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Folk Music

Folk Music Feature Writer: Craig Sanders

Folk Music is the well from which all other modern music is drawn from. It is the music of the common people, and at times has also been their voice. In modern times, Folk Music has become the default genre for music that does not fit elsewhere comfortably. Artists as diverse as Townes Van Zandt, Taj Mahal, and The Old 97s fall under Folk's wide umbrella.

This section will cover the entire folk music spectrum: americana, acoustic, bluegrass, alt-country, folk-blues, protest music, roots, singer/songwriters, and traditional music from around the world. From Irish jigs to Iron & Wine, you'll find it here. Check back for frequent updates, in depth analysis, news articles, CD reviews, and profiles of musicians.

Look to Craig Sanders' Blog for a more informal, irreverent, and humorous view on Music.


Feature Writer Articles in Folk Music

The True Story of the Midnight Special
Suite101 shines a light on the traditional American Folk song, Midnight Special
Review: Allison Moorer "Crows"
Allison Moorer has released the finest album of her career, a dark collection of tracks called Crows.
The Watson Twins: Talking to You, Talking to Me
The magic of twins sparkle over the Watson Twins' latest album, Talking to You, Talking to Me
The True Story of Charlie on the MTA
"Let me tell you a story 'bout a man named Charlie" and the song that made him famous, "Charlie on the MTA."
Artist Profile: Kaitlyn Eller
New folk singer Kaityln Eller captivates audiences with her striking, personal lyrics


Contributing Articles in Folk Music

Lori McKenna: "Pieces Of Me" (2001) CD
Album features excellent songwriting and Lori's strong and always interesting voice.
Sing Out! Magazine and Tony Kearney
Our modern acquisition-driven lives can leave us longing for something more. Singing music together builds community. Add homemade food and it's a perfect evening.
Live Folk Singing For Beginners
You've been warbling your favourite tunes in the shower for a long time now, and you reckon you sound pretty good - but are you ready to let others hear your talents?
Ellis Paul: "The Speed Of Trees" (2002) CD
Ellis Paul is one of the best songwriters, and this album of twelve songs shows his talent not only for songwriting, but for singing. It's a great recording.
"Mbube", "Wimoweh", "The Lion Sleeps Tonight"
Solomon Linda wrote a song that eventually earned millions of dollars, but he died in such poverty that it took his family 18 years to buy a tombstone for his grave.
Irish Drinking Songs (1998) CD Review
Compilation has twelve Irish songs for drinking, dancing and celebrating.
Hats Off To Roy Harper
Roy Harper's music, lyrics, and links to Led Zeppelin and Pink Floyd have made him a cult legend. His albums are now available for download in MP3 and FLAC on his site.
Gaelic Storm: "Herding Cats" (1999) CD
Gaelic Storm, famous for being the band that played the lower decks in the film "Titanic," includes several instrumentals and original songs on this CD.
Folk Music Concert Reviews - Americana Revisited
The Felice Brothers play a show at The Living Room on Ludlow Street in the Village of New York City and offer a deep glimpse into their music, personalities and purpose.
The Whooligans: "The Whooligans" CD Review
The Whooligans are a seriously fun band doing mostly traditional Irish songs. The band is based in Long Beach, California.
Irish Beer Drinking Favorites CD Review
This compilation of Irish songs is the perfect accompaniment to a day of drinking and dancing (so not just on St. Patrick's Day).
" The King of Bluegrass" Jimmy Martin
Jimmy Martin took the baton from Bill Monroe, keeping the formula for the sound of Traditional Bluegrass and by doing so, added his greatness to its history.
Jon Svetkey: "This Is Now" (1992) CD
Jon Svetkey gets a bit of help from fellow End Construction members Ellis Paul and Brian Doser on this wonderful album.
Townes Van Zant The Quintessential Folk Singer
Steve Earle said this of his friend "Townes Van Zandt was the best songwriter that ever lived & he would stand on Bob Dylan's coffee table in his cowboy boots and say it"
Cat Stevens: "Mona Bone Jakon" (1970)
Album showcases Cat Stevens' great songwriting skills.

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