The best Traditional Folk Music albums
of the 1970s.
Where to start with 1970–1979 traditional folk music — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top of the 1970s — traditional folk music
Top picks from 1970–1979, ranked by where we would start.
Chet Atkins
The Atkins-Travis Traveling Show
A vibrant blend of country, jazz, and folk infused with playful guitar virtuosity and engaging melodies.
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Chet Atkins
Me and Jerry
A blend of country, jazz, and folk that showcases intricate guitar work alongside heartfelt vocal harmonies.
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Fabrizio De André
La buona novella
A haunting blend of traditional folk and poetic storytelling that explores biblical themes through lush instrumentation.
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Fabrizio De André
Storia di un impiegato
A poignant blend of folk melodies and narrative-driven lyrics that encapsulate social critique and personal introspection.
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Mike Oldfield
Ommadawn
An expansive journey blending folk melodies, progressive rock structures, and intricate instrumental layers into a cohesive sonic landscape.
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Mike Oldfield
Platinum
A dynamic fusion of progressive rock and classical elements, exploring themes of nature and technology through intricate instrumentals.
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Johnny Cash
Look at Them Beans
A laid-back collection of storytelling songs infused with Cash's signature deep voice and an understated country-blues vibe.
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Johnny Cash
America: A 200-Year Salute in Story and Song
A narrative journey through American history, blending spoken word and song with Cash's signature baritone delivery.
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John Denver
Poems, Prayers & Promises
A blend of heartfelt folk melodies and reflective lyrics that evoke the beauty of nature and human experience.
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John Denver
Whose Garden Was This
A tapestry of heartfelt folk melodies intertwines with poignant storytelling, reflecting a deep connection to nature and humanity.
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Joan Baez
Come from the Shadows
A reflective tapestry of folk and protest, woven with Baez's haunting vocals and poignant storytelling.
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Joan Baez
Gulf Winds
A reflective blend of folk and traditional melodies, infused with a sense of longing and connection to nature.
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Miyuki Nakajima
Aishiteiru to Ittekure
A delicate blend of traditional folk melodies and poignant storytelling, resonating with the emotional landscape of 1970s Japan.
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Cat Stevens
Catch Bull at Four
A melodic blend of introspective lyrics and soothing folk-rock arrangements that invites deep reflection.
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Cat Stevens
Mona Bone Jakon
A reflective blend of folk and pop, infused with emotional depth and melodic simplicity that defines early Cat Stevens.
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Melanie
Candles in the Rain
A blend of poignant folk melodies and heartfelt lyrics, capturing the spirit of a generation's quest for love and understanding.
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Melanie
Gather Me
A whimsical blend of folk and pop with playful melodies and introspective lyrics that capture the spirit of early 70s counterculture.
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Mercedes Sosa
Homenaje a Violeta Parra
A heartfelt tribute blending traditional folk melodies with powerful, socially conscious lyrics that echo Violeta Parra's legacy.
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Roberta Flack
Feel Like Makin' Love
A smooth blend of soul and jazz that envelops listeners in warmth and intimacy.
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Roberta Flack
Chapter Two
A seamless blend of jazz-inflected soul and folk, showcasing Flack's rich vocals and emotive storytelling.
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Janis Ian
Miracle Row
A tender blend of folk melodies and pop sensibilities, underscored by introspective lyrics and Janis Ian's emotive vocals.
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Janis Ian
Night Rains
A blend of introspective folk melodies and polished pop production, reflecting deep emotional landscapes and personal narratives.
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Steve Forbert
Jackrabbit Slim
A melodic blend of folk-rock storytelling and vibrant instrumentation that captures the essence of late '70s American pop music.
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Steve Forbert
Alive on Arrival
'Alive on Arrival' encapsulates Forbert's talent for blending introspective lyrics with memorable melodies. It serves as a entry point that sets the tone for his storytelling approach throughout his career.
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