Folk music, with its rich tapestry of storytelling and cultural heritage, has captivated audiences for generations. In this vibrant genre, artists weave together melodies and lyrics that resonate deeply, reflecting the joys and struggles of everyday life. From the haunting ballads of the past to the contemporary sounds that echo today, folk music serves as a timeless bridge connecting us to our roots.
In this article, we celebrate the top 15 best folk music singers of all time—voices that have not only defined the genre but have also inspired countless others. These extraordinary artists, hailing from diverse backgrounds, have used their craft to tell stories of love, hardship, and resilience. Whether it’s the soulful strumming of a guitar or the gentle lilt of a voice, each singer on this list has left an indelible mark on the world of music.
Join us as we embark on a journey through the enchanting world of folk music. From legendary figures who paved the way to modern icons who continue to innovate, we’ll explore the lives and legacies of those who have made folk music a beloved art form. Prepare to be inspired by their timeless tunes and heartfelt narratives!
1. Woody Guthrie
Woody Guthrie is widely recognized as the father of American folk music, a title that speaks volumes about his lasting impact on the genre. With a guitar slung over his shoulder and a heart full of passion, Guthrie used his music as a tool to fight for social justice and highlight the struggles of everyday people, particularly the working class. His most famous composition, “This Land Is Your Land,” became an anthem that captured the beauty of the American landscape while calling for unity and equality for all citizens. The song, which has been sung by generations of Americans, exemplifies Guthrie’s commitment to using music as a means of challenging inequality and advocating for the rights of the marginalized.
Guthrie’s influence stretches far beyond the folk music community. His songs are filled with stories of the Great Depression, labor struggles, and the resilience of the common man, making his work deeply relevant to the social and political issues of his time. However, his legacy is not confined to his era. His influence has been felt across generations of musicians and activists who continue to draw inspiration from his timeless messages of hope, resistance, and solidarity. Artists from Bob Dylan to Bruce Springsteen have cited Guthrie as a significant influence on their own music, with his spirit of protest and his commitment to social change continuing to inspire today.
Guthrie’s music remains a staple in the American folk tradition, and his songs are as poignant and relevant now as they were when they were first written. His legacy is one of unflinching advocacy for the underdog and the forgotten, making him a timeless voice for the people.
2. Joan Baez
Joan Baez stands as one of the towering figures in the folk music world, known for her crystalline voice, deep emotional range, and unwavering commitment to social causes. A key figure in the folk music revival of the 1960s, Baez’s music became synonymous with activism, as she used her platform to speak out against injustice and to support civil rights movements both in the U.S. and abroad. With her distinctive, ethereal voice and simple yet profound guitar arrangements, Baez became not only a symbol of musical excellence but also of moral courage and conviction.
Baez’s musical career spans decades, and she is particularly known for her beautiful renditions of traditional folk songs, as well as her politically charged original compositions. Her early albums, including “Joan Baez” and “Diamonds & Rust,” showcase her ability to interpret songs with deep emotional honesty, whether singing about love, war, or social injustice. Baez’s work on the 1960s folk circuit was pivotal in bringing attention to key political issues, particularly her steadfast advocacy for civil rights and her active participation in protests against the Vietnam War. Her role in the civil rights movement, especially her close partnership with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., solidified her as a powerful figure in both music and activism.
Baez’s music continues to resonate deeply with fans and activists alike, as her songs have become part of the soundtrack to movements for equality, peace, and justice. Beyond her activism, Baez’s voice remains one of the most captivating in folk music, and her ability to convey deep emotions with simplicity and grace has earned her a beloved place in the hearts of millions.
3. Bob Dylan
Bob Dylan revolutionized not only folk music but the broader landscape of popular music with his unique blend of poetic lyrics, innovative sound, and powerful social commentary. Emerging as a force in the early 1960s, Dylan’s work captured the essence of the tumultuous political and cultural shifts of the era. His songs, including timeless classics like “Blowin’ in the Wind” and “The Times They Are a-Changin’,” became anthems of social change, calling for justice, peace, and freedom at a time when the world was in desperate need of them.
What set Dylan apart from his peers was his ability to fuse traditional folk elements with modern rock, blues, and poetry. His words were both revolutionary and introspective, offering profound insight into the human condition while addressing the pressing social issues of the day. Songs like “The Times They Are a-Changin'” became rallying cries for the civil rights movement, the anti-war protests, and the broader counterculture, making Dylan the voice of a generation. His poetic approach to songwriting also influenced countless musicians, from fellow folk artists to rock icons, paving the way for the evolution of modern music.
Dylan’s influence extends far beyond his folk roots. His experimentation with electric instruments in the mid-60s signaled a new direction for popular music, and his ability to adapt and evolve artistically has kept him relevant throughout his career. Today, Bob Dylan remains a symbol of artistic freedom and social consciousness, and his songs continue to speak to the struggles for justice and peace that still resonate globally. Dylan’s legacy is one of constant reinvention and the power of music to challenge the status quo.
4. Pete Seeger
Pete Seeger was not only a master of the banjo but also a champion for the people, using his music as a platform for activism and social change. Known for his distinctive voice and ability to make even the simplest songs feel profound, Seeger’s music continues to inspire and resonate with generations of folk enthusiasts. As a member of the Weavers, Seeger helped popularize folk music in the post-World War II era, making songs like “If I Had a Hammer” and “Where Have All the Flowers Gone” household anthems for social justice movements.
Seeger’s music was never just about entertainment; it was always a tool for raising awareness and promoting social causes. His activism took many forms, from his outspoken support for the civil rights movement to his environmental advocacy. He was a strong proponent of peace and equality, using his music to speak out against war, injustice, and the plight of the oppressed. His legacy as an activist is as powerful as his legacy as a musician. Songs like “This Land Is Your Land,” which Seeger helped popularize, became more than just anthems for labor struggles and political causes; they became the very soundtrack of the fight for civil rights and environmental preservation.
Seeger’s impact on folk music and American social movements is profound. His songs have been covered by countless artists and continue to inspire activism and hope. Pete Seeger was not just a musician; he was a voice for the voiceless, and his work remains a beacon of resistance in the fight for justice and equality.
5. Joni Mitchell
Joni Mitchell stands as one of the most influential voices in folk music, known for her poetic songwriting, unique vocal style, and her ability to weave a wide array of musical influences into her folk roots. Mitchell’s music is marked by its deep introspection, exploring themes of love, loss, self-discovery, and the complexities of the human experience. With her groundbreaking 1971 album Blue, Mitchell cemented her place as one of the genre’s most powerful storytellers. Tracks like “A Case of You” and “River” are not only emotionally evocative but are also brilliant examples of Mitchell’s ability to intertwine deeply personal experiences with universal emotions.
What sets Joni Mitchell apart from many of her peers is her mastery of both songwriting and instrumentation. She was one of the first artists to incorporate non-standard tunings into her guitar work, creating a sound that was uniquely her own. Her lyrics, often poetic and complex, reveal a woman constantly evolving, both as an artist and as an individual. Songs like “Big Yellow Taxi” address environmental concerns with sharp social commentary, while tracks like “Both Sides, Now” reflect on the passage of time and the bittersweet nature of life. Mitchell’s ability to balance the personal with the political, and the emotional with the intellectual, makes her work timeless.
Beyond her musical achievements, Joni Mitchell’s influence as a female artist in a male-dominated industry cannot be overstated. She broke new ground for women in folk, rock, and beyond, and her work has inspired generations of songwriters, particularly female artists who cite her as a major influence. Mitchell’s legacy continues to shine through her music, which remains as relevant and poignant today as it was when first released. Her ability to create beauty out of sorrow and to express deep personal truths through song ensures that she remains one of the most respected and beloved figures in modern music.
6. Simon & Garfunkel
The legendary folk duo Simon & Garfunkel, composed of Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel, became one of the most beloved acts of the 1960s with their harmonious vocals and timeless songs. Their music, with its gentle melodies and thought-provoking lyrics, captured the spirit of the era while continuing to resonate deeply with audiences of all ages. From the somber tones of “The Sound of Silence” to the uplifting strains of “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” their songs have become staples in the folk music canon, remembered for their beauty, introspection, and emotional depth.
What made Simon & Garfunkel’s music so captivating was the seamless blending of Simon’s intricate, poetic lyrics with Garfunkel’s angelic, soaring voice. Simon’s songwriting, rich with imagery and symbolism, explored the internal struggles of individuals, the complexity of relationships, and the social issues of the time. Tracks like “The Boxer” and “Mrs. Robinson” became anthems for a generation, reflecting a sense of disillusionment with the status quo while also offering a sense of hope and redemption. The duo’s remarkable ability to tell stories with both warmth and sorrow has ensured that their music endures through time.
Their harmonies are nothing short of legendary. Together, they created a sound that felt both intimate and universal, inviting listeners into their world of personal reflection, societal critique, and quiet hope. Simon & Garfunkel’s music continues to be a touchstone for folk music, with each song offering its own glimpse into the human experience. Their ability to tackle heavy themes with grace and subtlety has solidified them as one of the most important duos in folk music history.
7. Leonard Cohen
Leonard Cohen was a master of poetic songwriting, and his influence on folk music and beyond is undeniable. Known for his deep baritone voice and introspective, often melancholic lyrics, Cohen’s work spans multiple genres, blending folk with elements of rock, pop, and even jazz. His music explored themes of love, faith, spirituality, and existential struggle, with many of his songs featuring intricate metaphors and philosophical musings. Cohen’s most famous song, “Hallelujah,” has become one of the most covered and revered songs in modern music, its lyrics resonating deeply with listeners on a spiritual and emotional level.
Cohen’s career, which spanned more than five decades, was marked by a relentless pursuit of artistic and spiritual growth. His albums, such as Songs of Leonard Cohen and I’m Your Man, showcase his evolution as a songwriter, transitioning from simple acoustic folk tunes to more complex and layered productions. His songs are filled with a sense of longing, the exploration of life’s darker aspects, and a profound search for meaning. Despite this, Cohen’s work is always imbued with a quiet sense of grace, making his music deeply moving and accessible.
Throughout his life, Cohen’s spiritual journey also became an integral part of his artistry. His time spent as a monk, his exploration of Judaism, and his philosophical outlook all contributed to the depth of his lyrics, allowing him to address universal themes of love, despair, and redemption in a way that few artists could. Leonard Cohen’s legacy is one of artistic integrity, introspection, and beauty, making him an icon of both the folk and popular music worlds.
8. Nick Drake
Nick Drake’s music is often described as haunting, melancholic, and introspective. Although he never found commercial success during his lifetime, his posthumous rise to fame has solidified him as one of the most revered figures in folk music. Drake’s albums, particularly Pink Moon, are a testament to his incredible talent and emotional depth, with sparse, delicate guitar work and deeply personal lyrics. His gentle voice, coupled with his intricate guitar arrangements, creates a mood that feels both intimate and ethereal, as though he’s inviting the listener into his own private world of contemplation and vulnerability.
What makes Drake’s music stand out is the profound sense of solitude and melancholy that pervades it. Songs like “Pink Moon” and “River Man” explore themes of personal despair, longing, and the fragility of life. While his lyrics are often cryptic, they are filled with raw emotion, creating a feeling of connection with listeners who can sense the depth of his inner struggles. Despite the darkness in his songs, there is also a certain beauty in the way Drake captures the nuances of the human experience, whether it’s the fleeting nature of love or the passage of time.
Drake’s music has had a significant influence on later generations of musicians, particularly those in the indie folk and acoustic scenes. Artists such as Bon Iver and Fleet Foxes have cited Drake as a major inspiration, drawn to his ability to blend folk traditions with a modern, haunting sensibility. His music remains timeless, captivating listeners with its vulnerability and emotional honesty. Nick Drake may have been a reclusive figure, but his legacy continues to resonate deeply with those who discover his music, and he is now celebrated as one of the great poets of modern folk.
9. Gillian Welch
Gillian Welch is a modern folk artist whose sound is steeped in the traditions of Appalachian folk and bluegrass, yet she brings her own unique voice and style to the genre. Alongside her musical partner, David Rawlings, Welch has crafted some of the most emotionally rich and beautifully composed songs of the 21st century. Albums like Time (The Revelator) and Hell Among the Yearlings showcase her mastery of storytelling, with lyrics that evoke vivid images of rural life, heartbreak, and the American experience. Her haunting voice and intricate guitar playing create an atmosphere that is both timeless and deeply rooted in the past.
What sets Welch apart from many of her contemporaries is her ability to evoke the spirit of traditional folk music while remaining firmly in the present. Her music is deeply personal, yet it carries universal themes of love, loss, and the passage of time. Songs like “The Revelator” and “Look at Miss Ohio” are filled with striking imagery and social commentary, offering both a glimpse into Welch’s own life and a broader reflection on American culture. She has an extraordinary ability to combine the personal and the political, weaving themes of isolation, redemption, and societal change into her songs.
Welch’s collaboration with Rawlings is a crucial element of her sound. Their harmonies are tight and intimate, creating a sense of unity and emotional depth that is hard to match. Their chemistry is palpable, and their ability to communicate through music is one of the reasons why Welch’s work continues to captivate audiences. Gillian Welch’s music is both an exploration of traditional American folk and a reimagining of it, and her dedication to the craft has made her a cornerstone of contemporary folk music.
10. Townes Van Zandt
Townes Van Zandt was a master of storytelling, known for his poetic lyrics, soulful melodies, and raw emotional depth. His songs are rich with themes of love, loss, and the complexities of the human condition, delivered through his distinct voice and sparse guitar arrangements. Tracks like “Pancho and Lefty” and “If I Had No Loot” are some of his most iconic, showcasing his ability to weave complex narratives into his music, painting vivid pictures of life’s joys and sorrows. His lyrics are often as haunting as they are beautiful, filled with moments of clarity and insight into the darker sides of human existence.
Van Zandt’s music often resonated with a sense of melancholy and longing, and his songs captured a rare honesty that has led to him being regarded as one of the finest songwriters in American folk music. Despite battling personal demons and facing commercial obscurity for much of his career, Van Zandt’s music has lived on, influencing countless artists across a variety of genres. His songs, often imbued with a sense of struggle and resignation, resonate deeply with anyone who has experienced the vagaries of life. His influence can be seen in the work of artists like Steve Earle, Willie Nelson, and even Bob Dylan, who have all cited Van Zandt as an inspiration.
Despite his relatively small commercial success during his lifetime, Townes Van Zandt’s legacy is immense. His impact on folk music is profound, and his songs continue to be cherished by generations of listeners who find solace in the emotional honesty and lyrical beauty of his work. Townes Van Zandt’s music remains a testament to the power of songwriting, reminding us all of the power of words to capture the complexities of life.
11. Emmylou Harris
Emmylou Harris is one of the most beloved and versatile voices in country and folk music. With her angelic vocals and effortless ability to blend genres, Harris has built a legendary career spanning decades. Her contributions to the world of music are wide-ranging, as she has explored everything from traditional country and folk to bluegrass and rock. Harris’s distinctive voice, often described as ethereal and haunting, has earned her a devoted fan base and respect within the music community. She’s collaborated with the likes of Gram Parsons, Bob Dylan, and Linda Ronstadt, among others, creating a remarkable body of work that transcends genre boundaries.
One of Harris’s greatest talents is her ability to infuse her songs with deep emotion and vulnerability. Tracks like “Boulder to Birmingham” and “If I Had a Hammer” showcase her unique ability to convey heartbreak and longing with an intensity that feels deeply personal. Her voice has a way of expressing the rawness of human experience—whether it’s love, loss, or the simple beauty of the world around us. She captures the essence of Americana, giving a voice to the everyday struggles and triumphs that resonate with listeners.
In addition to her musical achievements, Harris’s advocacy for various social causes and her involvement in the environmental movement further solidify her status as a significant figure in American culture. Harris has remained relevant by continuing to experiment with her sound while staying true to the storytelling traditions of country and folk music. Her impact on the genre is immeasurable, and her contributions have made her an essential part of the American musical landscape. Emmylou Harris is a testament to the enduring power of music and its ability to bring people together across generations.
12. The Civil Wars
The Civil Wars, composed of Joy Williams and John Paul White, were a duo whose music captured the hearts of listeners with its emotional depth and striking harmonies. Although their partnership was short-lived, their impact on the folk music scene was undeniable. Their self-titled debut album, released in 2011, introduced the world to their unique sound—a blend of folk, country, and Americana, characterized by their delicate arrangements and poignant lyrics. Songs like “Barton Hollow” and “Poison & Wine” showcase their remarkable chemistry and ability to convey complex emotions with raw honesty.
The Civil Wars’ music is marked by a sense of tension and vulnerability, with their harmonies often evoking a sense of longing and heartache. The lyrical themes explored in their work delve into the complexities of relationships, love, betrayal, and personal struggles, making their songs feel both intimate and universal. Despite their short time together, the duo’s music left an indelible mark on the folk music scene, inspiring a new generation of artists with their minimalist approach to songwriting and production. Their ability to create emotional depth with just two voices and an acoustic guitar is a testament to the power of simplicity in folk music.
While the Civil Wars’ sudden breakup left fans heartbroken, their legacy endures through their beautiful and timeless music. The songs they crafted together continue to resonate with listeners around the world, and their haunting harmonies are still remembered as some of the most impactful in modern folk music. Their story is one of fleeting brilliance, reminding us all of the beauty and fragility of artistic partnerships and the power of music to touch our hearts.
13. Laura Marling
Laura Marling is a modern folk singer-songwriter whose delicate voice and introspective lyrics have won her critical acclaim and a loyal fan base. With her intricate guitar playing and poetic songwriting, Marling has crafted a sound that blends traditional folk elements with contemporary sensibilities. Since her debut album Alas, I Cannot Swim in 2008, Marling has consistently impressed listeners with her ability to evoke deep emotional resonance through her music. Her thoughtful lyrics explore themes of love, identity, and personal growth, and her music has evolved significantly over the years, reflecting her maturation as both an artist and a person.
Marling’s early music was marked by a raw, stripped-back sound, but over time she has embraced a more layered, experimental approach to her songwriting. Albums like Once I Was an Eagle and Semper Femina showcase her growth as an artist, incorporating a mix of folk, rock, and even jazz influences. Marling’s voice is often described as ethereal and haunting, with an ability to convey vulnerability and strength simultaneously. She has a unique way of blending introspection with social commentary, creating songs that resonate deeply with listeners on both a personal and universal level.
What sets Marling apart from many of her contemporaries is her commitment to authenticity and artistic evolution. She has never been afraid to take risks with her music, constantly experimenting with new sounds and exploring new themes. As a result, she has become one of the leading voices in modern folk music. Laura Marling’s work continues to inspire audiences and fellow musicians alike, establishing her as a powerful force in the folk music scene.
14. Iron & Wine
Iron & Wine, the musical project of Sam Beam, is known for its lush, intimate sound that blends folk, indie rock, and acoustic music. Since his debut album The Creek Drank the Cradle in 2002, Beam has captivated listeners with his soft-spoken vocals, poetic lyrics, and delicate acoustic arrangements. His music is often reflective, filled with themes of love, loss, and the passing of time, and it conveys a sense of warmth and vulnerability that invites listeners into his world. Songs like “Naked as We Came” and “Flightless Bird, American Mouth” have become modern folk staples, known for their haunting beauty and emotional depth.
What makes Iron & Wine’s music so captivating is its simplicity and warmth. Beam’s gentle voice and subtle arrangements create a sense of intimacy, as though he’s confiding in the listener. His lyrics are often poetic and abstract, but they evoke deep emotions, creating a connection with those who are attuned to the subtleties of his music. The lush soundscapes of albums like Our Endless Numbered Days and The Shepherd’s Dog have earned Beam critical acclaim, cementing his place as one of the foremost voices in modern folk.
Iron & Wine’s music has a timeless quality that speaks to universal human experiences, making it resonate with listeners of all ages. Sam Beam’s ability to craft songs that are both deeply personal and universally relatable has made him a beloved figure in contemporary folk music. His soothing voice, combined with his poetic songwriting, has touched the hearts of fans around the world, and Iron & Wine continues to be a defining force in the genre.
15. Mumford & Sons
Mumford & Sons are one of the most influential folk bands of the 21st century, known for their energetic sound that blends traditional folk instruments with modern rock elements. Their rise to fame began in the late 2000s with their debut album Sigh No More, which featured anthems like “Little Lion Man” and “The Cave.” These songs introduced the world to the band’s signature style—folk-inspired melodies, driving rhythms, and powerful lyrics. Their blend of banjo, mandolin, and acoustic guitar with a rock-band energy created a new sound that appealed to a wide audience and helped revitalize folk music for a younger generation.
Mumford & Sons’ music is known for its emotional intensity and its exploration of themes such as love, personal growth, and the human condition. Their lyrics often touch on feelings of struggle, redemption, and the desire for meaning in a complicated world. Songs like “I Will Wait” and “Hopeless Wanderer” are filled with passion and urgency, connecting with listeners on a deep, emotional level. The band’s distinctive sound is defined by Marcus Mumford’s expressive vocals and the tight harmonies and instrumentation from the rest of the band, including Winston Marshall on banjo, Ben Lovett on keyboard, and Ted Dibiase on drums.
What sets Mumford & Sons apart from other folk bands is their ability to evolve while still staying true to their roots. Their second album, Babel, further cemented their status as leaders in the folk-rock movement, and they continued to experiment with their sound on Wilder Mind, incorporating more electric elements and a broader range of influences. While their style has shifted over time, their ability to write songs that resonate with both personal and universal experiences has remained constant. Mumford & Sons continue to inspire listeners with their passion, innovation, and commitment to the genre. Their music remains a testament to the enduring power of folk music in the modern world.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
