RAG MusicWorld Music
Music of a wonderful world

Foreign folk music. Classic folk masterpieces and recommended popular songs.

What kind of image comes to mind when you hear the term “folk song”? Some of you might think of singer-songwriters performing solo with an acoustic guitar, or perhaps consider it somewhat old-fashioned music.

Originally derived from traditional styles like folk and ethnic music, folk songs have evolved across eras and continue to be loved to this day.

This time, we’ve researched and selected a wide range of folk songs, from classic masterpieces to recent hits! We hope you’ll find a new favorite.

Western folk songs: Classic masterpieces and recommended popular tracks (41–50)

Four Strong WindsIan & Sylvia

A track written in the early 1960s by Canadian singer Ian Tyson and released by the folk duo Ian and Sylvia.

It has been covered by many artists, including Neil Young, Bob Dylan, John Denver, The Kingston Trio, and Johnny Cash.

For What It’s WorthBuffalo Springfield

Buffalo Springfield – For What It’s Worth (Official Audio)
For What It's WorthBuffalo Springfield

As a song that symbolizes 1960s America, this Buffalo Springfield track continues to exude an unfading appeal.

Created by a Canadian-American hybrid band, it was released in December 1966 and became a major hit, reaching No.

7 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Woven from Stephen Stills’s delicate guitar alone and lyrics with profound meaning, it has captured the hearts of many across generations.

Inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2000 and performed at the 2020 Democratic National Convention, its influence extends into the present day.

An eternal classic that evokes the history and evolution of folk music—that is what this song is.

Freight TrainElizabeth Cotten

Elizabeth Cotten is an American blues and folk music singer-songwriter.

This track is included on the 1989 album “Freight Train And Other North Carolina Folk Songs And Tunes.” It is a track that has also been recorded by artists such as Pete Seeger.

Thirsty BootsEric Andersen

Eric Andersen – Thirsty Boots (‘Bout Changes ‘n’ Things )
Thirsty BootsEric Andersen

Eric Andersen is an American folk music singer-songwriter who has been active since 1963.

This track is included on his 1966 album ’Bout Changes ’n’ Things.

It is one of his best-known tracks and has been covered by artists such as Judy Collins.

Time will show the wiserFairport Convention

Fairport Convention “Time will show the wiser (1967)
Time will show the wiserFairport Convention

Hearing the name Fairport Convention is enough to make many people nod in recognition.

The track released on their 1968 debut album, Fairport Convention, was a pioneering fusion of folk and rock.

It’s no exaggeration to say it revolutionized the British folk-rock scene.

This song, which portrays emotions swaying between love and friendship, captivates with its melodious guitar tones and lyrics that resonate deeply.

It’s a quintessential folk song that empathizes with those grappling with dilemmas and inner conflict.

Highly recommended not only for fans of folk music, but also for anyone seeking moving lyrics and beautiful melodies.