It looks like iTunes 8 has compatibility problems with the LimeWire shared playlist. Also some iTunes 7 versions (I think 7.6 & 7.7).
If you have a version of iTunes 7 that works well & you're happy with it, I'd stick with that. I've gone back to iTunes 6. If you need info about reverting to an older iTunes, check out this post:
http://www.gnutellaforums.com/tips-t...tml#post327806