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Folk Music
Aiming to capture the essence of human experience through song, folk music blends acoustic sounds with profound lyrics. It often involves expressions of personal journeys, political movements and unfiltered emotion. At hmv, we stock a wide collection of the best folk music albums on CD and vinyl, offering everything from vintage classics to contemporary artists with more of an indie persuasion.
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Ethiopian Musics 1971: Recorded By Ragnar Johnson and Ralph Harrison
Various ArtistsCD Album
Released: 14th August 2026
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History and origins of folk music
Sharing stories and speaking directly to people's hearts has always been central to folk music. The genre has evolved from the early ballads and acoustic tunes of artists like Simon & Garfunkel to more modern, indie folk sounds of groups including Fleet Foxes and The Lumineers.Traditional forms like Celtic and Appalachian folk have influenced contemporary styles, but the genre's role in social movements of the 1960s cemented its place in modern music culture. Woody Guthrie and Peter Seeger used folk music to support workers' rights and racial equality, while Boby Dylan captured the spirit of the anti-Vietnam War movement with "Blowin' in the Wind" and "The Times They Are a-Changin'".
Influences from genres such as blues and country began to be absorbed over the following years, creating a diverse array of modern folk music artists.
Key folk music artists and influential figures
Bob Dylan
As one of the most iconic folk music artists of all time, Dylan's albums, including The Freewheelin' Bob Dylan, are the epitome of the genre. His poetic lyrics and protest songs helped shape the political landscape. He's since been immortalised on the silver screen by Timothee Chalamet in A Complete Unknown.[Explore Bob Dylan]
Joni Mitchell
With an innovative blend of folk and jazz, Mitchell created a distinct sound that set her apart. Blue was the folk music album that established Mitchell as a poetic force.[Explore Joni Mitchell]
Joan Baez
With a career spanning decades, her album Joan Baez remains foundational in the folk movement. It's celebrated for its powerful social messages and melancholic renditions of traditional ballads.Nick Drake
Drake's vintage folk music continues to influence modern artists. His album Pink Moon is revered for its intimate tone and haunting guitar.The modern evolution of folk music
Contemporary folk music artists are blending traditional elements with modern sounds, creating a new and exciting wave that appeals to younger generations.Artists like Mumford & Sons, First Aid Kit and Iron & Wine combine folk with indie rock, Americana and even pop influences to make it more accessible than ever.
Exploring folk music albums and must-have recordings
- Bob Dylan – The Freewheelin' Bob Dylan: This folk music album defined an era, with iconic lyrics that solidified Dylan as one the greatest artists of all time.
- Joan Baez – Joan Baez: Baez's crystalline voice and poignant renditions of traditional folk songs marked the beginning of a highly esteemed career.
- Joni Mitchell – Blue: Widely considered one of the best folk music albums due to its personal content and innovative sound.
- Fairport Convention – Liege & Lief: By fusing traditional English folk with rock and electric instruments, this marked a key turning point for the genre.
Why buy vintage and contemporary folk music albums at hmv?
- Explore a vast range of folk music albums available in both vinyl and CD formats.
- With over 100 years of experience in the music and entertainment industry, we're experts in selecting the best folk music albums to offer.
- Thanks to glowing feedback from our loyal customers, we're proud to have earned an 'Excellent' rating on Trustpilot.
- With Klarna, you can split the cost into three interest-free instalments or pay later in 30 days. Borrowing more than you can afford or paying late may negatively impact your financial status and ability to obtain credit. 18+, UK residents only. Subject to status. T&Cs and late fees apply.
- Our 30-day returns policy makes it simple to send back items you're not entirely happy with.
Shop folk music albums on vinyl and CD today
Browse our collection of the best folk music albums, including special-edition vinyl and CDs. Whether online or in store, we stock everything from timeless acoustic records to modern artists incorporating elements of rock and indie.Head to our help centre if you have any questions or simply send us a message and we'll do all we can to assist you.
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