The 65 Best Folk Singers, Ranked

Ranker Music
Updated June 1, 2024 90.5K views 65 items
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20.6K votes
1.9K voters

In the auditory history of the world, the popular songs of folk music artists figure prominently. From the heart-warming baritone of Canadian singer-songwriter Gordon Lightfoot to the profound lyrics of American master folksingers Woody Guthrie and Bob Dylan, these individuals inspire audiences with their compelling narratives and distinct voices. Dylan, Lightfoot, and Guthrie are just a few examples of the many folk luminaries who have shaped this genre, making it a real challenge to identify the best folk singers of all time. 

Diving into the realm of folk music, you will discover a treasure trove of musical gems. The chart-topping melodies, poignant lyrics, and unique vocal styles of eminent folk artists echo within the hearts of listeners, encapsulating their life experiences and validating their emotions. Authentic and relatable, these folksingers have garnered  prestige in both niche circles and the mainstream. Their legacies stand as testament to their timeless appeal.

Take Bob Dylan for instance, a brilliant poet and Nobel prize winner whose songs transcend the boundaries of time. His deeply philosophical ballads, coupled with his distinctive raspy voice, have created a cult following. Then there's the soothing baritone of Gordon Lightfoot, whose vivid storytelling paints a realistic image of life in his homeland. His timeless ballad "If You Could Read My Mind" is a hauntingly beautiful melody that lingers long after the music fades. Woody Guthrie, frequently regarded as the godfather of American folk music, has left an enduring mark on the genre. His songs address burning issues like social inequality and political activism, highlighting the power of music as a tool for change. 

With this collection, you can embark on a melodious journey through the work of the greatest folk music artists of all time. Each artist infuses their music and lyrics with a captivating charm that resonates with audiences. And while we can all debate who qualifies as the greatest folk singers, all agree that their folk songs forge a lasting connection with listeners. Wrapped up in these soulful tunes, fans worldwide find solace, joy, and inspiration to make the world a little better.   

Most divisive: Mumford & Sons
Over 1.9K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of All-Time Best Folk Bands
  • Bob Dylan
    1

    Bob Dylan

    602 votes

    A legend in the folk music scene, Bob Dylan has been a prominent figure for over five decades. With his distinctive voice and poetic lyrics, he has captured the hearts and minds of generations. His vast songwriting catalog includes iconic songs like "Blowin' in the Wind" and "The Times They Are a-Changin'", which have left their mark on the world and solidified his place as an influential force in folk music.

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  • Joan Baez
    2

    Joan Baez

    353 votes

    Folk troubadour Joan Baez has been inspiring audiences for over six decades with her powerful voice and unwavering commitment to social justice. As an integral part of the 1960s folk revival, Baez lent her voice to both traditional folk songs and protest anthems alike, cultivating a robust catalog of music that still resonates today. Her work in activism and ability to inspire through song make Joan Baez a true icon in the world of folk music.

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  • Joni Mitchell
    3

    Joni Mitchell

    402 votes

    An artist whose immense talent transcends genre constraints, Joni Mitchell is a folk icon who has continually reinvented herself throughout her career. From her raw confessional songwriting on albums such as Blue to her intricate and innovative guitar playing, Mitchell has played a crucial role in shaping modern folk music. Her ability to seamlessly blend elements of jazz, pop, and rock into her work demonstrates her versatility as an artist.

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  • John Denver
    4

    John Denver

    368 votes

    John Denver possessed an uncanny ability to create picturesque scenes of nature and rural life through his soulful folk ballads. With hit songs like "Take Me Home, Country Roads" and "Rocky Mountain High," Denver's music captured the essence of the American West. His warm voice and heartfelt lyrics brought a sense of comfort and connection to his listeners, making him a beloved figure in the world of folk music.

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  • Jim Croce
    5

    Jim Croce

    398 votes

    Jim Croce was a singer-songwriter whose emotive storytelling and memorable melodies made him a beloved figure in the world of folk music. Though his career was tragically cut short by a plane crash in 1973, Croce left behind an enduring legacy through songs like "Time in a Bottle" and "Operator." His deeply personal lyrics resonated with audiences, allowing them to connect with the heartache and joy expressed in his work.

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  • Woody Guthrie
    6

    Woody Guthrie

    343 votes

    Woody Guthrie is often regarded as the founding father of modern American folk music, with his influence felt through generations of artists who came after him. Writing songs that focused on issues such as social injustice, worker's rights, and political activism, Guthrie paved the way for artists like Bob Dylan to emerge. Songs like "This Land is Your Land" continue to be sung around campfires and in classrooms as a testament to Guthrie's lasting impact on not only folk music but American culture as a whole.

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  • Gordon Lightfoot
    7

    With his warm baritone voice and storytelling prowess, Gordon Lightfoot has been captivating audiences since the 1960s. Hailing from Canada, Lightfoot's songs are deeply rooted in the experiences of his homeland, with tracks like "Canadian Railroad Trilogy" painting vivid pictures of life up north. His timeless ballad "If You Could Read My Mind" showcased his ability to create hauntingly beautiful melodies that stay with listeners long after the music fades.

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  • James Taylor
    8

    James Taylor

    305 votes

    Iconic singer-songwriter James Taylor's evocative storytelling and tender melodies have made him a beloved figure in the folk genre for over five decades. With well-known songs like "Fire and Rain" and "Carolina in My Mind," Taylor's introspective lyrics strike a chord with audiences, connecting with their shared human experiences. His soothing voice and deft guitar-playing skills continue to captivate generations of fans, solidifying his status as a folk music icon.

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  • Carole King
    9

    Carole King

    237 votes

    Carole King is not only an accomplished songwriter but also an extraordinary musician in her own right. With her 1971 album Tapestry, King cemented her status as a folk music powerhouse, delivering heartfelt ballads such as "It's Too Late" and "You've Got a Friend." King's influence on the genre is undeniable, with her introspective lyrics and captivating melodies leaving a lasting impact on both fans and fellow artists alike.

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  • John Prine
    10

    John Prine

    243 votes

    John Prine was an American folk singer-songwriter hailed as one of the most talented and influential artists in the genre. With a unique ability to bring humor, depth, and sincerity to his songwriting, Prine's songs often provided a poignant commentary on the human experience. Tracks like "Angel from Montgomery" and "Paradise" showcase Prine's remarkable storytelling capabilities and cement his status as a folk icon.

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  • The Weavers
    11

    The Weavers

    167 votes

    Formed in 1948, The Weavers were instrumental in popularizing folk music in the United States during the post-World War II era. Known for their tight harmonies and diverse repertoire of both traditional and contemporary songs, The Weavers brought folk music into the mainstream as few had before them. Songs like "Goodnight Irene" and "If I Had a Hammer" remain enduring classics within the genre, showcasing their unique ability to share stories through song.

  • Cat Stevens
    12

    Cat Stevens

    260 votes

    British singer-songwriter Cat Stevens (also known as Yusuf Islam) has been enchanting listeners with his introspective lyrics and soothing melodies since the late 1960s. With hits like "Wild World" and "Father and Son," Stevens' ability to convey raw emotion through his songs resonated deeply with fans. His thoughtful explorations of spirituality, love, and the human experience have left a lasting legacy in the world of folk music.

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  • Neil Young
    13

    Neil Young

    356 votes

    Neil Young is an enigmatic figure in the world of folk music, continually experimenting with different musical styles and pushing boundaries throughout his career. With his powerful voice and thought-provoking lyrics, young has produced some of folk's most memorable moments, including tracks like "Heart of Gold" and "Old Man." His fearless approach to music-making has made him one of the most respected figures in the genre.

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  • Leonard Cohen
    14

    Leonard Cohen

    310 votes

    Canadian poet and singer-songwriter Leonard Cohen became a beloved figure in folk music for his deeply introspective lyrics and haunting baritone vocals. Known for his songs "Suzanne" and "Hallelujah," Cohen pushed the boundaries of what constitutes folk music by blending elements of pop, gospel, and even electronic sounds into his work. With an unparalleled talent for evoking emotion and connecting with listeners, Cohen remains an influential presence in the world of folk.

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  • Linda Ronstadt
    15

    With a career spanning more than four decades, Linda Ronstadt showcased her exceptional vocal range and versatility by dipping into various genres, including folk, country, rock, and pop. However, it was her rich interpretations of traditional folk ballads and heartfelt original compositions that set her apart as a truly influential figure within the folk genre. Ronstadt's passion for creating authentic connections with her audience continues to inspire generations of artists.

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  • Judy Collins
    16

    Judy Collins

    129 votes

    With her crystal-clear soprano voice and a repertoire that spans traditional folk songs to contemporary covers, Judy Collins has been captivating audiences for over five decades. Known for her renditions of songs like "Both Sides Now" and "Amazing Grace," Collins has introduced generations of listeners to the beauty and power of folk music. Her unwavering commitment to honesty and authenticity in her performances makes her a true icon within the genre.

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  • Kris Kristofferson
    17

    Kris Kristofferson is a modern-day renaissance man: songwriter, actor, and country music legend. His contributions to the folk world are monumental, with songs like "Me and Bobby McGee" and "Sunday Mornin' Comin' Down" showcasing his undeniable knack for storytelling through honest lyrics. Kristofferson's rugged voice and keen sense of melody make him an influential figure who has left an indelible mark on the world of folk music.

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  • Donovan
    18

    Donovan

    194 votes

    Scottish singer-songwriter Donovan's mystical lyrics and gentle melodies earned him the nickname "the British Bob Dylan" during the 1960s folk revival. With hits like "Catch the Wind" and "Hurdy Gurdy Man," Donovan's music combines elements of pop, psychedelia, and traditional folk, creating a unique sound that continues to inspire listeners today. His whimsical storytelling and enchanting melodies make him an enduring figure in the world of folk music.

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  • Fairport Convention
    19

    Fairport Convention

    139 votes

    Formed in 1967, Fairport Convention is regarded as a pioneer of British folk-rock. Throughout the years, the band has consistently pushed boundaries by embracing traditional English folk music and blending it with elements of rock and electric instrumentation. With a wide-ranging and evolving lineup that has included iconic artists such as Richard Thompson and Sandy Denny, Fairport Convention has left a profound impact on the folk genre with songs like "Who Knows Where the Time Goes" and "Matty Groves."

  • John Sebastian
    20

    John Sebastian

    140 votes

    As the founder and frontman of The Lovin' Spoonful, John Sebastian helped push folk music into new territory during the 1960s by blending elements of rock, pop, and blues with traditional folk sensibilities. With songs like "Summer in the City" and "Do You Believe in Magic," Sebastian's knack for crafting catchy melodies and heartfelt lyrics left an indelible mark on the folk landscape. His influence can still be felt today as younger artists continue to experiment with genre boundaries.

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  • Stephen Stills
    21

    As a member of iconic groups like Buffalo Springfield and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, Stephen Stills established himself as a formidable force within the world of folk music. With his intricate guitar work, distinctive vocals, and powerful songwriting capabilities, Stills has penned tracks that have become folk classics, such as "For What It's Worth" and "Suite: Judy Blue Eyes." His ability to merge thought-provoking lyrics with memorable melodies makes him a truly influential artist.

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  • Buffy Sainte-Marie
    22

    Buffy Sainte-Marie

    132 votes

    As a singer-songwriter, activist, and visual artist, Buffy Sainte-Marie has been an influential figure in the world of folk music since the 1960s. With her powerful songs addressing topics like love, indigenous rights, and environmental issues, Sainte-Marie's music remains as vital today as it was during her early career. Her contributions to the folk genre include iconic tracks like "Universal Soldier" and "Up Where We Belong," showcasing her incredible range as an artist.

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  • Steeleye Span
    23

    Steeleye Span

    106 votes

    Emerging in the early 1970s, British folk-rock band Steeleye Span helped shape the sound of modern folk music by blending traditional tunes with electric instruments and contemporary production techniques. Known for their innovative arrangements and powerful vocal harmonies, the band has produced enduring classics like "All Around My Hat" and "Thomas the Rhymer." Steeleye Span's unique fusion of old and new has left an indelible mark on the folk genre and continues to influence future generations of musicians.

  • Chet Atkins
    24

    Chet Atkins

    99 votes

    Though primarily known as a country guitarist extraordinaire, Chet Atkins made significant contributions to the world of folk music through his innovative fingerpicking style. His intricate playing inspired countless musicians to adopt similar techniques, helping to shape the sound of modern folk guitar. Atkins' versatility as a musician allowed him to collaborate with artists across various genres, further enriching his impact on the folk music landscape.

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  • John Hartford
    25

    With his storytelling prowess, warm voice, and mastery of various instruments, John Hartford contributed significantly to the world of folk music throughout his extensive career. Tracks like "Gentle on My Mind" reveal his impressive songwriting skills while his innovative approach to music helped carve out a unique niche for him within the genre. Hartford's contributions to folk music will long be remembered by fans and fellow artists alike.

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  • Lucinda Williams
    26

    Lucinda Williams is a Grammy-winning singer-songwriter whose raw and honest lyrics have captivated fans for decades. With her distinctive voice and deft guitar playing, Williams has crafted songs that blur the lines between folk, country, and rock genres. Tracks like "Passionate Kisses" and "Car Wheels on a Gravel Road" showcase her ability to create vivid narratives filled with emotion and depth, solidifying her status as a true folk artist.

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  • Leon Russell
    27

    Leon Russell

    92 votes

    A multi-talented musician whose career spanned over five decades, Leon Russell left his mark on the folk music landscape with his distinctive voice and memorable songs. His heartfelt ballads like "A Song for You" and "Tight Rope" displayed his ability to craft powerful narratives that resonated with audiences. Though he passed away in 2016, Russell's contributions to the world of folk music continue to inspire future generations of artists.

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  • The Lumineers
    28
    The Lumineers are an American folk rock band based in Denver, Colorado. The founding members are Wesley Schultz (lead vocals, guitar) and Jeremiah Fraites (drums, percussion, piano). Schultz and Fraites began writing and performing together in Ramsey, New Jersey in 2005. Cellist and vocalist Neyla Pekarek (cello) joined the band in 2010, and was a member until 2018. The Lumineers emerged as one of the most popular folk-rock/Americana artists during the revival of those genres, their popularity growing in the 2010s. The band's stripped back raw sound draws heavily from artists that influenced Schultz and Fraites such as Bruce Springsteen, Bob Dylan and Tom Petty. They are known for their energetic live shows and several international hit singles including "Ho Hey", "Stubborn Love", "Ophelia" "Angela" and "Cleopatra." The band has become one of the top touring bands in the United States and is also popular in other countries.
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  • Pentangle
    29

    Pentangle

    102 votes

    The innovative British folk group Pentangle, composed of talented musicians like Bert Jansch and John Renbourn, made significant contributions to the world of folk music by blending traditional styles with contemporary jazz and blues influences. Their intricate musicianship and hauntingly beautiful vocal harmonies can be heard on tracks such as "Light Flight" and "Bells." Pentangle's unique approach to the genre has left a lasting impact on folk music and continues to inspire its future evolution.

  • Kate & Anna McGarrigle
    30

    Sisters Kate & Anna McGarrigle were a Canadian folk duo known for their breathtaking harmonies, poignant lyrics, and exquisite musicianship. Their heartfelt songs such as "Heart Like a Wheel" and "Talk to Me of Mendocino" have resonated with audiences around the world. Though Kate tragically passed away in 2010, their collective work continues to leave a lasting impact on the world of folk music.

  • Marianne Faithfull
    31

    Marianne Faithfull's dulcet tones and soulful songwriting have made her a revered figure within the world of folk music. From her 1960s success with tracks like "As Tears Go By" to her more recent work, Faithfull's commitment to authenticity and emotive storytelling has solidified her status as a true icon in the genre. Her ability to continually evolve as an artist ensures that her work remains both relevant and influential.

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  • Maddy Prior
    32

    Maddy Prior

    97 votes

    As lead vocalist for Steeleye Span and a solo artist, Maddy Prior has been an influential figure in the British folk-rock scene for over five decades. Known for her powerful voice and emotive performances, Prior has helped bring traditional folk music to new generations of fans. Her work with Steeleye Span, as well as her various solo projects, showcases her incredible talent and passion for the folk genre.

  • Richard Thompson
    33

    Richard Thompson's immense talent as a singer, songwriter, and guitarist has made him a mainstay in the world of folk music since his early days with Fairport Convention. His solo work, both electric and acoustic, showcases his compelling storytelling abilities and skillful musicianship. Songs like "Beeswing" and "1952 Vincent Black Lightning" offer powerful narratives that have solidified Thompson's status as one of the greatest artists in the folk genre.

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  • Janis Ian
    34

    Janis Ian

    118 votes

    Janis Ian's poignant and introspective lyrics have resonated with generations of folk fans since she burst onto the scene in the 1960s. Her candid songwriting on topics such as love, loss, and self-identity has made her an influential figure within the genre. Songs like "At Seventeen" and "Society's Child" showcase Ian's ability to address complex themes through her beautiful melodies, making her a beloved figure in folk music.

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  • Sufjan Stevens
    35

    Since the early 2000s, Sufjan Stevens has captivated audiences with his elaborate compositions, introspective lyrics, and genre-defying soundscapes. Often incorporating elements of folk, electronic, and orchestral music into his work, Stevens has consistently pushed the boundaries of what constitutes modern folk music. Songs like "Casimir Pulaski Day" and "Mystery of Love" showcase his exceptional songwriting abilities and prove why he's considered a groundbreaking artist within this genre.

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  • Jimmie Rodgers
    36
    James Frederick Rodgers (born September 18, 1933 in Camas, Washington) is an American singer. Rodgers had a brief run of mainstream popularity in the 1950s and 1960s with a string of crossover singles that ranked highly on the Billboard Pop Singles, Hot Country and Western Sides and Hot Rhythm and Blues Sides charts; in the 1960s, Rodgers had more modest successes with adult contemporary music. He is not related to the earlier country singer Jimmie C. Rodgers, who coincidentally died the same year the younger Rodgers was born. Among country audiences, the younger Rodgers is often known as Jimmie F. Rodgers to differentiate the two.
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  • Jewel
    37

    Jewel

    107 votes

    With her ethereal voice and deeply personal lyrics, Jewel quickly became a prominent figure in the world of folk music during the 1990s. Albums like Pieces of You showcased her ability to craft intimate narratives that resonated with listeners, cementing her status as an influential artist within the genre. Tracks like "Who Will Save Your Soul" and "You Were Meant for Me" demonstrate Jewel's unique contributions to the world of folk music.

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  • Ben Harper
    38

    Ben Harper

    69 votes

    Ben Harper's remarkable songwriting skills, distinctive voice, and exceptional guitar playing have made him a beloved figure in the world of folk music since the 1990s. With a knack for blending elements of rock, blues, and reggae into his work, Harper has consistently pushed boundaries within the genre. Tracks like "Diamonds on the Inside" and "Burn One Down" showcase his versatility as an artist and demonstrate why he remains an influential force in folk music.

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  • Lisa Loeb
    39

    Lisa Loeb

    60 votes

    Lisa Loeb rose to fame in the 1990s with her smash hit "Stay (I Missed You)," which showcased her poignant lyrics and captivating voice. Since then, Loeb has continued to blend elements of pop and folk in her music, creating a unique sound that resonates with listeners across generations. Her contributions to the folk genre make her an influential artist who has left a lasting impact on the landscape of modern folk music.

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  • The Rankin Family
    40
    The Rankin Family is a Canadian musical family group from Mabou, Nova Scotia. The group has won many Canadian music awards, including 15 East Coast Music Awards, six Juno Awards, four SOCAN Awards, three Canadian Country Music Awards and two Big Country Music Awards.
  • Al Stewart
    41

    Al Stewart

    74 votes

    Scottish singer-songwriter Al Stewart is known for his blend of historical storytelling and timeless melodies that have captivated audiences since the 1960s. His unique approach to songwriting shines through on tracks like "Year of the Cat" and "Nostradamus." With his evocative lyrics and unmistakable voice, Stewart has made a lasting impact on the world of folk music.

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  • The Incredible String Band
    42

    The Incredible String Band

    55 votes
    The Incredible String Band (sometimes abbreviated as ISB) were a British psychedelic folk band formed by Clive Palmer, Robin Williamson and Mike Heron in Edinburgh in 1966. The band built a considerable following, especially in the British counterculture, notably with their albums The 5000 Spirits or the Layers of the Onion, The Hangman's Beautiful Daughter, and Wee Tam and the Big Huge. They became pioneers in psychedelic folk and, through integrating a wide variety of traditional music forms and instruments, in the development of world music. Following Palmer's early departure, Williamson and Heron performed as a duo, later augmented by other musicians. The band split up in 1974. They reformed in 1999 and continued to perform with changing lineups until 2006.
  • John Phillips
    43

    As a founding member of The Mamas & The Papas, John Phillips played an instrumental role in shaping the sound of 1960s folk music. With classics like "California Dreamin'" and "Monday, Monday," Phillips demonstrated his incredible songwriting skills while contributing to the unique harmonies that defined the group's sound. His contributions have left a lasting impact on the genre, inspiring generations of folk artists to come.

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  • Mason Williams
    44
    Mason Douglas Williams (born August 24, 1938) is an American classical guitarist, composer, writer, comedian, and poet, best known for his 1968 instrumental "Classical Gas" and for his work as a comedy writer on The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour, The Glen Campbell Goodtime Hour, and Saturday Night Live.
  • Rickie Lee Jones
    45

    With her distinctive voice and genre-bending approach to songwriting, Rickie Lee Jones has left a lasting impact on the world of folk music since the late 1970s. Tracks like "Chuck E.'s in Love" and "The Last Chance Texaco" showcase her unique ability to create vivid narratives that draw listeners in. Jones' immense talent and innovative spirit continue to inspire new generations of folk artists.

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  • Joan Armatrading
    46

    With a career spanning over four decades, Joan Armatrading has been an influential force within the folk music scene for her compelling storytelling and powerful vocals. Her extensive catalog includes memorable tracks such as "Love and Affection" and "Me Myself I," which showcase her ability to captivate audiences through heartfelt lyrics and emotive melodies. Armatrading's contributions have made a lasting impact on the world of folk music.

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  • Andrew Bird
    47

    Andrew Bird

    38 votes
    Andrew Wegman Bird (born July 11, 1973) is an American indie rock multi-instrumentalist, singer, and songwriter. Since 1996, he has released 15 studio albums, as well as several live albums and EPs, spanning various genres including swing music, indie rock, and folk music. He is primarily known for his unique style of violin playing, accompanied by loop and effect pedals, whistling, and voice. In the '90s, he appeared in several jazz ensembles, including Squirrel Nut Zippers and Kevin O'Donnell's Quality Six, before starting Andrew Bird's Bowl of Fire, which released three albums between 1998 and 2001. Weather Systems (2003) was his first solo album upon leaving the Bowl of Fire to feature his use of loop-pedal, and to have a stronger emphasis on folk and indie music. Beyond his own record releases, he has collaborated with various artists, including The Handsome Family, Dosh, and Nora O'Connor. He appeared as "Dr. Stringz" in a 2007 episode of Jack's Big Music Show, wrote and performed "The Whistling Caruso" for The Muppets movie in 2011, and composed the score for the television series Baskets, released in 2016. He has also appeared on a TED Talk in 2010 performing his music.
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  • Maria Muldaur
    48
    Maria Muldaur (born September 12, 1943) is an American folk and blues singer who was part of the American folk music revival in the early 1960s. She recorded the 1973 hit song "Midnight at the Oasis" and continues to record albums in the folk traditions.She was the wife of musician Geoff Muldaur and is the mother of singer-songwriter Jenni Muldaur.
  • Ian Tyson
    49

    Ian Tyson

    72 votes

    Canadian singer-songwriter Ian Tyson has been captivating audiences with his storytelling abilities and evocative lyrics since the 1960s. Best known for his songs "Four Strong Winds" and "Someday Soon," Tyson's contributions to the world of folk music have left a lasting impact. His ability to create timeless narratives that resonate with listeners continues to make him an influential figure in the genre.

  • Loudon Wainwright III
    50

    A versatile singer-songwriter, actor, and humorist, Loudon Wainwright III has been an influential figure in the folk world for over five decades. With his confessional songwriting style and unique ability to blend humor with poignant emotion, Wainwright has captivated audiences through songs like "Dead Skunk" and "Daughter." His impact on the folk genre is undeniable, as he explores the many facets of the human experience through his music.

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  • Los Lobos
    51

    Los Lobos

    73 votes

    Formed in 1973, Los Lobos has been an influential act in the world of folk music due to their innovative fusion of traditional Mexican and American styles. With their eclectic mix of rock, blues, Tex-Mex, and traditional Spanish folk music, songs like "La Bamba" and "Will the Wolf Survive?" showcase the band's unique sound and ability to bring diverse cultural influences together. Los Lobos continues to captivate audiences and contribute to the ever-evolving world of folk music.

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  • John Fahey
    52

    John Fahey

    65 votes
    John Aloysius Fahey was an American fingerstyle guitarist and composer who played the steel-string acoustic guitar as a solo instrument. His style has been greatly influential and has been described as the foundation of American Primitivism, a term borrowed from painting and referring mainly to the self-taught nature of the music and its minimalist style. Fahey borrowed from the folk and blues traditions in American roots music, having compiled many forgotten early recordings in these genres. He would later incorporate classical, Portuguese, Brazilian, and Indian music into his œuvre. He spent many of his later years in poverty and poor health, but enjoyed a minor career resurgence with a turn towards the more explicitly avant-garde, and created a series of abstract paintings during the last years of his life. He died in 2001 from complications from heart surgery. In 2003, he was ranked 35th in the Rolling Stone "The 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time" list.
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  • Lindisfarne
    53

    Lindisfarne

    51 votes

    Hailing from Newcastle Upon Tyne in England, Lindisfarne was a folk-rock band that formed in 1969 and went on to become an influential figure in the British folk scene. Their energetic performances and memorable melodies resonated with fans, making them a beloved fixture in the world of folk music. Songs like "Meet Me on the Corner" and "Lady Eleanor" remain enduring favorites, solidifying Lindisfarne's place as an influential act within the genre.

  • Iron & Wine
    54

    Iron & Wine

    41 votes
    Samuel "Sam" Ervin Beam (born July 26, 1974), better known by his stage name Iron & Wine, is an American singer-songwriter. He has released six studio albums, several EPs and singles, as well as a few download-only releases, which include a live album (a recording of his 2005 Bonnaroo performance). He occasionally tours with a full band. Beam was raised in South Carolina before moving to Virginia and then Florida to attend school. He now resides in Durham, North Carolina. The name Iron & Wine is taken from a dietary supplement named "Beef, Iron & Wine" that he found in a general store while shooting a film.
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  • Mumford & Sons
    55

    Since their formation in 2007, Mumford & Sons have made an indelible mark on the world of folk music with their rousing melodies and emotional lyricism. By incorporating elements of bluegrass, rock, and country into their distinct sound, they have introduced millions of listeners to a newer form of folk music. With hits like "Little Lion Man" and "I Will Wait," Mumford & Sons continue to keep the spirit of folk music alive for modern audiences.

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  • Lobo
    56

    Lobo

    76 votes

    Born as Roland Kent LaVoie, Lobo is an American singer-songwriter who found success in the 1970s with a string of soft-rock hits that featured elements of folk music. His storytelling prowess is showcased on tracks like "Me and You and a Dog Named Boo" and "I'd Love You to Want Me." With his soothing vocals and heartwarming melodies, Lobo continues to be remembered as a treasured figure in the world of folk music.

  • Sinéad O'Connor
    57
    Born in Glenageary, County Dublin, Ireland, Sinéad O'Connor was an internationally acclaimed singer-songwriter known for her distinctive voice and powerful lyrics. She began her musical journey at a young age and later broke into the mainstream music scene with her debut album, The Lion and the Cobra, in 1987. This album marked the beginning of a career that spans decades and includes multiple genres such as pop, rock, folk, and world music. O'Connor's second album, I Do Not Want What I Haven't Got, established her as a global star. The single "Nothing Compares 2 U," a cover of Prince's song, topped charts around the world. While she was recognized for her musical talent, O'Connor also stayed in the public eye for her outspoken nature. Throughout her career, she used her platform to express strong views on subjects like religion, women's rights, and child abuse, which often sparked controversy. Despite her contentious public image, O'Connor's musical talent has never been in doubt. Her work received several accolades, including a Grammy Award for Best Alternative Music Performance for "I Do Not Want What I Haven't Got." She also consistently released new music and showed remarkable versatility by exploring various genres. Sinéad O'Connor's career serves as a testament to her unwavering dedication to her craft and her fearless expression of individuality.
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  • Angel Olsen
    58

    Angel Olsen

    33 votes
    Angel Olsen is an American folk and indie rock singer and guitarist who was raised in St. Louis, Missouri and currently lives in Asheville, North Carolina. She has recorded and toured as a backing singer with Bonnie "Prince" Billy and the Cairo Gang. After releasing her first EP, Strange Cacti, and a debut album, Half Way Home, on Bathetic Records, Olsen signed with Jagjaguwar ahead of her first full-band record, Burn Your Fire For No Witness, which was released on 17 February 2014. In addition to her work with Bonnie "Prince" Billy and The Cairo Gang, Olsen has collaborated with a number of other notable figures of American indie rock, including Tim Kinsella of Cap'n Jazz and LeRoy Bach of Wilco. Her collaboration with Kinsella and Bach, as well as with Chicago poet Marvin Tate, resulted in the album "Tim Kinsella sings the songs of Marvin Tate by LeRoy Bach featuring Angel Olsen," which the group released on Indianapolis label Joyful Noise Recordings on December 3, 2013.
  • Michelle Shocked
    59
    Michelle Shocked (born Karen Michelle Johnston; February 24, 1962) is an American singer-songwriter.
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  • Lori McKenna
    60

    Lori McKenna

    51 votes
    Lori McKenna (née Giroux; born December 22, 1968) is an American folk, Americana, and country music singer, songwriter, and performer. In 2016, she was nominated for the Grammy Award for Song of the Year and won Best Country Song for co-writing the hit single "Girl Crush" performed by Little Big Town. In 2017, she again won Best Country Song at the 59th Annual Grammy Awards for writing "Humble and Kind" performed by Tim McGraw. McKenna along with Lady Gaga, Natalie Hemby and Hillary Lindsey wrote the second single off the soundtrack to the 2018 film, A Star Is Born called "Always Remember Us This Way" and performed backing vocals along with Lindsey and Hemby.