The albums that define
folk rock.
Our picks for where to start with folk rock — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top folk rock artists
Start with one of these.
The folk rock essentials
Twenty-four picks. Press play on any of them.
Paul Simon
Graceland
A vibrant fusion of American folk rock and South African musical styles creates an infectious, rhythmic tapestry.
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Neil Young
Hawks & Doves
A blend of introspective folk and Southern rock that captures both personal and political themes.
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Led Zeppelin
Led Zeppelin
A raw fusion of bluesy riffs and psychedelic experimentation that laid the groundwork for hard rock's evolution.
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Led Zeppelin
Coda
A posthumous collection of blues-infused rock that captures the band's creative essence and unfinished ideas.
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George Harrison
Dark Horse
A blend of introspective balladry and lively rock, reflecting Harrison's personal and spiritual journeys.
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Eagles
The Long Run
A smooth blend of rock and pop-inflected country vibes with introspective lyrics and polished harmonies.
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Simon & Garfunkel
Bookends
A reflective tapestry of folk melodies intertwined with poignant commentary on the passage of time and lost innocence.
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Leb i sol
Kao kakao
A vibrant fusion of folk rock and jazz influences, layered with intricate melodies and reflective lyrics.
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Sui Generis
Confesiones de Invierno
A poignant blend of folk rock and poetic lyricism that captures the essence of early 70s Argentine music.
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Sui Generis
Vida
A tender fusion of Argentine folk and rock that weaves intricate melodies with poignant lyrics.
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Pearls Before Swine
Balaklava
Dreamy folk melodies intertwine with surrealistic lyrics, creating an ethereal soundscape that captures the essence of late 1960s introspection.
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Pearls Before Swine
One Nation Underground
A haunting blend of surreal lyrics and folk melodies, enveloping listeners in a dreamlike atmosphere.
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Francesco De Gregori
Scacchi e tarocchi
A poetic blend of folk rock and Italian storytelling enveloped in evocative melodies.
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Francesco De Gregori
Alice non lo sa
Poetic storytelling intertwines with folk-rock melodies, creating a vivid tapestry of Italian life and emotion.
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America
Hideaway
A melodic blend of soft rock and folk harmonies, evoking a sense of serene introspection.
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America
Hat Trick
A rich tapestry of folk harmonies and soft rock melodies entwined with whimsical storytelling.
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R.E.M.
Up
A reflective blend of melancholic melodies and introspective lyrics, capturing a transitional moment in R.E.M.'s evolution.
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R.E.M.
R.E.M.: Singles Collected
A vibrant collection showcasing R.E.M.'s jangle pop melodies and introspective lyrics that defined '80s alternative rock.
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Barenaked Ladies
Hits from Yesterday & the Day Before
A nostalgic collection of catchy melodies and witty lyrics reflecting on love, life, and the passing of time.
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Barenaked Ladies
Extended Versions
Playful melodies and clever lyrics intertwine, showcasing Barenaked Ladies' unique blend of folk rock and pop sensibilities.
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Nitty Gritty Dirt Band
Stars & Stripes Forever
A spirited blend of folk, country, and rock that celebrates American musical traditions through playful storytelling.
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Nitty Gritty Dirt Band
Welcome to Woody Creek
A warm blend of country rock and folk sounds that seamlessly captures the spirit of Americana.
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Jimmy Buffett
Songs from St. Somewhere
A sun-soaked blend of easygoing melodies and reflective lyrics that evoke a laid-back coastal lifestyle.
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Jimmy Buffett
Boats, Beaches, Bars & Ballads
A sun-soaked blend of tropical rock melodies and laid-back storytelling that invites escapism.
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