkemon
great blow for a day job
thinking aloud?
single phial
inequality street

I would also second New Model Army- Green and Grey or small town england

Difficult but will go for Shane MacGowan. Song choice is 2A Pair of Brown Eyes" today, could be different tommorrow.

Steve Earle today.