by Nick Towers

Created on: June 22, 2010

1. Bob Dylan- If folk music were to have one figure represent it, it would be Bob Dylan. A symbol of the social unrest going on in the 60’s, Dylan made some of the greatest protest songs of the era, such as “Blowin’ In The Wind”, and “The Times They Are a-Changin’.” Before Bob Dylan, folk music only had a small following. His talent allowed for it to expand in its appeal, making it one of the most popular genres of music ever.

2. Woody Guthrie – Gaining most of his inspiration from his experiences as a migrant worker during the Dust Bowl, Guthrie was the man who first used folk music as a means to express social protest.  All folk musicians who came to follow owe some sort of gratitude to Woody Guthrie. He served as a mentor to future greats Bob Dylan, and Rambin’ Jack Elliott.

3. Pete Seeger- The musician most involved in the American folk music revival, Seeger can be seen as the reason why folk music gained popularity in the United States in the first place.  Seeger used folk music as a means to express his political, and social beliefs, and encouraged others to do so as well. Throughout his seventy year career, he has also been a voracious social activist. 

4. Phil Ochs – One of the faces of the counterculture age of the 1960’s, Phil Ochs was one of the most radical folk musicians ever seen.  He was able to make protest songs through a mix of brilliant insight, dark humor, and razor sharp wit. He encouraged those who followed him, to push the boundaries of good taste with their lyrics.

5. Neil Young- Neil Young was a member of two of the most well-regarded bands of the era; Buffalo Springfield, and Crosby, Stills, and Nash. This alone would be enough to make him one of the greatest folk musicians ever, but his solo work is also musically vital. Neil Young has written many politically fueled songs, such as ”Ohio”, (detailing the Kent State Massacre) and “Let’s Impeach The President.” (regarding President George W. Bush, and the Iraq War.)

6. Joan Baez- Along with many other musicians of the time, Joan Baez was heavily involved with the counterculture movement of the sixties.  Baez made many many older folk songs popular again, by covering them. She was also very important in bringing Bob Dylan to fame.

7. Leadbelly- Leadbelly has served as an influence to many musicians for more than seventy years.  Through his blend of folk with

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