The Best Indie Folk Bands & Artists

Coley Reed
Updated May 1, 2024 777.6K views 81 items
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Over 7.9K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Indie Folk Bands & Artists

For years, folk music was not popular. However, during the 2000s, the subgenre indie folk began gradually building a captive audience among music listeners. Armed with an acoustic guitar and poignant lyrics, indie folk bands seemed to rise in tandem with American hipsters' love of beards and artisan goods, while still making some of the best folk songs and best indie songs of 2018. Indie folk music started to show up on college radio before ultimately exploding around the 2010s with groups like Fleet Foxes and Bon Iver going on to become national phenomenons. Since then, these groups have managed to sell out theaters, arenas and even amphitheatres on the strength of music that would have been dismissed as too niche as recently as 10 years prior. 

So, that begs the question, who are the best indie folk bands? Well, there's no easy answer to that. For starters, if you want to measure indie folk artists based solely on popularity, then London's Mumford & Sons has to be near the top of your list. Their second record, Babel, won multiple Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year back in 2013. The same goes for famous folk singer Bon Iver, who took home a Grammy for Best New Artist in 2012. However, Iceland's Of Monsters and Men,  Los Angeles' Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros, and female folk singer Feist would argue that the strength of their extremely catchy songs and the constant radio play would land them as some of the best indie folk artists.

The point of this list should be to answer the questions "who are the best indie folk bands of all time?" and "who is the greatest indie folk musician ever?" There's no right or wrong answer, but ultimately, these good indie folk artists' fate is in your hands, so choose wisely! 

  • The Lumineers
    1

    The Lumineers

    1,919 votes

    This Denver-based trio has built a reputation for creating infectious melodies and heartfelt lyrics that resonate with fans around the world. Their foot-stomping rhythms and sing-along choruses have catapulted them into mainstream success, garnering multiple Grammy nominations and millions of album sales. By blending elements of Americana, rock, and pop with their indie roots, they've carved out a unique niche in the modern folk landscape and influenced countless up-and-coming artists.

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  • Bon Iver
    2

    Bon Iver

    2,013 votes

    Born out of a secluded Wisconsin cabin, this project has evolved into one of the most innovative and influential forces in contemporary indie folk music. The brainchild of singer-songwriter Justin Vernon, their experimental approach to songwriting incorporates lush instrumentation, layered vocals, and electronic elements to create a distinctive sonic palette. With multiple Grammy Awards under their belt and a devoted fan base spanning generations, they continue to challenge the conventions of traditional folk music.

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    NEW TO THE LIST
    • NEW
      #52
      Laura Marling
      69 votes
    • NEW
      #37
      Okkervil River
      4 votes
  • Lord Huron
    3

    Lord Huron

    817 votes

    Hailing from Michigan, this group captivates listeners with their atmospheric soundscapes and haunting narratives, painting vivid pictures of love, loss, and the passage of time. Their rich harmonies and intricate arrangements showcase their technical prowess, while their steady rise in popularity has earned them numerous TV appearances and festival slots. As pioneers in the indie folk scene, they've inspired a new generation of musicians to push the boundaries of traditional folk music.

  • Of Monsters and Men
    4

    This Icelandic sextet burst onto the international scene with their energetic live performances and anthemic blend of indie rock and folk influences. Their soaring melodies are punctuated by powerful male-female vocal harmonies, while their evocative storytelling captures the imagination of listeners across the globe. As ambassadors for Iceland's thriving music scene, they've paved the way for other emerging artists to follow in their footsteps.

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  • Gregory Alan Isakov
    5

    With his poetic lyrics and delicate fingerpicking, this South African-born singer-songwriter has earned a loyal following for his introspective brand of indie folk. His intimate live shows and dedication to his craft have garnered critical acclaim and commercial success, including appearances on popular television series and collaborations with notable artists. As a true troubadour, he continues to inspire a new generation of songwriters with his timeless stories and heartfelt performances.

  • Fleet Foxes
    6

    Fleet Foxes

    1,767 votes

    This Seattle-based ensemble is renowned for their intricate arrangements, lush harmonies, and evocative lyrics that transport listeners to another time and place. Their unique blend of traditional folk, baroque pop, and psychedelic influences has earned them widespread critical acclaim and legions of devoted fans. As one of the most revered indie acts of their generation, they've paved the way for countless artists to explore the boundaries between genres.

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  • Vance Joy
    7

    Vance Joy

    995 votes

    This Australian singer-songwriter has charmed audiences worldwide with his catchy melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and signature ukulele-infused sound. His meteoric rise to fame has seen him tour alongside some of music's biggest names, while his debut album achieved multi-platinum status in several countries. As one of the most successful indie folk artists of recent years, he's become a role model for aspiring musicians looking to make their mark on the global stage.

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  • The Head and the Heart
    8

    Formed in Seattle, this six-piece band has built a loyal following with their infectious blend of indie rock and folk influences, characterized by soaring vocal harmonies and foot-stomping rhythms. Their relentless touring schedule and grassroots approach to building an audience have earned them widespread critical acclaim and commercial success. As stalwarts of the modern indie folk scene, they continue to inspire a new generation of musicians with their authentic sound and DIY ethos.

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  • The Avett Brothers
    9

    Hailing from North Carolina, these siblings have been making waves in the indie folk scene with their high-energy live shows and infectious blend of bluegrass, rock, and pop influences. Their heartfelt lyrics and tight-knit harmonies have won them a dedicated fan base that spans generations, while their relentless touring schedule has seen them share stages with some of music's biggest names. As ambassadors for the modern Americana movement, they continue to inspire young musicians to embrace traditional roots music in innovative ways.

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  • First Aid Kit
    10

    First Aid Kit

    527 votes

    This Swedish sister duo has captivated audiences worldwide with their haunting vocal harmonies and poignant lyricism that belies their young age. Drawing inspiration from classic country and folk artists, they've crafted a timeless sound that transcends borders and resonates deeply with fans across the globe. With multiple awards under their belt and collaborations with some of music's most celebrated names, they've emerged as leading voices in the contemporary indie folk scene.

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  • Daughter
    11

    Daughter

    746 votes

    This London-based trio creates ethereal soundscapes that blend elements of post-rock, electronica, and folk to create a hauntingly beautiful sonic experience. Their introspective lyrics and atmospheric arrangements have struck a chord with listeners around the world, earning them critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base. As pioneers in the indie folk genre, they've inspired countless artists to push the boundaries of traditional songwriting and embrace experimentation.

  • Iron & Wine
    12

    Iron & Wine

    1,187 votes

    With his hushed vocals and intricate fingerpicking style, this South Carolina native has become one of the most respected singer-songwriters in the indie folk community. His deeply personal lyrics and sparse arrangements resonate with fans around the world, while his collaborations with notable artists have further cemented his status as a musical icon. As a trailblazer in the genre, he's paved the way for countless up-and-coming artists to explore introspection and vulnerability through their music.

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  • Sufjan Stevens
    13

    This Michigan-born multi-instrumentalist is celebrated for his ambitious concept albums that span genres from baroque pop to electronic and indie folk. His deeply personal storytelling and lush orchestrations have earned him critical acclaim and a devoted fan base, while his boundary-pushing approach to songwriting has made him a leading figure in the contemporary indie scene. As a prolific artist who constantly reinvents himself, he serves as an inspiration to musicians seeking to push the limits of traditional folk music.

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  • José González
    14

    This Swedish-Argentinian singer-songwriter is known for his mesmerizing fingerpicking style and introspective lyrics that delve into themes of love, loss, and self-discovery. His minimalist arrangements and soothing vocals have captivated audiences worldwide, earning him commercial success and critical acclaim throughout his career. As a trailblazer in the indie folk genre, he's inspired countless artists to embrace simplicity and vulnerability in their music.

  • The Oh Hellos
    15

    The Oh Hellos

    382 votes

    This brother-sister duo from Texas has enchanted fans with their energetic live shows and anthemic blend of indie rock, folk, and bluegrass influences. Their rich harmonies and evocative storytelling capture the imagination of listeners across the globe, while their DIY approach to recording and touring has endeared them to the indie community. As champions of grassroots music-making, they serve as role models for aspiring artists looking to forge their own path in the industry.

  • Band of Horses
    16

    This South Carolina-based group has been captivating audiences with their blend of indie rock and folk influences since their formation in 2004. With powerful vocal performances, intricate guitar work, and heartfelt lyrics that evoke nostalgia for simpler times, they've carved out a unique niche in the modern indie landscape. As veterans of the scene, they continue to inspire a new generation of musicians with their authentic sound and unwavering dedication to their craft.

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  • Hozier
    17

    Hozier

    1,059 votes

    This Irish singer-songwriter rose to international fame with his haunting blend of blues, soul, and indie folk influences that evoke a sense of timeless spirituality. His powerful vocals and evocative lyricism have captivated fans around the world, earning him multiple awards and chart-topping hits throughout his career. As one of the most successful artists in the genre, he continues to inspire a new generation of musicians with his authentic sound and unwavering passion for storytelling.

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  • Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros
    18

    This eclectic collective of musicians has been enchanting audiences with their energetic live shows, infectious melodies, and uplifting lyrics since their formation in 2007. Their unique blend of folk, rock, gospel, and psychedelic influences has garnered them widespread critical acclaim and a devoted fan base that spans generations. As pioneers in the indie folk scene, they've paved the way for other artists to embrace collaboration and experimentation in their music.

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  • Ben Howard
    19

    Ben Howard

    869 votes

    Hailing from England, this singer-songwriter has built a loyal following with his emotive performances, poetic lyricism, and innovative guitar techniques. His introspective approach to songwriting and dedication to his craft have earned him critical acclaim and commercial success, including multiple chart-topping albums and prestigious award nominations. As an influential figure in the indie folk community, he's inspired countless artists to explore vulnerability and self-expression through their music.

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  • Angus and Julia Stone
    20

    This Australian sibling duo has charmed listeners worldwide with their intimate harmonies, introspective lyrics, and dreamy indie folk soundscapes. Their distinctive voices complement each other beautifully while their candid storytelling resonates deeply with fans across the globe. As leading voices in the contemporary indie folk scene, they've inspired countless other artists to explore themes of love, loss, and self-discovery through their music.

  • /Passenger
    21

    /Passenger

    960 votes

    This English singer-songwriter has earned a dedicated fan base with his emotive performances, poignant lyrics, and signature raspy vocals that set him apart from his peers. His heartfelt storytelling has struck a chord with listeners around the world, propelling him to chart-topping success and multiple award nominations. As one of the most successful indie folk artists of recent years, he serves as a role model for aspiring musicians looking to make their mark on the global stage.

  • The Decemberists
    22

    This Portland-based outfit has captivated fans with their literary-inspired lyrics, intricate arrangements, and theatrical live performances since their formation in 2000. Their unique blend of indie rock, folk, and baroque pop influences has earned them widespread critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base that spans generations. As one of the most respected acts in the indie folk scene, they continue to inspire a new generation of musicians with their imaginative storytelling and genre-defying sound.

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  • Bright Eyes
    23

    Bright Eyes

    644 votes

    This Nebraska-based collective, led by prolific singer-songwriter Conor Oberst, has been at the forefront of the indie folk scene since their formation in the mid-1990s. Known for their deeply personal lyrics and innovative approach to songwriting, they've earned widespread critical acclaim and a devoted fan base that spans generations. As pioneers in the genre, they've paved the way for countless up-and-coming artists to explore introspection and vulnerability through their music.

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  • The Paper Kites
    24

    The Paper Kites

    164 votes

    Hailing from Melbourne, Australia, this quintet has built a loyal following with their ethereal soundscapes, lush harmonies, and introspective lyrics that delve into themes of love, loss, and self-discovery. Their dreamy indie-folk sound has resonated with fans around the world, earning them critical acclaim and commercial success throughout their career. As trailblazers in the genre, they've inspired countless artists to embrace simplicity and vulnerability in their music.

  • Damien Rice
    25

    Damien Rice

    537 votes

    This Irish singer-songwriter has been captivating audiences with his emotive performances, poetic lyricism, and innovative guitar techniques since his debut album in 2002. His deeply personal storytelling and dedication to his craft have earned him critical acclaim and commercial success, including multiple chart-topping albums and prestigious award nominations. As an influential figure in the indie folk community, he's inspired countless artists to explore vulnerability and self-expression through their music.

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  • Beirut
    26

    Beirut

    545 votes

    Formed by multi-instrumentalist Zach Condon in New Mexico, this band has enchanted listeners worldwide with their unique fusion of indie folk, Balkan brass music, and electronic elements. Their distinctive sound has garnered them widespread critical acclaim and a devoted fan base that spans continents. As pioneers in the indie folk scene, they've paved the way for other artists to embrace cross-cultural collaboration and experimentation in their music.

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  • Noah and the Whale
    27

    This English outfit gained international fame with their infectious blend of indie rock, folk, and pop influences that resonated deeply with fans across the globe. Their foot-stomping rhythms and sing-along choruses earned them widespread critical acclaim and commercial success, including multiple chart-topping albums and prestigious award nominations. As pioneers in the indie folk scene, they helped pave the way for countless up-and-coming artists to explore the boundaries between genres.

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  • The Civil Wars
    28

    This Grammy-winning duo enchanted fans with their haunting vocal harmonies, evocative lyricism, and intimate live performances before their split in 2014. Their soulful blend of Americana, folk, and country influences struck a chord with listeners around the world, earning them critical acclaim and commercial success during their brief but impactful career. As trailblazers in the indie folk genre, they continue to inspire countless artists to embrace collaboration and vulnerability through their music.

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  • The Tallest Man on Earth
    29

    This Swedish singer-songwriter is celebrated for his intricate fingerpicking style, raspy vocals, and introspective lyrics that evoke a sense of timeless storytelling. His minimalist arrangements and heartfelt performances have captivated audiences around the world, earning him critical acclaim and commercial success throughout his career. As a trailblazer in the indie folk genre, he's inspired countless artists to embrace simplicity and vulnerability in their music.

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  • Radical Face
    30

    Radical Face

    256 votes

    This Florida-based musician, also known as Ben Cooper, has earned a dedicated fan base with his ethereal soundscapes, introspective lyrics, and innovative approach to songwriting that blends electronic elements with traditional folk instrumentation. His deeply personal storytelling and lush arrangements resonate with fans around the world, while his boundary-pushing approach to music-making has made him a leading figure in the contemporary indie scene. As a trailblazer in the genre, he's paved the way for countless up-and-coming artists to explore introspection and vulnerability through their music.