The albums that define
american folk music.
Our picks for where to start with american folk music — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top American folk music artists
Start with one of these.
The american folk music essentials
Twenty-four picks. Press play on any of them.
Bob Dylan
Dylan & the Dead
A fusion of Dylan's poignant lyricism with the Grateful Dead's improvisational spirit creates a fluid, captivating live experience.
Start here
Bob Dylan
Blonde on Blonde
A sprawling, surreal tapestry of sound blending folk rock with vivid, poetic narratives and eclectic instrumentation.
Start here
Indigo Girls
One Lost Day
A reflective blend of Americana and folk, weaving personal stories with social commentary over gentle melodies.
Start here
Indigo Girls
Swamp Ophelia
A rich tapestry of harmonies and poignant lyrics that blend folk roots with alternative rock sensibilities.
Start here
Tracy Chapman
Tracy Chapman
Soulful melodies intertwined with poignant storytelling create an intimate and reflective listening experience.
Start here
Tracy Chapman
New Beginning
Soulful melodies intertwine with poignant lyrics, reflecting resilience and introspection in a richly acoustic landscape.
Start here
Woody Guthrie
Folkways The Original Vision – Songs of Woody Guthrie and Lead Belly
A vibrant tapestry of American folk traditions interwoven with raw, emotive storytelling and social commentary.
Start here
Woody Guthrie
Sings Folk Songs (with Leadbelly, Cisco Houston, Sonny Terry, Bess Howes)
A collection of traditional folk songs infused with Guthrie's earnest storytelling and communal spirit.
Start here
Dustin Kensrue
Carry the Fire
A heartfelt tapestry of folk melodies intertwined with profound explorations of faith and grace.
Start here
Dustin Kensrue
Thoughts That Float on a Different Blood
A haunting blend of introspective folk and experimental rock that explores themes of faith and human experience.
Start here
The Duhks
Migrations
A vibrant fusion of folk, bluegrass, and world sounds that invites listeners to explore thematic storytelling.
Start here
The Duhks
The Duhks
An exhilarating blend of traditional folk with vibrant instrumentation and contemporary energy that breathes new life into classic sounds.
Start here
Paul Siebel
Jack-Knife Gypsy
A blend of introspective storytelling and vivid imagery wrapped in melodic folk traditions.
Start here
Paul Siebel
Woodsmoke and Oranges
A tapestry of introspective storytelling woven with gentle melodies and evocative instrumentation.
Start here