The Folk Music Resurgence: A Return to Acoustic Roots

In the landscape of music, a genre often heard around campfires and tucked away in vintage record shops is making a surprising comeback. Folk music, previously considered a niche genre primarily for indie enthusiasts and the older generation, is experiencing a revival and garnering attention from a broader audience.

The Rise of Folk in Mainstream Media

Once sidelined in the sphere of mainstream music, folk tunes are now being featured with increasing frequency on radio stations and digital streaming platforms. This newfound popularity begs the question: What has spurred the embrace of folk music in the modern era?

Pandemic Influences and Comfort in Folk

One significant factor is the global pandemic that began in 2020. The ensuing lockdowns led people to seek solace and simplicity, often finding it in the soothing strums and narratives of folk music. Folk's acoustic, comforting nature provided a welcome retreat from the unsettling daily realities.

Social Media and TikTok's Impact

Social media platforms, especially TikTok, have played a pivotal role in folk music's ascent. Unlike the pop genre, where artists frequently hold dual roles as musicians and celebrities, folk music traditionally does not follow this pattern. However, TikTok's ability to highlight artists and share their work with a massive audience has made it easier for folk musicians to gain visibility and recognition.

Artists Paving the Way

Singer-songwriter Noah Kahan exemplifies this trend. With the utilization of TikTok, Kahan's song "Stick Season" and its corresponding album soared to great heights, culminating in Grammy recognition. Kahan’s success, alongside artists like Hozier, underscores the captivating resurgence of folk music.

Indeed, during the pandemic, bands such as The Lumineers and Mumford and Sons were often the soundtrack for many. And while TikTok has its critics, it has undoubtedly been instrumental in introducing listeners to new folk tracks and artists that they may not have discovered otherwise.

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