The best Folk Rock albums
of the 1960s.
Where to start with 1960–1969 folk rock — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top of the 1960s — folk rock
Top picks from 1960–1969, ranked by where we would start.
Jethro Tull
This Was
A vibrant blend of blues, folk, and early progressive rock layered with intricate flute melodies and dynamic rhythms.
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Jethro Tull
Stand Up
A blend of progressive rock and folk, merging intricate instrumentation with poetic storytelling.
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Joni Mitchell
Clouds
A tapestry of intricate melodies woven with introspective lyrics that evoke both nostalgia and contemplation.
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Joni Mitchell
Song to a Seagull
Folk-infused melodies intertwine with introspective lyrics, creating a dreamy soundscape that feels both personal and universal.
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James Taylor
James Taylor
A gentle blend of folk melodies and introspective lyrics that encapsulate the essence of late '60s singer-songwriter culture.
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Nitty Gritty Dirt Band
Ricochet
A blend of folk-rock and country sounds, laced with playful lyrics and vivid storytelling that captures the spirit of the late '60s.
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Nitty Gritty Dirt Band
Rare Junk
A fusion of folk, country, and rock, blending acoustic rhythms with heartfelt storytelling and intricate harmonies.
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Cher
Backstage
A blend of heartfelt folk melodies and evocative pop ballads, showcasing Cher's powerful vocal range and emotional depth.
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Cher
All I Really Want to Do
A blend of folk and pop that showcases Cher's rich vocals over melodious arrangements and heartfelt lyrics.
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Leonard Cohen
Songs from a Room
Haunting melodies intertwine with introspective lyrics, creating a reflective atmosphere steeped in melancholy and wisdom.
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Leonard Cohen
Songs of Leonard Cohen
This debut album encapsulates Cohen's early artistry, blending folk and blues influences while presenting his profound lyrical abilities. It sets the stage for newcomers to grasp the essence of his songwriting.
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Led Zeppelin
Led Zeppelin II
'Led Zeppelin II' is packed with tracks that highlight the band's signature style while remaining accessible to first-time listeners. Its cohesive flow provides a solid foundation for understanding their musical approach.
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Led Zeppelin
Led Zeppelin
A raw and electrifying blend of blues-infused rock that laid the groundwork for heavy metal's evolution.
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George Harrison
Electronic Sound
A meditative exploration of electronic soundscapes layered with Harrison's signature melodic sensibility and experimental spirit.
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Bob Dylan
Blonde on Blonde
A sprawling tapestry of surreal imagery and sharp wit, blending rock, folk, and blues into a groundbreaking sonic experience.
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Bob Dylan
The Freewheelin' Bob Dylan
A poignant blend of folk melodies and incisive lyrics that challenge societal norms while capturing the essence of youthful idealism.
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Paul Simon
The Paul Simon Songbook
A delicate tapestry of introspective folk melodies and poignant lyrics woven with Simon's gentle vocal delivery.
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Neil Young
Neil Young
A reflective blend of folk and rock, layered with introspective lyrics and melodic simplicity.
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The Velvet Underground
The Velvet Underground
A blend of haunting melodies and experimental textures that redefine rock with introspective lyricism and avant-garde spirit.
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The Velvet Underground
White Light/White Heat
Raw, chaotic energy bursts from every track, blending avant-garde noise with pop sensibilities in a thrillingly disorienting experience.
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John Denver
Rhymes & Reasons
A heartfelt blend of folk melodies and poignant storytelling that captures the spirit of a transformative era.
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The Guess Who
Canned Wheat
A blend of folk rock and blues-infused melodies that capture the essence of late 60s experimentation.
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The Guess Who
It's Time
A vibrant mix of bluesy rock and folk influences stitched together with sharp melodies and rich harmonies.
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Glen Campbell
Bobbie Gentry and Glen Campbell
A seamless blend of country and pop, filled with heartfelt harmonies and introspective lyrical storytelling.
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