The albums that define
old-time music.
Our picks for where to start with old-time music — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top old-time music artists
Start with one of these.
The old-time music essentials
Twenty-four picks. Press play on any of them.
Old Crow Medicine Show
Tennessee Pusher
A vibrant tapestry of bluegrass and folk, weaving tales of struggle and resilience through spirited instrumentation.
Start here
Rhiannon Giddens
Freedom Highway
A poignant blend of folk traditions and contemporary storytelling, echoing the struggles and resilience of African American history.
Start here
Old Crow Medicine Show
Old Crow Medicine Show
A lively blend of bluegrass and folk that captures the spirit of Americana storytelling.
Start here
Old Crow Medicine Show
Big Iron World
A vibrant blend of traditional Americana infused with energetic bluegrass and folk storytelling.
Start here
Old Crow Medicine Show
Volunteer (Old Crow Medicine Show album)
A vibrant tapestry of folk, bluegrass, and country that captures the spirit of Americana.
Start here
Old Crow Medicine Show
Carry Me Back
A vibrant tapestry of Appalachian roots and storytelling, blending bluegrass, folk, and country with infectious energy.
Start here
Old Crow Medicine Show
50 Years of Blonde on Blonde
Old Crow Medicine Show breathes new life into Bob Dylan's classic with vibrant instrumentation and heartfelt harmonies.
Start here
Old Crow Medicine Show
Remedy
A lively blend of bluegrass and folk, infused with storytelling that captures the spirit of Americana.
Start here
Rhiannon Giddens
They're Calling Me Home
A tapestry of traditional folk and spirituals woven with Giddens' haunting vocals and rich storytelling.
Start here
Rhiannon Giddens
There Is No Other
An evocative blend of folk traditions and contemporary sounds, celebrating cultural heritage and personal narratives.
Start here
Rhiannon Giddens
Tomorrow Is My Turn
A rich tapestry of traditional folk sounds intertwined with soulful vocals and poignant storytelling.
Start here
Rhiannon Giddens
You're the One
A soulful blend of folk and old-time sounds, steeped in rich storytelling and emotional depth.
Start here
Abigail Washburn
City of Refuge
A rich tapestry of old-time melodies woven with contemporary storytelling and intricate banjo rhythms.
Start here
Ralph Stanley
Shine On
Traditional bluegrass harmonies intertwine with heartfelt gospel themes, showcasing a rich tapestry of devotion and heritage.
Start here
Ralph Stanley
Ralph Stanley
Traditional bluegrass harmonies intertwine with heartfelt storytelling, evoking the soul of Appalachian music.
Start here
Ralph Stanley
A Distant Land to Roam: Songs of the Carter Family
Traditional bluegrass harmonies intertwine with heartfelt storytelling, evoking the rich legacy of American folk music.
Start here
Old Man Luedecke
Tender Is the Night
Start here