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.

Foreign folk songs. Folk masterpieces and recommended popular tracks (51–60)

Like a Rolling StoneBob Dylan

Bob Dylan – Like a Rolling Stone (Official Audio)
Like a Rolling StoneBob Dylan

Starting with the warm timbre of an acoustic guitar and gradually adding electric guitar and organ, the sound seems to symbolize a turning point in the times.

Released in 1965, this song vividly reflects the shift in the music scene from folk to rock.

Its length of over six minutes was unusual for the era, making it an innovative work that upended the norms of pop music.

Bob Dylan’s youthful, sardonic voice sharply questions social contradictions and the meaning of individual existence.

Hailing from Minnesota in the United States, Dylan left an indelible mark on music history with this track and has continued to exert a profound influence on subsequent generations of artists.

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.

Fire & RainJames Taylor

James Taylor – “Fire & Rain”
Fire & RainJames Taylor

James Taylor is a quintessential American singer-songwriter who helped lead the singer-songwriter boom of the 1970s.

His gentle voice and the sound of his acoustic guitar have continued to soothe the hearts of many.

Released in February 1970, this song was written based on Taylor’s personal experiences, chronicling hardships in his life such as a friend’s suicide and his struggle with drug dependency.

Its calm melody and deeply moving lyrics strike a chord with listeners and evoke empathy.

Reaching No.

3 on the Billboard Hot 100, it became a turning point in Taylor’s career.

It’s a profoundly resonant masterpiece—highly recommended for listening alone on a quiet night.

Scarborough fairMartin Carthy

A traditional English folk ballad.

It has been recorded by many artists, including Andy Williams and Sergio Mendes & Brasil ’66.

This version is by Martin Carthy, a British folk singer and guitarist.

Western folk songs. Folk masterpieces and recommended popular songs (61–70)

Harvest MoonNeil Young

Neil Young – Harvest Moon [Official Music Video]
Harvest MoonNeil Young

In the fall of 1992, Canadian legendary musician Neil Young released a warm, heartfelt song that expresses his love for his longtime wife.

The gentle tones of the acoustic guitar and Young’s distinctive high-register vocals resonate soothingly, offering comfort to listeners.

Carrying on the spirit of the classic album Harvest, this track has become one of the most beloved songs in Young’s career.

It’s a folk masterpiece that many people enjoy listening to on long autumn nights.

It’s the perfect song for anyone seeking heartwarming music or wanting to sink into a romantic mood.

Broken StonesPaul Weller

Paul Weller – Broken Stones (Official Video)
Broken StonesPaul Weller

With simple lyrics and a melody that resonates deeply, this song portrays life’s journey and the renewal found along the way.

Released in September 1995, it appears on Paul Weller’s third solo album, Stanley Road, and reached number 20 on the UK Singles Chart.

Weller, from the UK, is a highly accomplished artist who found success as a solo performer after his work with The Jam and The Style Council.

Inspired by a conversation with his son by the seaside, the piece warmly depicts people striving to regain wholeness, like “broken stones.” It’s a perfect track for those seeking a moment of quiet introspection.

Tom DooleyThe Kingston Trio

The Kingston Trio – Tom Dooley – 1958
Tom DooleyThe Kingston Trio

A traditional folk track that has been recorded by many artists.

This version by the American folk and pop music group The Kingston Trio is the most famous, reaching No.

1 on the charts in five countries.