Three Types of Folk Music You Might Not Know About
You might not think of folk music as being particularly varied, but there are actually several different types of folk music out there. In this blog post, we’ll introduce you to three types of folk music you might not know about.
Intro to folk music
Folk music is music that is passed down from generation to generation. It is music that is not written down, but is instead passed on through oral tradition. Folk music is often about the everyday lives of the people who sing it. There are many different types of folk music, and in this article, we will be talking about three of them.
What is folk music?
Folk music is a type of traditional music that is typically passed down from generation to generation orally. It often has a simple melody and is accompanied by acoustic instruments. Folk music is found in all cultures around the world and has been a part of human society for thousands of years.
There are many different types of folk music, each with its own unique history and traditions. Here are three types of folk music you might not be familiar with:
1. Appalachian folk music is a type of folk music that originated in the Appalachian Mountains in the United States. This region is home to some of the earliest European settlers in America, who brought with them their own musical traditions. Appalachian folk music is characterized by its use of banjo, fiddle, and dulcimer, as well as its focus on stories and ballads about the region’s history and culture.
2. Cajun folk music is a type of folk music that originated in Louisiana, USA, by French settlers who were forced to leave their homeland in Acadia (present-day Nova Scotia) during the 18th century. Cajun folk music is characterized by its use of accordion, fiddle, and guitar, as well as its focus on stories and ballads about the region’s history and culture.
3. Irish folk music is a type of folk music that originated in Ireland. It is characterized by its use of Celtic instruments such as the Irish flute, tin whistle, and Celtic harp, as well as its focus on stories and ballads about the region’s history and culture.
The three types of folk music
Folk music is a genre of music that is often passed down orally from one generation to the next. It is typically accompanied by acoustic instruments such as guitars, banjos, and fiddles. Folk music has its roots in the oral traditions of various cultures, and it often tells stories or expresses sentiments about the human experience.
There are many different types of folk music, each with its own unique history and sound. Here are three types of folk music you might not be familiar with:
Cajun music is a type of folk music that originated in the French-speaking regions of Louisiana in the United States. Cajun music is known for its upbeat rhythms and lively melodies. Many Cajun songs are about love, friendship, and dancing.
Appalachian folk music is a type of folk music that originated in the Appalachian Mountains in the eastern United States. Appalachian folk music is often characterized by its plaintive melodies and dark lyrics. Songs about loss, death, and poverty are common in this genre.
Celtic folk music is a type of folk music that originated in the Celtic nations of Europe. Celticfolk music is known for its beautiful melodies and lush instrumentation. This type of folk music often tells stories about Irish mythology or celebrates Celtic culture and heritage.
Traditional Folk Music
Folk music is a type of music that is passed down orally from generation to generation. Folk music is typically about the everyday lives of the people who create it and is meant to be enjoyed by everyone. There are many different types of folk music, but in this article, we’ll be focusing on three in particular: traditional folk music, work songs, and ballads.
What is traditional folk music?
Traditional folk music is a genre of music that represents the traditions of a culture or region. It is often passed down orally from generation to generation. Folk music can be songs, instrumental pieces, or simply storytelling. It often has a strong connection to the people and places where it originated.
Traditional folk music has been around for centuries. It was originally created by people who did not have access to formal education or musical training. Over time, the genre has evolved and changed to reflect the times and cultures where it is being performed.
Today, there are many different types of traditional folk music from all over the world. Here are three you might not know about:
1) Korean P′ansori
P′ansori is a type of Korean folk music that dates back to the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910). It is traditionally performed by a single singer accompanied by a drummer. The singer tells a story through song, often using erhu-like sounds and hand gestures to convey emotions.
2) Egyptian Shaabi Music
Shaabi is a type of Egyptian folk music that emerged in Cairo in the 1940s. It is usually performed by groups of musicians playing brass instruments and percussion instruments such as tabla and darbuka. The lyrics often deal with everyday life and problems faced by working-class Egyptians.
3) Japanese Min’yo Music
Min’yo is a type of Japanese folk song that dates back to the Edo period (1603-1868). It covers a wide range of topics such as love, work, nature, and religion. Min’yo songs are usually accompanied by shamisen, taiko drums, and other traditional Japanese instruments.
Examples of traditional folk music
Traditional folk music is a genre that developed over many years and contains a great deal of variation. It can be difficult to define, but some examples of traditional folk music might include ballads, work songs, sea shanties, and religious music.
Folk music has been passed down from generation to generation and often contains elements of the culture from which it came. It is often used to tell stories or communicate important cultural values. Traditional folk music is usually performed acoustically, without the use of amplifiers or other electronic devices.
There are many different types of traditional folk music, and it can be influenced by the region in which it originates. For example, American folk music is often influenced by the music of Celtic cultures, while Nordic folk music sometimes includes elements of Polka.
Traditional folk music can be a great way to connect with your heritage and learn more about your ancestors. It can also be simply enjoyable to listen to and dance to! If you’re interested in learning more about traditional folk music, there are many resources available online and in libraries
Contemporary Folk Music
If you’re a fan of folk music, you might think you know everything there is to know about the genre. However, you might be surprised to learn that there are actually many different types of folk music. In this article, we’ll be discussing contemporary folk music, which is a type of folk music that is influenced by popular culture.
What is contemporary folk music?
Contemporary folk music is a genre of music that combines traditional folk music with influences from more recent musical genres, such as alternative rock, punk rock, and hip hop. While the term is often used to refer to the music of the 1960s and 1970s “folk revival,” it can also be applied to more recent musicians who have incorporated folk influences into their work.
Examples of contemporary folk music
Contemporary folk music is a genre that encompasses a wide variety of styles. From traditional folk songs to modern takes on the genre, there is a wide range of music that can be classified as contemporary folk. Here are three examples of contemporary folk music that you might not be familiar with.
Sufjan Stevens:
Sufjan Stevens is a singer-songwriter who first gained popularity in the early 2000s with his album “Michigan”. His music has been described as “a mix of indie rock, folksy harmonies, and orchestral arrangements”. Stevens’s unique sound has earned him critical acclaim and a large following among fans of contemporary folk music.
The Decemberists:
The Decemberists are a band from Portland, Oregon who have been making music together since the early 2000s. Their sound has been described as “a blend of indie rock and chamber pop with a touch of Celtic influence”. The band’s use of traditional instruments such as the accordion and mandolin give their music a unique folk flavor.
Laura Marling:
Laura Marling is a British singer-songwriter who first gained attention with her debut album “Alas, I Cannot Swim”. Marling’s music has been likened to that of Joni Mitchell and Bob Dylan, two other well-known folk musicians. Her beautiful voice and thoughtful lyrics have won her many fans among lovers of contemporary folk music.
Indie Folk Music
Indie folk music is a subgenre of folk music that originated in the United States and the United Kingdom in the late 1970s. Indie folk is a crossover between traditional folk music and indie rock. The term “indie folk” was first coined by Simon Reynolds in his 2005 book Rip It Up and Start Again: Postpunk 1978-1984. Indie folk artists are usually signed to independent record labels and use traditional folk instruments such as acoustic guitars, banjos, and violins.
What is indie folk music?
Indie folk music is a subgenre of folk music that combines traditional folk with independent rock and pop elements. It typically features acoustic guitars, drum kits, and harmonicas, and is often characterized by its mellow, yet upbeat sound.
Some of the most popular indie folk artists include Fleet Foxes, Sufjan Stevens, and Iron & Wine. While these artists may have different styles, they all share a common core sound that is unique to the genre.
If you’re looking for something new to listen to, or just want to explore the world of indie folk music, here are three artists you should check out:
The Paper Kites: The Paper Kites are an Australian indie folk band that formed in 2010. Their music is characterized by its warm acoustic sound and airy melodies. The band has released three studio albums, each of which has received critical acclaim.
Recommended Songs: “Bloom,” “Electric Indigo,” “Featherstone”
Passenger: Passenger is the stage name of British singer-songwriter Mike Rosenberg. He first gained popularity in 2009 with his debut albumWide Eyes Blind Love. His music is defined by its intimate lyrical style and gentle instrumentation. Rosenberg has released eight studio albums as Passenger, with his most recent being 2019’s Runaway.
Recommended Songs: “Let Her Go,” “Angels,” “Survivors”
Run River North: Run River North is an American indie folk band from Los Angeles, California. The band’s sound is influenced by their Korean heritage, as well as a variety of other genres including rock and pop. They have released four studio albums, the most recent of which being 2018’s Monsters Calling Home.
Recommended Songs: “Wake Up,” “Run or Hide,” “Monsters Calling Home”
Examples of indie folk music
While many people are familiar with traditional folk music, fewer are familiar with the subgenre of indie folk. Indie folk is a type of alternative music that combines elements of traditional folk music with indie rock.
Indie folk began in the early 2000s, and its popularity has grown in recent years. The genre is typified by its use of acoustic instruments, vocal harmonies, and lyrics that focus on personal stories and emotions.
If you’re interested in exploring the world of indie folk, here are three examples of the genre that you might not know about:
-The Tallest Man on Earth: This Swedish musician is known for his distinctive voice and fingerpicking style. His songs often deal with themes of love and loss, drawing on personal experiences for inspiration.
-Bon Iver: This American band rose to prominence in the early 2010s with their debut album For Emma, Forever Ago. The album was written and recorded in isolation by bandleader Justin Vernon, and its intimate feel has come to define the band’s sound.
-Fleet Foxes: This Seattle-based band is known for their lush harmonies and intricate arrangements. Their songs often explore themes of nature and spirituality, inspired by lead singer Robin Pecknold’s upbringing in the Pacific Northwest.
