The best Doc Watson albums

20 records, ordered by how much we can tell you about each one — not by chart position.

  1. 1
    On Praying Ground

    On Praying Ground Start here

    1990

    A heartfelt collection of gospel-infused folk and bluegrass, rich with spiritual longing and acoustic warmth.

  2. 2
    Doc Watson

    Doc Watson

    1964

    A masterful blend of traditional folk and blues, showcasing intricate guitar work paired with heartfelt storytelling.

  3. 3
    Doc and Merle Watson's Guitar Album

    Doc and Merle Watson's Guitar Album

    1983

    A vibrant blend of traditional folk, bluegrass, and blues, showcasing intricate guitar work and heartfelt storytelling.

  4. 4
    Home Again!

    Home Again!

    1966

    A vibrant tapestry of folk, bluegrass, and country that celebrates American musical roots with heartfelt storytelling and virtuosic guitar work.

  5. 5
    Red Rocking Chair

    Red Rocking Chair

    1981

    A vibrant blend of folk, bluegrass, and blues that showcases Doc Watson's fingerpicking mastery and warm vocal storytelling.

  6. 6
    Doc & Dawg

    Doc & Dawg

    1997

    A vibrant blend of bluegrass, blues, and folk that showcases Doc Watson's virtuosity and heartfelt storytelling.

  7. 7
    Portrait

    Portrait

    1987

    A rich tapestry of folk, blues, and country interwoven with heartfelt storytelling and virtuosic guitar work.

  8. 8
    My Dear Old Southern Home

    My Dear Old Southern Home

    1991

    A heartfelt collection of traditional songs that intertwines bluegrass, folk, and country with intimate storytelling and soulful melodies.

  9. 9
    Riding the Midnight Train

    Riding the Midnight Train

    1986

    A soulful blend of folk, bluegrass, and gospel that captures the essence of American roots music with heartfelt storytelling.

  10. 10
    Memories

    Memories

    1975

    A heartfelt collection of folk and bluegrass tunes that blend storytelling with intricate guitar work and warm harmonies.

  11. 11
    The Elementary Doctor Watson!

    The Elementary Doctor Watson!

    1972

    A vibrant mix of bluegrass, folk, and blues that showcases Doc Watson's virtuosity and heartfelt storytelling.

  12. 12
    Tennessee Stud

    Tennessee Stud

    2003

    A rich blend of traditional bluegrass, folk, and blues, showcasing Doc Watson's virtuosity and heartfelt storytelling.

  13. 13
    Songs from the Southern Mountains

    Songs from the Southern Mountains

    1994

    Doc Watson's acoustic brilliance intertwines traditional folk melodies with heartfelt storytelling, creating a tapestry of Southern musical heritage.

  14. 14
    Pickin' the Blues

    Pickin' the Blues

    1985

    A vibrant blend of traditional blues and folk elements, showcasing intricate guitar work and heartfelt storytelling.

  15. 15
    Down South

    Down South

    1984

    A vibrant tapestry of traditional folk and blues, underscored by heartfelt storytelling and intricate guitar work.

  16. 16
    Strictly Instrumental

    Strictly Instrumental

    1967

    A vibrant showcase of instrumental bluegrass and folk, blending virtuosic picking with rhythmic spontaneity.

  17. 17
    Round the Table Again

    Round the Table Again

    2002

    A heartfelt blend of traditional folk, blues, and bluegrass, showcasing Doc Watson's signature fingerpicking and warm storytelling.

  18. 18
    Doc Watson & Son

    Doc Watson & Son

    1965

    A rich blend of traditional folk, blues, and bluegrass, showcasing heartfelt storytelling through intricate guitar work and soulful vocals.

  19. 19
    Docabilly

    Docabilly

    1995

    A vibrant fusion of rockabilly rhythms and country storytelling, showcasing Doc Watson's virtuosic guitar and heartfelt vocals.

  20. 20
    Southbound

    Southbound

    1966

    A seamless blend of folk and bluegrass, showcasing intricate guitar work and heartfelt storytelling.