Folk music

“Helplessness Blues” – Fleet Foxes
- This song sounds less simplistic for a folk song, although it is still comprised of simply guitar and vocals for the most part. The way Fleet Foxes layers the two makes the song feel impactful, like the sort of song that would play at an important part of a movie. The main chord progressions are common ones, giving this song a sort of familiarity that draws the listener in, feeling as though they know it, and the beautiful musicality keeps them listening.
“Chicago” – Sufjan Stevens
- While all of Sufjan Stevens’ music is beautiful in both composition and performance, this is probably his most well-known and arguably his best song. The lyrics are simple but the song is less about the lyrics and more about the music itself; it’s the sort of song that would be played in the background during a movie, more about feeling than about listening. It has incredibly calming vibes, characterized by Sufjan Steven’s relaxing voice and the minimal, simplistic instrumentation. This is the perfect song to play while driving around this break, as it just screams “spring break” with its beautiful buildups and serenity, giving the listener a feeling of rejuvenation and simple happiness.
“Have We Met Before” – Tom Rosenthal
- The simplicity of this song is possibly its best feature, highlighting Tom Rosenthal’s voice with the accompaniment of simple piano chords that progress perfectly with the lyrics, giving this song a very peaceful but impactful vibe.
“Broadripple is Burning” – Margot and the Nuclear So & So’s
- Margot and the Nuclear So & So’s are all about strangeness in their often symbolic and nonsensical lyricism and creative use of instruments and musicality to create very surreal songs. This one is no exception; although it primarily uses guitar, the creative backup vocals and background instruments coupled with the simplicity of the melody creates a catchy, eerie, beautiful song.
“Ophelia” – The Lumineers
- Although this song borders between pop and folk, its catchiness and beautiful composition typical of the Lumineers makes it a great listen. Using tambourine instead of the typical drums behind great vocals and gorgeous piano, this song is a great one to listen to whenever, whether while relaxing, driving, or going out with friends.

Folk music

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