What is folk music? It is often defined as traditional music from multiple populations and ethnic groups. We will be focusing on American folk music. Multiple times during American history folk music has been a part of mainstream music culture.
There are multiple sources for folk music. During the 19th century, enslaved people often composed
songs, often using a call and repsonse method and distinctive rhythms. Folk music from England
and Ireland were often ballads, telling a story. This helped to stabilize Appalachian music.
The west would also use them as work songs, cowboys using the hispanic language and influence
to create a new sound. In the 1930s "The Carter Family" popularized this music. This
continued into the 1960s with more artists joinging the genre. Comtemporary folk remains
popular.
Characteristics of Folk music:
1. Acoustic instruments: Non-electrified imstruments often lead folk songs. Such as the acoustic
guitar, the bango, the fiddle, etc.
2.English language lyrics: Except for Cajun folk music, most are in English. They would changes
the message. Bob Dylan would sing about social justice, while the Kingston Trio just covered old
songs.
3. Emphasis on regional authenticity: Folk music varies on different regions and are faithful
to their local traditions. This explains why folk genres sound so different from eachother.
My three song recommendations:
Farewell, Angelina by Joan Baez
Where Have All the Flowers Gone by Peter, Paul, and Mary
Greenback Dollar by The Kingston Trio