Folk music is the heartbeat of storytelling, a timeless genre that transcends borders, generations, and cultures. It’s a tapestry woven with raw emotion, poetic lyrics, and melodies that seem to echo straight from the soul. Over the decades, folk music has given voice to the struggles, hopes, and dreams of the people, becoming a powerful medium for social change and personal introspection. At its core lies the ability to connect deeply with listeners, offering comfort, inspiration, and a sense of belonging.
This article celebrates the top 15 best folk music singers of all time—legends who have shaped the genre and left an indelible mark on the world of music. From iconic pioneers who revolutionized the folk scene to modern-day troubadours who carry the torch forward, these artists have captivated audiences with their profound storytelling and unforgettable melodies. Whether it’s the stirring protest songs of the 1960s, the haunting ballads of love and loss, or the celebration of cultural heritage, these singers have defined what it means to be a folk artist.
Join us as we honor the voices that have carried the spirit of folk music through the ages—voices that have not only told stories but have written history itself.
1. Bob Dylan
Bob Dylan isn’t just a folk singer—he’s a cultural icon, a poet, and a revolutionary voice in music history. Emerging in the early 1960s, Dylan redefined what folk music could be, using it as a platform for protest, social commentary, and deeply personal storytelling. His unmistakable, raspy voice and unconventional singing style may not have fit the traditional mold, but his lyrics spoke louder than any polished melody ever could.
Songs like “Blowin’ in the Wind” and “The Times They Are A-Changin’” became rallying cries for the civil rights and anti-war movements, proving that music had the power to inspire change. Heavily influenced by folk legend Woody Guthrie, Dylan took the genre to new heights, blending traditional folk structures with a biting lyrical style that challenged authority and societal norms. His transition to electric music with Highway 61 Revisited and Blonde on Blonde sparked controversy, but it also cemented his status as a fearless innovator willing to push boundaries.
Beyond his protest anthems, Dylan mastered the art of introspection, penning poetic and deeply personal songs like “Tangled Up in Blue” and “Don’t Think Twice, It’s All Right.” His ability to evolve throughout his decades-long career is unparalleled, influencing countless artists across multiple genres. Whether he was crafting raw folk ballads, electrified rock epics, or gospel-inspired hymns, Dylan’s music remained deeply authentic.
In 2016, he became the first songwriter to win the Nobel Prize in Literature, a testament to the depth of his lyrical genius. Dylan’s influence on music and culture is immeasurable. He didn’t just write songs—he shaped movements, challenged minds, and left a legacy that continues to inspire musicians and audiences alike.
2. Joan Baez
Joan Baez is more than just a folk singer—she is a symbol of peace, justice, and unwavering commitment to activism. With a voice that is both angelic and commanding, Baez has used her music to give power to the voiceless and shed light on social and political injustices. Rising to prominence in the early 1960s, she became a defining figure of the folk revival, often performing traditional ballads, protest songs, and spirituals with breathtaking emotional depth.
Her rendition of “We Shall Overcome” became the anthem of the civil rights movement, and her hauntingly beautiful song “Diamonds & Rust”—written about her relationship with Bob Dylan—showcases her poetic brilliance. Baez was instrumental in bringing Dylan to national attention, inviting him to perform at her concerts before he became a star in his own right. The two shared a deep artistic and ideological connection, shaping the sound and message of folk music for years to come.
Beyond music, Baez has been an outspoken advocate for human rights, environmental causes, and nonviolent resistance. She marched alongside Martin Luther King Jr., protested the Vietnam War, and has continued to use her platform for activism throughout her career. She has performed for political prisoners, stood against oppressive regimes, and never wavered in her dedication to justice.
Even as folk music evolved, Baez remained a respected and influential force. Her voice, still crystal-clear decades into her career, carries the same passion and sincerity that first captivated audiences in the early ’60s. Whether she’s performing traditional folk classics or original compositions, Joan Baez remains a true icon—a woman whose music and message continue to inspire generations.
3. Woody Guthrie
Woody Guthrie is the foundation on which modern folk music stands. A true voice of the people, Guthrie chronicled the struggles and triumphs of the working class, giving them a voice through his songs. Born during the Great Depression, he traveled the country with migrant workers, witnessing firsthand the hardships of poverty, injustice, and economic despair. These experiences shaped his music, making his songs both deeply personal and universally relatable.
His most famous song, “This Land Is Your Land,” is often mistaken for a simple patriotic anthem, but in reality, it was a powerful critique of economic inequality, celebrating the land that belonged to the common people, not just the wealthy elite. Guthrie’s lyrics were raw, poetic, and unfiltered, addressing issues of labor rights, social justice, and human dignity.
Guthrie’s impact on folk music is immeasurable. He directly influenced Bob Dylan, Joan Baez, and countless others who followed in his footsteps, using music as a tool for change. His guitar, famously inscribed with the words “This Machine Kills Fascists,” symbolized his unwavering commitment to fighting oppression through his art.
Though he was later diagnosed with Huntington’s disease, which ultimately took his life, his songs continue to inspire new generations. His spirit lives on in the countless artists who sing for justice, equality, and the rights of everyday people. Woody Guthrie wasn’t just a musician—he was a movement, a voice for those who had none, and a legend whose influence can still be felt in folk and protest music today.
4. Joni Mitchell
Joni Mitchell is one of the most influential and innovative folk artists of all time. Known for her poetic lyricism, ethereal voice, and genre-blending style, Mitchell’s music transcends folk, incorporating elements of jazz, rock, and pop. Her ability to express deep emotions with striking honesty has made her an enduring icon in music history.
Her landmark 1971 album Blue is often regarded as one of the greatest albums of all time. Songs like “River,” “A Case of You,” and “All I Want” showcase her unparalleled ability to turn personal heartache into universally relatable art. Mitchell’s confessional songwriting, filled with raw vulnerability and intricate melodies, set a new standard for folk music.
Beyond Blue, Mitchell’s catalog is filled with groundbreaking music. Tracks like “Both Sides Now” and “Big Yellow Taxi” demonstrate her brilliance at crafting both introspective ballads and politically charged anthems. While her early work was firmly rooted in folk, she continuously evolved, exploring new sounds and pushing boundaries in ways few folk artists dared to.
Mitchell’s influence is immeasurable. Artists from Bob Dylan to Taylor Swift have cited her as a major inspiration. She changed the way folk music was written, proving that it could be deeply personal yet profoundly universal. Despite battling health challenges in recent years, Mitchell’s legacy remains stronger than ever, with her music continuing to resonate with listeners around the world.
Few artists have ever achieved the level of artistic depth and innovation that Joni Mitchell has. She is a true visionary, an artist whose work defies categorization, and a folk legend whose songs will be cherished for generations to come.
5. Pete Seeger
Pete Seeger was more than just a folk musician—he was a movement. A singer, songwriter, and activist, Seeger used his music to unite people and champion social justice causes for more than seven decades. With his banjo in hand and a voice full of conviction, he inspired countless generations to stand up for what they believed in, whether it was workers’ rights, civil rights, or environmental activism.
As a member of The Weavers, Seeger helped bring folk music to mainstream audiences in the late 1940s and early 1950s with songs like “Goodnight, Irene.” However, his career took a hit during the Red Scare when he was blacklisted for his leftist political views. That didn’t stop him. Instead, he doubled down on his activism, performing at rallies and protests, using music as a tool for resistance and change.
Seeger’s compositions and interpretations of traditional folk songs became anthems for social movements. “If I Had a Hammer,” “Turn! Turn! Turn!” and “Where Have All the Flowers Gone?” are timeless calls for justice, peace, and environmental responsibility. His ability to bring people together through music was unparalleled—he didn’t just perform; he encouraged audiences to sing along, making them active participants in the message.
Beyond his own music, Seeger played a crucial role in reviving folk music in America, inspiring artists like Bob Dylan, Joan Baez, and Bruce Springsteen. Even in his later years, he remained a vocal advocate for progressive causes, proving that music could be a powerful force for good. Pete Seeger didn’t just sing about a better world—he spent his entire life working to create one.
6. Simon & Garfunkel
Few folk duos have ever reached the level of artistry and success achieved by Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel. With their impeccable harmonies and introspective songwriting, Simon & Garfunkel created some of the most enduring folk songs of the 1960s, blending poetic storytelling with hauntingly beautiful melodies.
Their breakthrough hit, “The Sound of Silence,” perfectly captured the loneliness and disconnection of modern life, resonating deeply with a generation in search of meaning. It was just the beginning. Songs like “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” “Mrs. Robinson,” and “The Boxer” showcased their ability to combine folk traditions with pop sensibilities, creating music that was both deeply personal and universally relatable.
Paul Simon’s songwriting was unmatched—his lyrics were poetic, reflective, and often tinged with melancholy, while Garfunkel’s ethereal voice elevated each song to a transcendent level. Together, they crafted a sound that was uniquely their own, one that still feels fresh and relevant today.
Despite their immense success, tension between the two led to their breakup in 1970. However, their influence never faded. Their music has been covered and celebrated by countless artists, and their songs continue to be a staple of folk and pop culture.
Even after going their separate ways, both Simon and Garfunkel continued to have successful solo careers. But when they reunited—whether for the famous 1981 Concert in Central Park or other one-off performances—it was clear that their magic as a duo was something truly special. Simon & Garfunkel weren’t just folk musicians; they were storytellers, poets, and musical architects of an era. Their songs, full of longing, nostalgia, and beauty, remain timeless classics.
7. Leonard Cohen
Leonard Cohen wasn’t just a folk musician—he was a poet, a philosopher, and a storyteller whose music explored love, spirituality, longing, and the human condition. His deep, gravelly voice and haunting melodies set him apart from other folk artists, creating a style that was as enigmatic as it was profound.
Cohen’s songwriting was often compared to literature, filled with rich symbolism, biblical references, and deep emotional weight. His song “Suzanne,” one of his earliest hits, beautifully blends romance with mysticism, creating a dreamlike atmosphere that still captivates listeners today. But it was “Hallelujah” that became his most enduring masterpiece. Originally released in 1984, the song was largely overlooked until it was reinterpreted by Jeff Buckley, among others, and has since become one of the most covered and revered songs of all time.
Other Cohen classics like “Bird on the Wire,” “Famous Blue Raincoat,” and “So Long, Marianne” showcase his ability to weave deeply personal stories with universal themes of love, loss, and redemption. His music was never about flashy instrumentation or grand arrangements; instead, it relied on subtle melodies and lyrics that lingered in the listener’s mind long after the song had ended.
Even in his later years, Cohen continued to release powerful albums, proving that his artistry only deepened with time. His 2016 album You Want It Darker, released shortly before his passing, was a haunting farewell, a meditation on mortality and faith. Leonard Cohen’s legacy is that of a poet who used music to explore life’s deepest questions. His songs continue to resonate with those searching for meaning in the beauty and sorrow of existence.
8. Emmylou Harris
Emmylou Harris is one of folk and country music’s most beloved voices. With her signature blend of folk, country, and bluegrass, she has built a career that spans decades, enchanting audiences with her ethereal voice and heartfelt storytelling. Harris is a rare artist who can make any song her own, whether it’s an original composition or a cover of an old classic.
Her early years were shaped by her collaboration with Gram Parsons, a country-rock pioneer who introduced her to the world of Americana. After Parsons’ untimely passing, Harris carried on his legacy while carving out her own path. Albums like Pieces of the Sky and Elite Hotel showcased her ability to take traditional country-folk sounds and elevate them with her crystalline voice and impeccable phrasing.
Songs like “Boulder to Birmingham,” a tribute to Parsons, and “Pancho and Lefty” display her gift for emotional storytelling. But Harris is more than just a singer—she’s a curator of American roots music, often reinterpreting songs with a fresh, heartfelt perspective. Her willingness to experiment has kept her music evolving, from traditional folk to alternative country, and even ambient folk with her acclaimed album Wrecking Ball.
Her influence can be heard in generations of artists who followed, from alt-country singers to contemporary folk musicians. Whether performing solo or collaborating with legends like Dolly Parton, Linda Ronstadt, and Willie Nelson, Emmylou Harris has remained a guiding force in American folk music. Her voice, pure and timeless, carries the weight of history while always looking forward.
9. Cat Stevens
Cat Stevens, now known as Yusuf Islam, brought a warmth and introspective depth to folk music that resonated with listeners worldwide. His gentle yet powerful songwriting made him one of the defining artists of the 1970s folk-rock movement, with a style that blended poetic storytelling, soothing melodies, and spiritual reflection.
Stevens’ music often explored themes of self-discovery, love, and the journey through life. Songs like “Wild World,” “Father and Son,” and “Peace Train” captured the universal struggles of growing up, saying goodbye, and searching for meaning. His ability to distill complex emotions into simple, beautiful melodies made his music deeply relatable and enduring.
His 1970 album Tea for the Tillerman remains a landmark in folk music, featuring timeless tracks that continue to inspire new generations. With his signature fingerpicking guitar style and tender vocals, Stevens crafted songs that felt deeply personal yet spoke to the shared experiences of many.
In the late 1970s, he stepped away from the music industry to focus on his spiritual journey, converting to Islam and devoting himself to philanthropy. After a long hiatus, he returned to music, continuing to share his message of peace, love, and understanding with audiences around the world.
Cat Stevens’ legacy is one of heartfelt introspection and universal appeal. His music, filled with wisdom and sincerity, remains a comforting presence in a world that often feels chaotic. His songs remind us to slow down, reflect, and embrace life’s journey with an open heart.
10. Judy Collins
Judy Collins’ angelic voice and masterful interpretations of folk music have made her one of the genre’s most enduring and beloved artists. With a career spanning over six decades, she has breathed new life into traditional folk songs while also championing contemporary songwriters. Her ability to convey deep emotion with clarity and grace has set her apart as one of the great voices of folk music.
Collins first gained recognition in the 1960s folk revival, earning praise for her stunning renditions of songs like “Both Sides Now,” written by Joni Mitchell, and “Send in the Clowns,” which became one of her signature songs. Her clear, soaring soprano, combined with her keen interpretative skills, allowed her to transform these songs into deeply moving musical experiences.
Beyond her gift for interpretation, Collins is also a skilled songwriter. Her 1975 album Judith showcased her talents beyond folk, incorporating elements of pop and orchestration while retaining the heartfelt storytelling that defined her early work. Throughout her career, she has embraced a wide range of musical styles, from traditional ballads to Broadway tunes, proving her versatility as an artist.
Collins was also deeply involved in activism, using her platform to advocate for civil rights, peace, and environmental causes. Her music often reflected the turbulent social changes of the 1960s and 1970s, making her an important voice in both music and activism. Even today, she continues to record and perform, her voice as clear and emotive as ever.
With a career filled with timeless songs, Judy Collins remains a guiding force in folk music, reminding us of the power of storytelling and the beauty of a well-sung melody.
11. Phil Ochs
Phil Ochs was one of the most fearless voices of the 1960s folk movement. A passionate protest singer, he used his music to confront issues of war, injustice, and political corruption. While often compared to Bob Dylan, Ochs had a unique ability to blend sharp wit, humor, and unflinching honesty into his songs, making him one of the most compelling voices of his time.
Songs like “I Ain’t Marching Anymore” and “There but for Fortune” became anthems for the anti-war movement, resonating with young people disillusioned by the Vietnam War and the political climate of the era. His biting satire and storytelling ability allowed him to craft songs that were both deeply personal and broadly political, giving a voice to those who felt unheard.
While Ochs is best remembered for his protest songs, his work went beyond activism. His later albums showcased a more introspective and poetic side, delving into themes of loneliness, mental health, and disillusionment. Unfortunately, his struggles with depression and personal demons led to his untimely passing in 1976, cutting short a career that had so much more to offer.
Despite his tragic end, Ochs’ legacy lives on through his music. His songs remain relevant today, proving that great protest music never loses its power. In a world still grappling with injustice, his voice continues to inspire new generations of activists and musicians who believe in the power of song to change the world.
12. John Prine
John Prine was a songwriter’s songwriter—an artist whose keen observations of life’s joys and struggles made him one of the most beloved voices in folk and Americana music. With a blend of humor, heartbreak, and plainspoken wisdom, Prine’s songs captured the essence of everyday life in a way few others could.
Discovered by Kris Kristofferson in the early 1970s, Prine quickly made a name for himself with his self-titled debut album, which featured classics like “Angel from Montgomery” and “Sam Stone.” These songs told vivid, heartbreaking stories of ordinary people—war veterans, lonely housewives, and lost souls—set against the backdrop of simple yet unforgettable melodies.
Prine’s genius lay in his ability to find beauty in the mundane and humor in the sorrowful. Songs like “Hello in There” captured the loneliness of aging, while “Illegal Smile” showcased his sharp wit. He never shied away from difficult topics, often addressing issues like war, addiction, and mortality with a mixture of compassion and playfulness.
Over the years, Prine continued to write and perform, earning the admiration of fellow musicians from Bob Dylan to Bonnie Raitt. His later albums, including The Tree of Forgiveness (2018), proved that his storytelling magic never faded. Even after battling illness, Prine remained a beacon of warmth and wisdom in the folk world.
When Prine passed away in 2020, the music world lost a giant, but his songs live on. Whether making us laugh, cry, or simply reflect on life’s little moments, his music remains as timeless as ever.
13. Richie Havens
Richie Havens was a force of nature, a folk artist whose raw, soulful voice and percussive guitar playing made him one of the most electrifying performers of his era. His music carried an urgency that set him apart from other folk singers, and his passionate performances made him an unforgettable figure in the folk world.
Havens’ career-defining moment came at Woodstock in 1969, where he was the festival’s opening act. Scheduled to play for only a short time, he ended up performing for nearly three hours when other artists were delayed. His powerful, improvised song “Freedom,” built off the spiritual “Motherless Child,” became one of the most iconic performances in rock history, capturing the spirit of a generation yearning for change.
Beyond Woodstock, Havens’ career was filled with remarkable music. His deep, gravelly voice brought a fresh perspective to covers like “Here Comes the Sun” and “Just Like a Woman.” He had a gift for taking well-known songs and transforming them into something entirely his own, infusing them with raw emotion and intensity.
Havens wasn’t just a musician—he was also an activist, deeply committed to causes like civil rights and environmental protection. His music reflected his ideals, calling for peace, unity, and social justice.
Even after decades in the industry, Havens never lost his fire. His music and performances continued to inspire, proving that folk music isn’t just about storytelling—it’s about feeling. Richie Havens was a true original, and his spirit lives on in the power of his voice and the passion of his performances.
14. Buffy Sainte-Marie
Buffy Sainte-Marie is one of folk music’s most groundbreaking artists, a trailblazer whose songs blend activism, spirituality, and raw emotion. As an Indigenous singer-songwriter, she has used her music as a tool for social change, advocating for Indigenous rights, peace, and environmental justice. Her fearless approach to songwriting, combined with her distinctive vibrato and powerful lyrics, has cemented her legacy as a folk music pioneer.
Her 1964 debut album It’s My Way! introduced the world to her bold voice and uncompromising storytelling. Songs like “Universal Soldier” became anthems for the anti-war movement, criticizing the cycle of violence and those who perpetuate it. Meanwhile, “Now That the Buffalo’s Gone” shed light on the mistreatment of Indigenous peoples in North America, a theme that would remain central to her work.
Unlike many of her folk contemporaries, Sainte-Marie embraced innovation. She was one of the first artists to use electronic synthesizers in folk music, particularly on her 1969 album Illuminations, which was decades ahead of its time. Her willingness to push musical boundaries, combined with her activism, made her a unique force in the genre.
Over the years, Sainte-Marie has continued to reinvent herself, collaborating with artists across multiple genres while staying true to her mission of raising awareness for Indigenous communities. Her contributions to music, education, and activism have earned her countless accolades, including an Academy Award for songwriting.
Buffy Sainte-Marie’s legacy goes beyond her music—she has inspired generations to stand up for justice, to embrace their heritage, and to use art as a means of change. She remains an icon of resilience and creativity in folk music and beyond.
15. Arlo Guthrie
Arlo Guthrie, the son of folk legend Woody Guthrie, carved out his own legacy as a masterful storyteller and performer. While he carried on his father’s tradition of using music to speak for the common people, he also infused his work with a sense of humor and a playful spirit that made him a singular figure in the folk world.
Guthrie’s most famous song, “Alice’s Restaurant Massacree”, is a prime example of his wit and storytelling genius. Clocking in at over 18 minutes, the song is an amusing yet sharp critique of bureaucracy, war, and the absurdities of American life. The song became a counterculture anthem and solidified Guthrie’s place as a voice for the anti-establishment movement of the 1960s.
But Guthrie was much more than just a humorist—his deep, resonant voice and folk roots made him a compelling performer of both traditional and original songs. Hits like “City of New Orleans” showcased his ability to bring warmth and nostalgia to a song, while “Coming into Los Angeles” captured the rebellious energy of the era.
Throughout his career, Guthrie remained committed to the folk tradition, keeping his father’s music alive while also expanding on it. His performances often felt like storytelling sessions, where audiences were treated to anecdotes, history lessons, and heartfelt reflections alongside the music.
Even after decades of performing, Guthrie’s impact on folk music remains strong. His ability to blend humor, activism, and storytelling has influenced countless artists, and his songs continue to resonate with audiences who appreciate folk music’s power to entertain, inform, and inspire.
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.
