MR NEWS FOLK MUSIC RADIO

Folk Music in 2025: Tradition Reimagined Amid a Modern Renaissance

Folk music is experiencing a vibrant resurgence in 2025, as artists and audiences alike rediscover the genre’s power to connect the past with the present. From major festivals and international awards to a new wave of politically engaged performers, folk is once again at the heart of musical and social conversations.

A Revival Rooted in Relevance

Across the United States and the United Kingdom, folk musicians are breathing new life into centuries-old songs, using them as vehicles for contemporary commentary. In Britain, groups like the Shovel Dance Collective and Goblin Band are gaining recognition by reinterpreting traditional ballads to address issues such as prison abolition, trans rights, and the gig economy. Their performances frame historic narratives as reflections of modern struggles, drawing clear lines between the concerns of past generations and those of today. Many in this scene identify as queer or transgender, giving new resonance to classic lyrics and expanding the genre’s inclusivity.

Festivals and Honors Spotlight the Genre

The festival circuit is thriving, with events like the South Florida Folk & Acoustic Music Festival and the Evanston Folk Festival drawing top national and local talent. These gatherings not only showcase live performances but also include workshops, song swaps, and discussions on folk’s history and cultural impact. Notable names gracing festival stages this year include Sarah Lee Guthrie—granddaughter of Woody Guthrie—and Rosanne Cash, who will be featured in panel discussions about women’s contributions to folk music.

The 2025 International Folk Music Awards further highlighted the genre’s enduring influence, honoring legends like the Indigo Girls and Crys Matthews, and celebrating a new generation of storytellers.

Innovation and Technology Shape the Sound

Folk music’s evolution is also being shaped by technology. Artists are increasingly embracing AI as a creative partner, using it to generate melodies, assist with songwriting, and enhance traditional sounds. Rather than replacing the human touch, AI is helping musicians expand their creative possibilities, blending classic instrumentation with modern production techniques. This coexistence of technology and tradition is ensuring that folk music remains both authentic and innovative.

A Flourishing Indie Folk Scene

The indie folk movement continues to thrive, with artists such as Adrienne Lenker, Big Thief, Waxahatchee, Bonny Light Horseman, and Gregory Alan Isakov leading the way. These musicians are praised for their emotionally evocative songwriting and ability to craft intimate, atmospheric soundscapes that resonate with listeners seeking authenticity and connection.

Looking Ahead

As 2025 unfolds, folk music stands at a crossroads of tradition and transformation. Whether through the reinterpretation of ancient ballads, the embrace of new technologies, or the celebration of diverse voices, the genre is proving its enduring relevance. Folk’s renaissance is not just a nostalgic return, but a bold step forward—one that ensures its stories, struggles, and songs will continue to echo for generations to come.