Modern Folk Music Trends for 2015

It’s a new year, and that means new music trends to watch out for! Here are some modern folk music trends for 2015 that you should keep your eye on.

The Return of Vinyl

There’s no denying that the Digital Age has had a profound effect on the music industry, irrevocably changing the way we consume and enjoy music. Even so, it seems that some modern music lovers are harkening back to a simpler time, when music came on tangible formats like vinyl records.

In recent years, there’s been a surge in popularity for vinyl records, with many people clamoring to get their hands on vintage turntables and speakers. Even new artists are releasing their music on vinyl, charmed by the warm, organic sound that can only be achieved through this medium.

It’s not just audiophiles who are drawn to vinyl; there’s also a certain cool factor associated with this retro format. More and more people are displaying their collections of records proudly in their homes, and trendy record stores are popping up in cities around the world.

If you’re thinking of starting your own vinyl collection, or are simply curious about this resurgent trend, here are some of the most popular modern folk releases available on wax:

The Rise of the Singer-Songwriter

The past few years have seen a resurgence in folk music, with a new generation of artists taking up the mantle of folk icons like Bob Dylan and Joan Baez. One of the most notable trends in this new wave of folk music is the rise of the singer-songwriter.

Singer-songwriters are solo artists who write and perform their own songs, often on acoustic guitars. They are known for their confessional, introspective lyrics, and their focus on personal stories and emotions. Many singer-songwriters have found success in the indie folk scene, which has exploded in popularity in recent years.

Some of the most successful singer-songwriters of recent years include Passenger, John Mayer, Ed Sheeran, and Sam Smith. These artists have all found huge mainstream success by writing catchy, emotionally resonant songs that connect with listeners on a personal level.

Expect to see more singer-songwriters breaking into the mainstream in 2015, as this trend shows no signs of slowing down.

The Resurgence of Folk-Punk

One of the most exciting and interesting modern folk music trends is the resurgence of folk-punk. Folk-punk is a genre that takes the traditional sound of punk rock and infuses it with elements of folk music. This unique blend of two genres has produced some truly amazing and original music in recent years.

Folk-punk first gained popularity in the late 1970s and early 1980s with bands like The Pogues and The Mekons. These bands took the energy and raw power of punk rock and combined it with the traditional sounds of Celtic and English folk music. The result was a new and exciting sound that quickly gained a loyal following.

In recent years, there has been a new wave of folk-punk bands that are taking this sound in new and interesting directions. Bands like The Leaving Certs, The Dropkick Murphys, and Flogging Molly are carrying on the legacy of folk-punk and bringing it to new audiences around the world.

If you’re looking for something new and different in the world of modern folk music, be sure to check out some of these exciting bands!

The Growth of Americana

Modern Americana or Americana music is a fusion genre of rock, country, blues, and folk. Americana is generally considered to be an updated version or derivative of country music and folk music. Some purists may object to the categorization of Americana as a genre distinct from traditional genres, while others may feel that it is a more accurate representation of the musical landscape in the United States. While the definition of Americana can be hard to pin down, there are some common elements that are often found in this type of music.

The Proliferation of Indie Folk

In recent years, there has been a proliferation of indie folk bands and artists who have been influenced by the likes of Sufjan Stevens, Fleet Foxes, and Bon Iver. These artists have brought a new sound to the genre that is characterized by its use of acoustic instruments, soaring harmonies, and often complex song structures. In 2015, we expect to see more of this sound as it continues to gain popularity.