The Best Folk Artists Of 2020
A truly gifted storyteller, Jason Isbell has consistently proven himself as one of the best folk artists in recent years. With his captivating lyrics and exceptional guitar skills, Isbell's music is both deeply personal and universally relatable. His 2020 album, Reunions, further solidified his status as a leading figure in the folk scene, exploring themes of love, loss, and redemption.
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Rayland Baxter
Rayland Baxter's unique blend of folk, rock, and Americana has established him as a standout artist in the genre. His soulful voice and introspective songwriting allow listeners to connect with him on an emotional level. With his latest release, Good Mmornin, Baxter showcases his versatility by covering Mac Miller songs, proving that he can expertly navigate both the folk and hip-hop worlds.
Ohio-based trio Caamp has quickly gained recognition for their blend of heartfelt lyrics and foot-stomping melodies. Since forming in 2015, the band has released several successful albums, including 2020's Live from Newport Music Hall. The live album highlights the group's infectious energy and showcases their ability to captivate audiences with their genuine passion for music.
Nathaniel Rateliff rose to prominence with the soulful sounds of his band Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats but has returned to his folk roots with 2020’s And It’s Still Alright. This collection of introspective songs showcases Rateliff's emotive voice and unparalleled ability to convey vulnerability through his music. Raw and honest, Rateliff draws listeners in with his poignant storytelling and deeply personal lyrics.
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Texas native Leon Bridges burst onto the music scene with his impressive debut, Coming Home, in 2015. Known for his smooth voice and retro soul-infused sound, Bridges has continued to demonstrate his versatility as an artist, incorporating elements of folk into his music. His 2020 EP Texas Sun, a collaboration with Khruangbin, fuses elements of Americana, soul, and psychedelic rock into a captivating listening experience.
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South African-born singer-songwriter Gregory Alan Isakov has quickly become one of the most beloved names in folk music, thanks to his soothing vocals and poetic lyrics. His 2019 release, Evening Machines, showcases Isakov’s masterful songwriting skills as he explores themes of life, love, and nostalgia within his warm acoustic soundscapes.
A seasoned singer-songwriter hailing from Kentucky, Chris Knight has spent decades perfecting his distinctive brand of folk-country storytelling. His gritty tales of rural life are complemented by his deep voice and sparse instrumentation. Knight's 2019 album Almost Daylight showcases his nuanced songwriting skills as well as collaborations with fellow artists like Lee Ann Womack.
Margo Price's powerful voice and honest songwriting have positioned her as one of Nashville's brightest stars in the world of country-folk music. Combining elements of classic country with modern pop sensibilities, Price creates music that resonates across generations. Her 2020 album That’s How Rumors Get Started showcases her growth as an artist while staying true to her roots.
A true craftsman in the art of songwriting, John Moreland has managed to capture the hearts of folk fans all around the world. With his gravelly voice and deeply emotional lyrics, Moreland has a unique ability to connect with listeners on a profound level. His 2020 album LP5 features intricately crafted songs that explore themes such as love, heartache, and hope.
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Joshua Hyslop
Canadian singer-songwriter Joshua Hyslop captivates listeners with his soothing vocals and reflective lyrics. Drawing inspiration from artists like Nick Drake and Damien Rice, Hyslop's introspective songwriting explores themes of love, loss, and personal growth. His 2020 single "Something More" is a hauntingly beautiful reminder of his talent as both a songwriter and performer.
Despite tragically passing away in April 2020 due to COVID-19 complications, John Prine remains one of the most esteemed folk artists of all time. With his ability to spin stories that touch on humanity's essential truths, Prine leaves behind a vast catalog of brilliant songs that will continue to inspire future generations of musicians.
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As an iconic figure in American folk music for over five decades, James Taylor's heartfelt songs and timeless voice continue to resonate with audiences worldwide. In March 2020, Taylor released his first album of original material in nearly six years, entitled American Standard. The release is a testament to Taylor's enduring presence and influence in the folk genre.
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Composed of Anaïs Mitchell, Eric D. Johnson, and Josh Kaufman, Bonny Light Horseman is a folk supergroup that has quickly gained attention for their modern interpretations of traditional tunes. Their self-titled 2020 debut album is a mesmerizing collection of reimagined folk classics that showcase the group's skillful musicianship and enchanting harmonies.
A bluegrass prodigy since her early teens, Sierra Hull has grown into one of the most respected musicians in the genre. Known for her virtuosic mandolin playing and emotive songwriting, Hull's music seamlessly blends traditional bluegrass with contemporary influences. Her 2020 album 25 Trips is a stunning collection of heartfelt songs that demonstrate her incredible talent as both a musician and a songwriter.
For over two decades, Drive-By Truckers have been delivering compelling stories of the American South through their blend of folk, country, and rock music. With their 2020 album The Unraveling, the band continues to tackle difficult topics like gun violence and opioid addiction. Their powerful storytelling and unflinching honesty have cemented their place as an influential voice in the folk scene.
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Dutch band Altın Gün has breathed new life into traditional Turkish folk music by combining it with modern elements such as psych-rock and funk. With their infectious energy and unique sound, Altın Gün introduces a whole new generation to the rich musical history of Turkey. Their 2020 album Yol is an exhilarating journey that showcases the band's ability to create a contemporary yet nostalgic sound.
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Rose Cousins
With her evocative voice and emotionally charged lyrics, Canadian artist Rose Cousins has become one of the brightest stars in the folk scene. Cousins' captivating storytelling abilities have earned her numerous accolades over the years for her deeply personal music. Her 2020 album Bravado is a triumphant exploration of vulnerability in all its forms.
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Born in Syria and raised in Saudi Arabia before settling in Los Angeles, Bedouine brings a unique perspective to her folk music. Her delicate vocals are paired with intricate guitar work to create a hypnotic sound that transports listeners to another world. Her 2019 album Bird Songs of a Killjoy highlights her captivating storytelling abilities while exploring themes of love, loss, and self-discovery.
Montana-based string band The Lil Smokies infuses traditional bluegrass with modern influences, creating a fresh and invigorating take on roots music. With their tight harmonies, intricate instrumentals, and high-energy performances, The Lil Smokies have established themselves as a must-see act on the festival circuit. Their 2020 album Tornillo showcases the band's diverse talents and relentless passion for making music.
20Sumbuck
Sumbuck is the solo project of Buck Meek, who is best known for his work as a guitarist in the indie rock band Big Thief. On his 2020 debut single "Two Saviors," Meek displays his own unique brand of folk storytelling with vivid imagery and heartfelt lyrics. Sumbuck's dreamy soundscapes serve as an impressive introduction to a promising new voice in folk music.
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British singer Yola is quickly becoming one of the most exciting new voices in roots music, blending country, soul, and blues into her captivating sound. With her powerful vocals and emotive songwriting, Yola’s 2019 debut album Walk Through Fire earned her four Grammy nominations. As she continues to make waves in the world of Americana and folk music, Yola has proven that she is an artist to watch.
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Andy Shauf
Saskatchewan-born artist Andy Shauf has garnered attention from critics and fans alike for his detailed storytelling and distinct vintage sound. On his 2020 album The Neon Skyline, Shauf weaves a complex narrative of love and heartbreak, demonstrating his skill as a gifted songwriter. With his melancholy voice and unique arrangements, Shauf has solidified his place as one of the most compelling voices in modern folk.
Canadian indie-folk outfit The Strumbellas has made a name for themselves with their catchy, anthem-like songs and spirited live performances. Their unique blend of folk, rock, and pop has earned them fans from all over the world. Their 2019 album Rattlesnake is a testament to their undeniable talent as songwriters and musicians, showcasing their ability to create emotionally resonant tunes that stick in listeners' minds.
Veteran singer-songwriter Chuck Prophet has been crafting engaging stories within his blend of Americana, folk-rock, and pop for decades. His ability to take listeners on evocative journeys through time and space has helped him maintain a dedicated fan base throughout his long career. Prophet's 2020 album The Land That Time Forgot offers a fresh collection of well-crafted songs that showcase his enduring talent as a storyteller.
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Hamilton Leithauser
Former Walkmen frontman Hamilton Leithauser has transitioned effortlessly into a successful solo career with his distinct voice and soulful, folk-inspired tunes. His 2020 album The Loves of Your Life is a collection of stories about individuals he encountered on his travels, creating an intimate and personal listening experience.
Country-folk band Little Big Town has been captivating audiences with their intricate harmonies and heartfelt lyrics for over two decades. Their 2020 album Nightfall showcases the group's continued ability to push boundaries within the genre while remaining true to their roots. With a perfect balance of tender ballads and upbeat anthems, Little Big Town further solidifies their status as one of country music's most enduring acts.
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Formerly known as the Dixie Chicks, this iconic trio made an explosive comeback in 2020 with their album Gaslighter. Embracing their folk roots while incorporating elements of pop and rock, The Chicks' powerful harmonies and fearlessly honest songwriting continue to resonate with fans new and old alike. As trailblazers in the world of country-folk music, The Chicks have proven time and time again that they remain a creative force to be reckoned with.
