Didn't see it myself, but if he's gone all folky, it's because he's just released an album called We Shall Overcome, traditional songs most associated with veteran folk singer Pete Seeger.
The guy's never lost it. he'll still be holding audience's in the palm of his hand when he's 70, whatever type of music he's playing... he's never sold out either top class bloke and great rocker.
I agree. During the 80s and 90s he was one of those artists that I kind of liked without ever really realising it (if that makes sense). Then a couple of years ago I took a chance and bought his album The Rising...wow! Not a duff track or a filler in sight - cracking stuff.