Folk Music Videos You Can Watch on YouTube
Looking for some great folk music videos to watch on YouTube? We’ve got you covered! Check out our top picks for the best folk music videos on YouTube.
The Best of the Best
There are so many great folk music videos on YouTube! It’s hard to narrow it down to just a few, but here are some of our favorites. Whether you’re a fan of traditional folk music or looking to discover something new, there’s something for everyone in this list.
“The Riddle Song” by Ellis
Ellis’ performance of “The Riddle Song” is a perfect example of the67 folk music videos you can watch on YouTube.
This particular video is significant because it represents a style of music that has largely been forgotten in recent years. “The Riddle Song” is a traditional folk song that was popular in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It was typically sung by laborers who worked long hours in factories or on farms.
Ellis’ performance is special because she brings this old song back to life with her beautiful voice and catchy ukulele playing. The video has been viewed over 1.5 million times, making it one of the most popular folk music videos on YouTube.
“The Cuckoo” by Béla Fleck and Abigail Washburn
This delightful song by Béla Fleck and Abigail Washburn has been a favorite of mine since I first heard it. The two banjo players are just so talented and their playing is so tight that it’s impossible not to enjoy this video.
“The Cuckoo” is a traditional folk song that was popularized by the duo in the United States. The song is about a bird that returns to its nest every spring, signaling the arrival of warmer weather.
“I Wish I Was a Mole in the Ground” by Bascom Lamar Lunsford
This is a true American folk song, written and performed by Bascom Lamar Lunsford. Lunsford was born in Mars Hill, NC in 1882, and was a self-taught musician. He played the banjo, fiddle, and guitar. He performed at square dances, church functions, and local events. In 1928 he helped to organize the first Mountain Dance and Folk Festival in Asheville, NC, which is still held annually. He continued to perform and record into the 1960s. This song was originally recorded in 1924 and was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1999.
The Funniest
There’s nothing like watching a good folk music video to get you in the mood for a fun night. YouTube is full of them, and we’ve compiled a list of the funniest ones for you to enjoy.
“The Fox” by Nic Jones
This hilarious video features British folk singer Nic Jones performing his song “The Fox.” The video has been viewed over two million times on YouTube and has been featured on numerous websites and blogs.
“The Witch of Westmereland” by Steeleye Span
This delightful video features the British folk rock band Steeleye Span in a live performance of their song “The Witch of Westmereland.” The song is a humorous take on the legend of the witch of Westmereland, who was said to have terrorized the English county of Lancashire in the 16th century. The band members dress up as characters from the legend, and the video includes footage of them acting out scenes from the story. It’s a fun and creative take on a traditional folk tale, and it’s sure to make you laugh.
“The Battle of New Orleans” by Johnny Horton
This video is a perfect example of how music can bring people together, even in the midst of conflict. In the spirit of friendly competition, two groups of people – one from New Orleans and one from Boston – face off in a battle of the bands, with each group performing a traditional folk song. The video is set during the American Civil War, and features some amazing costumes and sets. It’s also just really funny, with both groups trying their best to one-up each other. If you’re a fan of folk music, or just want to see something truly unique, this video is definitely worth a watch.
The Most Beautiful
“The Water Is Wide” by Karine Polwart
Karine Polwart is a Scottish singer-songwriter and musician. She is known for her rich, emotive voice and for her songwriting, which often deals with themes of nature, love, mortality, and loss. Polwart has won several awards for her music, including the 2006 Scottish Album of the Year Award and the 2008 BBC Folk Singer of the Year Award.
“The Water Is Wide” is a traditional Scottish ballad that tells the story of a young woman who is forced to leave her home and lover behind to go live with her wealthy uncle. The song is both sad and beautiful, and Karine Polwart’s performance is simply stunning. The video features gorgeous shots of the Scottish countryside interspersed with footage of Polwart performing the song. It’s a lovely folk music video that you’re sure to enjoy.
“She Moved Through the Fair” by Planxty
This Irish folk song dates back to the 19th century, and has been recorded by many artists over the years. Planxty is a well-known Irish folk band, and their version of “She Moved Through the Fair” is absolutely stunning. The music video features footage of the Irish countryside, as well as the band members performing the song.
“Wild Mountain Thyme” by Eva Cassidy
Eva Cassidy’s cover of the classic folk song “Wild Mountain Thyme” is a must-watch for any fan of beautiful music videos. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the video features Cassidy’s gorgeous vocals and guitar playing as she wanders through a field of wildflowers. The cumulative effect is absolutely mesmerizing, and it’s easy to see why this video has amassed nearly five million views on YouTube.
