Folk Music Resurgence Fuels Social-Political Commentary

Folk music is experiencing a resurgence in the U.S., driven by social media and renewed interest in its capacity for social and political commentary. The genre's accessibility—requiring only a voice and a guitar—has attracted new artists and younger generations seeking to express their views during times of political and social upheaval. Modern musicians integrate digital tools and social platforms like TikTok and YouTube to reach broader audiences and build fan bases, making folk more relevant and widespread than in past decades. Influential contemporary artists such as Hozier and Bon Iver have helped bring folk into the mainstream, further fueling its revival. Music scholars note that this democratization of music distribution has empowered voices that might otherwise go unheard, marking a significant shift in how folk music shapes public discourse. As a result, folk continues to evolve while remaining a powerful medium for activism and commentary.