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Folk rock
Folk rock is a genre that combines the storytelling traditions and acoustic instrumentation of folk music with the rhythms, amplification and energy of rock music.
Emerging in the mid-1960s, the genre was popularised by artists such as the Byrds and Bob Dylan, whose adoption of electric instruments helped redefine contemporary popular music. Folk rock often features introspective lyrics, close vocal harmonies and melodies rooted in traditional folk while embracing rock’s broader sonic palette.
Throughout the late 1960s and 1970s, artists including Simon & Garfunkel, Fairport Convention, Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young and Joni Mitchell expanded the genre in diverse directions. Folk rock has remained an enduring influence on indie folk, alternative country and contemporary singer-songwriter music.
The one musician who has always remained an inspiration for Lindsey Buckingham
“One of my favourites of all time.”
The musician Bruce Springsteen said truly invented country rock: “Incredible, beautiful, beautiful music”
An innovative musical mind.
The singer who made Carole King want to become a musician: “Be yourself”
“If he can do it, I can do it.”
More About Folk rock
Folk rock is a music genre that blends the lyrical storytelling and acoustic traditions of folk music with the instrumentation and rhythms of rock music.
Folk rock was pioneered in the mid-1960s by artists including the Byrds and Bob Dylan, with important contributions from Simon & Garfunkel, Buffalo Springfield and Fairport Convention.
Folk rock is characterised by acoustic and electric guitars, melodic songwriting, close vocal harmonies and lyrics that often explore personal, social or political themes.