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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 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
The True Story of Stagger Lee
Shots ring out on a Christmas night and a legend is born. Read on for the True Story of Stagger Lee.
The True Story of Follow the Drinking Gourd
"Follow the Drinking Gourd" is more than just a catchy folk song. It is a secret map that marked a trail along the Underground Railroad.
The True Story of Casey Jones
Casey Jones was more than just a character in a song. Jones was a real person, famous for one moment in time, and one incredible act of heroism.


Contributing Articles in Folk Music

Leonard Cohen: "Various Positions" (1984)
This album was not initially released in the United States, but has proved in the years since to be an incredible recording.
Leonard Cohen: "Death Of A Ladies' Man"
Leonard Cohen's fifth studio release (and seventh album overall) seems forgotten by many, and ignored on greatest hits packages.
Leonard Cohen Tour Postponed
After more than a week of speculation by fans, an announcement was finally made that Leonard Cohen's tour will be pushed back to September of this year.
Review of I Know Who Holds Tomorrow
Alison Krauss has always had a keen ear for talent. She struck gold when she teamed with bluegrass gospel band, The Cox Family to record a contemporary bluegrass classic.
Leonard Cohen: "Dear Heather"
A new Leonard Cohen album is always cause for celebration, and this CD is no exception.
15 Essential Recordings by Del McCoury
Del McCoury got his big break in bluegrass with Bill Monroe in 1963. This playlist surveys his career from Monroe to Moneyland.
Sing Out! –Folk Music's Magazine and Ellis Paul
Sing Out! Magazine has held the folk music community together for 60 years. It helped sustain Ellis Paul, a popular and socially responsible songwriter.
Review of The Bluegrass Sound of Bill Clifton
In 1961, Starday released a collection of songs from this lesser-known bluegrass artist. But Bill Clifton made bluegrass history for a very different reason that year.
Bob Dylan's Blues
Songs like "Milkcow Calf's Blues," albums like the Minnesota Tapes and influences like Blind Willie McTell defined the folk-blues sound that was Bob Dylan's blues music.
New Leonard Cohen DVD To Be Released 2010
Leonard Cohen recently finished a nearly two-year tour in San Jose last November. The popularity of the tour has renewed interest in live recordings and concert footage.
Folk Musicians Support Red Cross Haitian Relief
Haiti's earthquake dominates the thoughts of folk musicians and fans at Binghamton's Cranberry Coffeehouse. John Kirk and Trish Miller inspire gifts to the Red Cross.
The Madame Pamita Show
Armed with a ukulele and a Tarot deck, Madame Pamita brought her fortune-telling folk-singing experience to Culver City last night.
Mumford and Sons Debut Album Review
"Sigh No More," the proclaimed debut album from Folk band Mumford & Sons is not only hugely popular but it showcases the musical skill to become a modern classic.
Review of Some Day by Blue Highway
Boasting three acclaimed songwriters in Shawn Lane, Wayne Taylor, and Tim Stafford, Blue Highway offers much more than a greatest hits package with Some Day.
Nashville Bluegrass Band Explores Gospel Roots
In their landmark album, To Be His Child, The Nashville Bluegrass Band delves into the roots of bluegrass gospel with songs from both black and white gospel repertoire.

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