Folk revival

Definition

Folk revival refers to the renewed interest in traditional folk music and culture that began in the mid-20th century, particularly during the 1940s to the 1960s. This movement aimed to reconnect contemporary audiences with their cultural roots and often highlighted social issues through music, leading to significant changes in society's perspectives. The folk revival was instrumental in bringing folk traditions into mainstream music and fostering a sense of identity among various communities.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The folk revival was significantly influenced by artists like Woody Guthrie and Pete Seeger, who used their music to address social justice issues, including labor rights and civil rights.
2. The movement gained momentum at folk festivals, such as the Newport Folk Festival, which showcased both traditional and contemporary folk artists.
3. Folk music became a voice for the counterculture movement of the 1960s, intertwining with themes of peace, love, and social change.
4. Record labels began to invest in folk artists during this time, leading to a resurgence of traditional folk instruments and sounds in popular music.
5. The revival helped preserve many regional folk traditions that might have otherwise been lost, encouraging younger generations to engage with their musical heritage.

Review Questions

• How did the folk revival contribute to social change in mid-20th century America?
  • The folk revival played a crucial role in social change by using music as a platform for raising awareness about important issues like civil rights and labor rights. Artists like Woody Guthrie and Joan Baez connected traditional folk music with contemporary struggles, inspiring audiences to become more politically active. Through concerts and festivals, folk music became a rallying point for movements advocating for equality and justice.
• In what ways did the folk revival influence mainstream music during the 1960s?
  • The folk revival significantly influenced mainstream music by introducing traditional sounds, instruments, and themes into popular genres. Artists like Bob Dylan blended folk elements with rock, expanding the audience for both styles. This crossover helped to legitimize folk music in popular culture and inspired countless musicians to explore their own cultural roots, leading to a wider acceptance of diverse musical forms.
• Evaluate the impact of festivals on the success of the folk revival movement and its lasting legacy.
  • Festivals like the Newport Folk Festival were pivotal in promoting the folk revival movement by bringing together established artists and emerging talents. These events created a communal space where fans could connect with folk traditions and engage with social issues through music. The lasting legacy of these festivals continues today, as they not only celebrate traditional music but also foster community activism and cultural exchange, keeping the spirit of the folk revival alive.

Related terms

American Folk Music: A genre of music that draws on traditional songs and styles, often associated with the common people and rural communities, serving as a significant influence during the folk revival.

Protest Music: Songs that convey messages of social and political protest, often emerging from the folk revival as artists used their music to advocate for change during the civil rights and anti-war movements.

Ballad: A type of narrative song that tells a story, often passed down orally through generations, playing a crucial role in the folk tradition and its revival.