Trying to find the best folk albums can feel like wandering through a sprawling, timeless forest. There's so much incredible music out there, waiting to be discovered. This guide cuts through the noise, highlighting essential albums that showcase the genre's depth, storytelling, and enduring power.
At a glance:
- Folk music is "of the people," passed down through generations and reinterpreted.
- The best folk albums feature strong storytelling, often with acoustic instrumentation.
- Artists like Bob Dylan, Joni Mitchell, and Simon & Garfunkel are staples of the genre.
- Contemporary folk blends traditional sounds with modern sensibilities.
- Exploring folk music means connecting with heartfelt and culturally significant sounds.
What Exactly Is Folk Music, Anyway?
Defining folk music is a bit like trying to catch smoke. It’s easier to feel than to define precisely. Generally, folk music is considered the music "of the people." Think old songs with unknown composers, passed down orally, and reshaped by communities over time. While primarily acoustic, modern folk arrangements often incorporate contemporary sounds, differentiating them from straight-up pop.
The Grammy's Take on "Best Folk Album"
The Grammy Awards offer a more concrete, albeit still somewhat broad, definition. Their "Best Folk Album" award (created in 2012 by merging the "Best Contemporary Folk Album" and "Best Traditional Folk Album" categories) recognizes "artistic achievement, technical proficiency and overall excellence" in albums featuring authentically folk material. This includes both traditional and contemporary works that utilize folk elements, sounds, and techniques. The award goes to the performing artist (if present on at least 50% of the album), the producer, and the engineer/mixer. The Civil Wars won the inaugural award in 2012 for Barton Hollow. Chris Thile, Gillian Welch, and David Rawlings have each won it twice.
Foundational Folk: Albums That Shaped the Genre
Certain albums have become cornerstones of folk music, influencing generations of artists and listeners. These are the records that cemented folk’s reputation for poignant storytelling and raw emotionality.
Bob Dylan: The Voice of a Generation
No discussion of the best folk albums is complete without mentioning Bob Dylan. Albums like The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan (1963), Bringing It All Back Home, Highway 61 Revisited, Blonde on Blonde, and Blood on the Tracks showcase his evolution from protest singer to poetic songwriter. Dylan's impact is undeniable, and each of these albums offers a different facet of his genius.
Joni Mitchell: Intimate Confessions in Song
Joni Mitchell's Blue (1971) is a masterpiece of introspective songwriting. With its raw honesty and innovative musicality, it remains one of the most influential and beloved singer-songwriter albums of all time.
Simon & Garfunkel: Harmonies That Define an Era
Simon & Garfunkel's Bridge Over Troubled Water (1970) and Sounds of Silence are essential listening. Their intricate harmonies and Paul Simon's evocative lyrics captured the spirit of a generation.
The Carter Family: Preserving Tradition
Going further back, The Carter Family's Can the Circle Be Unbroken (1935) is a crucial document of early American folk music, preserving traditional songs and performance styles.
Beyond the Icons: Exploring More Essential Folk Albums
While the above artists are foundational, the world of folk music is vast and varied. Here are a few more albums worth exploring:
Nick Drake: Quiet Intensity
Nick Drake's Pink Moon is a hauntingly beautiful album, known for its sparse instrumentation and Drake's melancholic vocals. Five Leaves Left is another of his albums that is often cited in discussions of the best folk albums.
Leonard Cohen: Poetic Storytelling
Leonard Cohen's Songs of Leonard Cohen (1967) introduced the world to his distinctive voice and darkly poetic lyrics.
Vashti Bunyan: A Lost Gem Rediscovered
Vashti Bunyan's Just Another Diamond Day (1970) is a pastoral and whimsical album that was largely forgotten for decades before being rediscovered and hailed as a folk classic.
Fairport Convention: British Folk Rock Pioneers
Fairport Convention's Liege & Lief (1969) is a landmark album that fused traditional British folk music with rock instrumentation.
Arlo Guthrie: Storytelling at Its Finest
Arlo Guthrie's Hobo's Lullaby (1972) showcases his storytelling abilities and his connection to the folk tradition.
Contemporary Folk: Keeping the Tradition Alive
Folk music continues to evolve, with contemporary artists blending traditional sounds with modern sensibilities. These albums showcase the genre's ongoing relevance.
Bon Iver: Atmospheric Soundscapes
Bon Iver's For Emma, Forever Ago (2007) and Bon Iver (2011) ushered in a new era of indie folk, characterized by atmospheric soundscapes and Justin Vernon's distinctive vocals.
Gillian Welch: Timeless Americana
Gillian Welch's Revival and Time (The Revelator) (2001), often featuring her musical partner David Rawlings, are steeped in American musical traditions, with Welch's songwriting and vocals evoking a sense of timelessness.
Iron & Wine: Whispered Intimacies
Iron & Wine's early work, in particular, captures a lo-fi, intimate folk sound that is both calming and captivating.
Elliott Smith: Raw and Honest
Though often categorized as indie rock, Elliott Smith's Either/Or draws heavily on folk traditions with its acoustic guitar and deeply personal lyrics.
Folk's Many Forms: Acoustic, Electric, and Beyond
Folk music isn't limited to purely acoustic sounds. Many artists have incorporated electric instruments and other elements, pushing the boundaries of the genre.
The Band: Roots Rock Pioneers
The Band's self-titled album The Band is a cornerstone of roots rock, blending folk, blues, and country influences.
Neil Young: A Genre-Bending Icon
Neil Young's Harvest (1972) and After the Gold Rush seamlessly blend folk, rock, and country elements and are considered some of his best work.
Crosby, Stills, Nash (& Young): Supergroup Harmonies
Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young's Déjà Vu (1970) showcases their signature harmonies and songwriting talents.
Van Morrison: Mystical Journeys
Van Morrison's Astral Weeks is a genre-defying masterpiece that blends folk, jazz, and soul music.
Finding Your Best Folk Albums: A Personalized Approach
Ultimately, the "best" folk albums are a matter of personal taste. However, considering the list above, here are some things to consider:
- Do you prefer traditional sounds or more contemporary variations?
- Are you drawn to introspective singer-songwriters or more socially conscious artists?
- Do you value lyrical depth or musical innovation?
Answering these questions can help you narrow down your search and discover albums that resonate with you. Take a look at Essential Folk Albums to Explore for more inspiration.
Common Questions About Folk Music
Let's tackle some frequently asked questions to deepen your understanding of this rich musical landscape.
Is folk music always political?
While many folk songs address social and political issues, it's not a defining characteristic. Folk music also explores themes of love, loss, nature, and personal experiences.
What's the difference between folk and country music?
There's significant overlap, but folk music generally emphasizes storytelling and social commentary, while country music often focuses on themes of love, heartbreak, and rural life. However, both genres share common roots and instrumentation.
Does folk music have to be acoustic?
No, although acoustic instruments are common. Many folk artists incorporate electric instruments and other modern elements into their music.
Beyond Listening: Immersing Yourself in the Folk Music Scene
Discovering the best folk albums is just the beginning. Here are some ways to further immerse yourself in the genre:
- Explore live music venues: Check out local venues that host folk musicians and singer-songwriters.
- Attend folk festivals: Folk festivals offer a great opportunity to discover new artists and connect with other fans.
- Listen to folk music radio shows and podcasts: Many radio stations and podcasts are dedicated to folk music, providing a curated selection of classic and contemporary artists.
- Read books and articles about folk music: Deepen your understanding of the genre's history and cultural significance.
Your Journey Through Folk Music Awaits
The world of folk music is vast and rewarding. By exploring the albums and artists discussed in this guide, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the genre's rich history and enduring power. So, put on your headphones, open your mind, and let the heartfelt sounds of folk music transport you. You might even start to pick up a guitar yourself!