Folk

Learn about the genre with this compilation of 10 great Irish jigs.

Listen to a selection of beautiful and vibrant, traditional music from the six Celtic nations.

Some of the best known Christmas songs have been covered by a variety of popular artists. We look at the classic tune, "O Little Town of Bethlehem" and rank 14 contenders. Which do you prefer?

For years, the Appalachian region has been a creative reservoir for many types of music. This is especially true for country western songwriters, who have chosen to leave their mountain homes to find success in Nashville, both at the Grand Ole Opry and the many recording labels that flourish there.

Hobos or bums have most likely been around since we abandoned our hunter-gathering societies and created city-states. In the USA, songs about hard times often go back to the Great Depression, but in reality the roots are much deeper. Following are ten 20th century tunes about being out on the lam.

From Emmylou Harris to First Aid Kit, roots music and folk have evolved from many genres. If you are looking for the ultimate list of contemporary and traditional folk, bluegrass, and old-time music, here it is.

Sea shanties came from the era of the tall-masted sailing ships of yesteryear, and they had their own language in songs.

No matter how you look at it, the Mississippi River defines the American experience better than any other waterway within the United States. Notwithstanding, there exist a whole slurry of songs and stories that further describe life on the mighty river. These songs express the power of this river.

Scotland and Ireland have a rich musical heritage. It's interesting, enjoyable, and sometimes educational to explore traditional folk songs from the two countries.

Trees can be beautiful and impressive. They have inspired the lyrics of many songs, including lovely folk and traditional songs of England, Scotland, and Wales.

The Old West is a much fabled part of our national culture. Selected here are ten songs and ballads that reflect the richness and adversity of those who ventured into the region, as it was being settled.

Everybody loves a good ghost story, and everybody loves a good song. Combine the two and now you have something extra special that just might tingle your spine on a dark, chilly night.

A wee bit of history regarding pub music and drinking songs from Ireland, Scotland, England, and even the United States.

Julie Fowlis is a popular Scottish folk singer and musician. She generally sings in Gaelic and is involved in collecting the traditional songs of the Hebrides.

Jimmy MacCarthy is a leading Irish songwriter. He creates contemporary folk songs that often contain interesting imagery that can be interpreted in several ways.

The DuShane Band creates varied sonic textures that blend modern studio sounds and arrangements with Southern rock and classic country.

Kick back and enjoy as I introduce you to a talented musician that entertains folks in Florida and soon in Nashville. Shine on, Dakota Hurley!

An analysis and proposed meaning of "Tennessee Whiskey," written in 1980 by Dean Dillon and Linda Hargrove but more recently recorded by Chris Stapleton in 2015.

Some of the best country songs ever made are male/female duets. There is something inherently powerful about the way these songs blend both voices and perspectives to create a relatable narrative.

Wales has a wonderful musical heritage. Known for its vocal music, singers, and choirs, folk and traditional songs are an important part of Welsh culture.

England has a rich collection of traditional folk songs. This article includes performances of four songs and describes the interesting background of the music.

A look at one of the most influential pop duos in history. How they came together and drifted apart only to reunite every decade or so after and their enduring appeal of more than 50 years.

Independent country music artist Camille Rae knows what she wants and she's going for it. She tells us all about it in this interview.

Traditional Igbo musical instruments are vibrant and interesting. made out from local materials such as tree trunks, logs, animal skin and pots. they produce a unique sound

Country music soothes the soul as does the musical sounds of country singer Emma Jane from the U.K.

Hey, y'all, come on in! Kick back and enjoy a Nashville experience as I introduce you to a talented musician that entertains country music fans in Music City.

Kick back and enjoy as I introduce you to a talented musician that entertains folks in California and Nashville. Stephan Hogan shines from coast to coast.

Reed on to enjoy a Nashville experience as I introduce you to a talented musician that entertains country music fans on Broadway.

Bob Dylan is a cultural giant and has written some of the most influential songs of recent times but are the lyrics poetry? Think of songs such as Hey Mr Tambourine Man and Blowin In The Wind. A close-up look at some of Dylan's best known lyrics to decide once and for all if he is a true poet.

Kick back and enjoy as I introduce you to Brett Stafford Smith, a talented Nashville musician.

This beloved folk song about a little boy and his imaginary dragon named Puff was released by the folk trio Peter, Paul and Mary in 1963. The song was written by Leonard Lipton, whose inspiration for the song came from the poem "The Tale of Custard the Dragon."

Ten female country music artists who had a brief glimpse of stardom before fading from the county music charts. Bios, videos, trivia, photos, links and more!

Kenneth McKellar was a popular tenor known for his beautiful interpretation of Scottish vocal music. He died in 2010, but his music lives on in many recordings.

The meaning of "Hallelujah,’" a masterpiece of music, is perhaps best understood in its complex historical context. The song’s meaning has evolved with its history of surprises, pain, comfort, death, and life.

Folk and acoustic tunes tend to be well written, full of rich and touching lyrical content, that can add a nostalgic touch to the tone of your wedding. Check out these ten great songs!

A fingerstyle guitar arrangement of the English folk song "Lovely Joan" in standard music notation and tablature with audio track and playing tips included.

All you need to know about Scottish folk-rock band Capercaillie's "Skye Waulking Song."

This is a comprehensive list of the top traditional Irish, Welsh, Celtic, and Scottish tunes (complete with song samples).

The 1960s was an exciting but dangerous era. The Vietnam War and fight for civil rights were tearing the U.S. apart. This article suggests a meaning of "Let's Get Together" by the Youngbloods.

The State of Texas has its own distinct kinds of country music and folk music—here are five Texas singer songwriters that changed music and made timeless songs.

The message and songs from the hippie era carry on today with artists from a new generation. Popular music from the late '60s and early '70s.

A look at one of the greatest music videos of all time: Johnny Cash's "Hurt." Includes interview clips with Rick Rubin, Trent Reznor, and Mark Romanek, who all played a part in putting together this incredibly moving and unforgettable piece of work.

A simple song has danced its way around the world and into the hearts of millions. This is a celebration of Elder Joseph Brackett's simple little song "Simple Gifts" which has outlasted the Church for which it was written.