The albums that define
contemporary folk music.
Our picks for where to start with contemporary folk music — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top contemporary folk music artists
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The contemporary folk music essentials
Twenty-four picks. Press play on any of them.
Reinhard Mey
Keine ruhige Minute
'Keine ruhige Minute' encapsulates the essence of Reinhard Mey's musical approach, balancing melody and lyrical depth. It represents a crucial stage in his career where his unique voice began to emerge prominently in the folk scene.
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Reinhard Mey
Wie vor Jahr und Tag
A poignant blend of storytelling and social critique wrapped in folk melodies that echo the sentiments of a changing Germany.
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Kris Kristofferson
Border Lord
A poignant blend of storytelling and introspection wrapped in Kristofferson's gravelly vocals and sparse instrumentation.
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Kris Kristofferson
The Cedar Creek Sessions
A raw and intimate collection of folk-inflected storytelling, blending nostalgia with a sparse acoustic backdrop.
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Tommy Emmanuel
Collaboration
An intricate tapestry of acoustic guitar melodies blending folk, blues, and country influences with virtuosic musicianship.
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Tommy Emmanuel
Dare to Be Different
Eclectic guitar virtuosity intertwines with vibrant melodies, blending blues, folk, and rock into a captivating instrumental journey.
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Marinella
Kazantzidis & Marinella
A rich tapestry of rebetiko and laïko, intertwining poignant melodies with heartfelt vocals that echo the struggles of everyday life.
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Marinella
Marinella of today… In George Hadjinasios songs
A vibrant tapestry of traditional Greek folk melodies intertwined with modern storytelling and heartfelt emotion.
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Pentangle
Reflection
Intricate melodies weave through haunting folk harmonies, blending jazz influences with contemplative lyrics in a reflective journey.
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Pentangle
In the Round
A rich tapestry of folk, jazz, and rock that weaves intricate melodies with haunting harmonies and reflective lyrics.
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Milladoiro
O Berro Seco
A vibrant blend of Galician folk melodies and Celtic rhythms, encapsulating the spirit of traditional music with contemporary flair.
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Värttinä
Oi Dai
A vibrant tapestry of traditional Finnish melodies interwoven with contemporary folk rhythms and spirited vocal harmonies.
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Värttinä
Vihma
A vibrant blend of traditional Finnish folk and contemporary arrangements, driven by rich harmonies and rhythmic intricacies.
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First Aid Kit
The Lion's Roar
The Lion's Roar captures the duo's signature sound through beautifully layered vocals and poignant lyrics. It's a cohesive introduction that highlights their ability to blend personal storytelling with universal themes.
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First Aid Kit
Drunken Trees
Haunting harmonies and delicate instrumentation weave through narratives of longing and introspection in this captivating folk debut.
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Oregon
Crossing
A rich tapestry of world music influences interwoven with avant-garde improvisation and lush melodic structures.
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Oregon
Out of the Woods
A serene blend of jazz, folk, and world music infused with improvisational spirit and rich melodic textures.
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2nd South Carolina String Band
Southern Soldier
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Nicu Alifantis
După melci
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Milladoiro
No confín dos verdes castros
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Lillebjørn Nilsen
Nære Nilsen
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Lillebjørn Nilsen
Haba Haba
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Luar na Lubre
Plenilunio
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Luar na Lubre
Extra Mundi
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By decade
Where contemporary folk music landed in each era.