The albums that define
traditional folk music.
Our picks for where to start with traditional folk music — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top traditional folk music artists
Start with one of these.
The traditional folk music essentials
Twenty-four picks. Press play on any of them.
Fabrizio De André
La buona novella
A haunting blend of traditional folk and poetic storytelling that explores biblical themes through lush instrumentation.
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Fabrizio De André
Crêuza de mä
A lyrical journey through Ligurian landscapes, blending traditional folk melodies with poetic narratives that evoke a sense of nostalgia and cultural pride.
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Mike Oldfield
Amarok
A sprawling sonic journey that melds progressive rock with world music influences, marked by intricate melodies and ethereal soundscapes.
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Mike Oldfield
Tr3s Lunas
A rich tapestry of ambient textures and melodic themes that evoke a sense of journey and introspection.
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Johnny Cash
Hymns by Johnny Cash
A poignant collection of heartfelt gospel tunes delivered with Johnny Cash's deep, resonant voice and a simple, unadorned arrangement.
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Johnny Cash
The Sound of Johnny Cash
A rich tapestry of storytelling woven through traditional country melodies and heartfelt vocal delivery.
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The Kingston Trio
Close-Up
Traditional folk melodies intertwine with rich harmonies, creating a vibrant tapestry of storytelling and musicality.
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The Kingston Trio
The Last Month of the Year
Joyful harmonies and traditional instrumentation blend to create a warm, nostalgic soundtrack for the holiday season.
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Chet Atkins
The Atkins-Travis Traveling Show
A vibrant blend of country, jazz, and folk infused with playful guitar virtuosity and engaging melodies.
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Chet Atkins
The Day Finger Pickers Took Over the World
A vibrant blend of fingerstyle guitar mastery infused with bluegrass, country, and jazz sensibilities.
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Nelly Furtado
Whoa, Nelly!
A vibrant blend of pop, R&B, and folk influences creates an eclectic sound that's both fresh and introspective.
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Nelly Furtado
7
A vibrant blend of pop and Latin rhythms, underscored by introspective lyrics and Nelly Furtado's signature vocal delivery.
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Ramblin' Jack Elliott
South Coast
A haunting blend of traditional folk and country storytelling, steeped in Americana's rich musical heritage.
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Ramblin' Jack Elliott
Bull Durham Sacks & Railroad Tracks
A tapestry of American folk and country, woven with heartfelt storytelling and poignant melodies.
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Leo Kottke
6- and 12-String Guitar
This album encapsulates the essence of Kottke's artistry with its intricate arrangements and masterful fingerpicking. It lays a solid foundation for understanding his approach to both blues and folk music.
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Leo Kottke
Greenhouse
A vibrant tapestry of fingerstyle guitar interwoven with folk storytelling and a touch of bluesy melancholy.
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By decade
Where traditional folk music landed in each era.