As Matthew McConaughey famously remarked in the inaugural season of True Detective, time is a flat circle—a sentiment that resonates powerfully today, especially with the resurgence of styles and trends from the 1920s. A notable example is the significant revival of folk music, which has surged in popularity over the last decade.
This revival extends beyond mere nostalgia for traditional folk sounds. The acclaim of the Bob Dylan biopic, A Complete Unknown, illustrates the audience’s desire for classic music. New artists are emerging, blending contemporary sounds with folk elements, redefining the genre. Established acts like the Lumineers and Taylor Swift’s folk-infused projects highlight folk’s enduring relevance, showcasing its capacity to evolve while retaining its roots.
1. Noah Kahan
Active From 2017 to Present
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YJFc626Itug
Canadian folk-pop artist Noah Kahan made waves with his debut single “Hurt Somebody”in 2017 and has maintained his momentum with deeply personal music. His 2022 album, Stick Season, earned him a Grammy nomination for Best New Artist. The album’s expanded reissue, Stick Season (Forever), features collaborations with notable artists like Kacey Musgraves and Hozier, demonstrating folk’s contemporary appeal.
2. The Moldy Peaches
Active From 1994 to 2004, 2007 to 2008, 2022 to Present
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_cQh1BOJXJA
The Moldy Peaches, the influential anti-folk duo of Kimya Dawson and Adam Green, left an indelible mark on the music scene in the late ’90s and early 2000s, particularly recognized for their songs featured in the 2007 film Juno. After a hiatus, they returned in 2023, reviving their distinctive quirky and non-conformist musical style.
3. Paris Paloma
Active From 2020 – Present
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4hyaYHqUSiY
At just 23 years old, Paris Paloma emerged in 2023 with “Labour,”a compelling anthem addressing global issues of sexism and domestic labor inequities, garnering over a million Spotify streams within 24 hours of its release. Her debut album, titled Cacophony, released by the end of 2024, features a reimagined version of “Labour”and contributes to the soundtrack of The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim.
4. Blackbird Raum
Active From 2004 to 2016, 2019 to Present
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sAFPf_xyUeQ
Blackbird Raum embraces the raw essence of anarcho-folk, captivating audiences with their untraditional instrumentation ranging from washboards to musical saws. Their 2023 EP, come into your power, signals a return to form after a hiatus, reaffirming their commitment to a powerful and eco-conscious musical narrative.
5. Hozier
Active From 2013 to Present
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AXGG0jzEAig
Hozier stands as a significant figure in modern folk music, constantly evolving his sound from classic delta blues influences to cinematic soundscapes in albums like Unreal Unearth. His music beautifully reflects his Irish heritage, reminding listeners that the country’s musical tradition is rich and multifaceted.
6. The Amazing Devil
Active From 2015 to Present
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4h-ogX4GfL8
After a brief hiatus due to Joey Batey’s role in Netflix’s The Witcher, The Amazing Devil is poised to return with music characterized as “sad people can listen to at train stations.” Their theatrical and dynamic approach to folk continues to capture hearts, and the anticipation for their next project grows.
7. Brandi Carlile
Active From 2005 to Present
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i69w56ulpLA
2023 marks the 20th anniversary of Brandi Carlile’s debut album, coinciding with the release of her collaborative project with Elton John, Who Believes in Angels? Over her career, Carlile has accrued 11 Grammy Awards, emphasizing her influence as a queer icon in folk music while continually pushing creative boundaries.
8. Poor Man’s Poison
Active From 2009 to 2014, 2019 to Present
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HHPZynI6pwQ
Poor Man’s Poison first gained attention in 2009, releasing several well-received albums. After a hiatus, their comeback in 2019 introduced digital singles including the viral “Hell’s Comin’ With Me,”showcasing their knack for hard-hitting working-class anthems, along with a new spin-off project, Dr. Villain.
9. Phoebe Bridgers
Active From 2014 to Present
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RtOYYp010lA
With her unique melodic style and dry wit, Phoebe Bridgers has risen as a prominent figure in the indie scene. Her recent collaborations with boygenius highlight her versatility, suggesting that her next solo endeavor could emerge as a major topic at the Grammy Awards in 2025.
10. The Dead South
Active From 2012 to Present
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jqTY8rGILfs
In a remarkable turn, The Dead South, known for their punk-inspired bluegrass, made history by headlining the Grand Ole Opry in November 2024. Their evolution from a self-released EP to a significant presence in country music’s forefront exemplifies their dynamic journey.
11. Amythyst Kiah
Active From 2010 to Present
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pdSPU3xLAtI
Amythyst Kiah has gained recognition for her powerful vocals, even catching the attention of electronic music artist Moby for a re-recording of his hit “Natural Blues.”Despite some oversights during awards season, Kiah’s talent continues to reshape folk and roots music.