Folk music is a genre that has been around for centuries, passed down through generations and evolving with time. But what exactly defines folk music? At its core, folk music is the music of the people, created and performed by ordinary individuals rather than professional musicians. It often tells stories of everyday life, culture, and history, and is often accompanied by instruments such as guitars, banjos, and fiddles. But the definition of folk music can be elusive, as it encompasses a wide range of styles and traditions from different cultures and time periods. In this article, we will explore the different definitions and characteristics of folk music, and how it has influenced and been influenced by other genres of music throughout history.
What is Folk Music?
Definition and Origins
Folk music is a genre of music that is characterized by its traditional and often anonymous composition, as well as its association with a particular culture or community. The origins of folk music can be traced back to ancient times, with roots in the oral traditions of various cultures.
One of the key features of folk music is its emphasis on storytelling. Many folk songs tell stories of historical events, myths, and legends, and are often passed down through generations through oral tradition. This storytelling aspect of folk music is closely tied to its origins in oral culture, where the transmission of knowledge and culture was primarily done through speech and song.
Another defining characteristic of folk music is its use of traditional instruments, such as the guitar, banjo, fiddle, and harmonica. These instruments are often associated with specific cultural traditions and are used to create a distinctive sound that is unique to each region or community.
In addition to its storytelling and instrumental elements, folk music is also known for its simple melodies and catchy rhythms. These characteristics make folk music highly accessible and enjoyable for listeners, while also allowing for a great deal of creative expression and variation within the genre.
Overall, the definition and origins of folk music are closely tied to its traditional and community-based nature. It is a genre of music that is deeply rooted in the cultural traditions of a particular region or community, and is characterized by its storytelling, use of traditional instruments, and simple melodies.
Musical Elements of Folk Music
Folk music is a genre that is characterized by its simplicity, authenticity, and close connection to the cultural heritage of a particular community or region. One of the defining features of folk music is its use of traditional musical elements, which often include:
- Melody: The melody of a folk song is typically simple and catchy, often featuring a repetitive structure that is easy to remember and sing along to.
- Harmony: Folk music often features simple harmonies, with chords that are easy to play on traditional instruments such as the guitar or banjo.
- Rhythm: The rhythm of folk music is often based on the natural rhythms of the human voice and body, with an emphasis on the beat of the heart and the rhythm of the foot tapping.
- Lyrics: The lyrics of folk songs often tell stories or describe the experiences of the people who created them, and are often passed down from generation to generation through oral tradition.
- Instruments: Traditional folk instruments include the guitar, banjo, mandolin, fiddle, and harmonica, among others. These instruments are often used to create a lively, upbeat sound that is perfect for dancing and celebrating.
Overall, the musical elements of folk music are designed to create a sense of community and connection, and to celebrate the cultural heritage of a particular region or people. By using simple, traditional musical elements, folk music has the power to bring people together and to create a sense of shared identity and history.
Folk Music and Culture
Cultural Significance
Folk music has long been regarded as an essential component of a nation’s cultural heritage. It is often considered a reflection of the values, beliefs, and customs of a particular society, providing a unique window into the past and the evolution of cultural traditions. This section will delve into the cultural significance of folk music, examining its role in preserving cultural identity, fostering social cohesion, and promoting cultural exchange.
Preserving Cultural Identity
Folk music serves as a repository of a society’s cultural legacy, preserving traditional melodies, lyrics, and musical instruments that have been passed down through generations. These songs often chronicle the lives and experiences of ordinary people, capturing the essence of their cultural identity and providing a sense of continuity with the past. By preserving these musical traditions, folk music helps to maintain a sense of cultural pride and fosters a connection to one’s heritage.
Fostering Social Cohesion
Folk music has historically played a significant role in bringing people together and promoting social cohesion within communities. It has been used as a tool for storytelling, transmitting cultural values, and celebrating shared traditions. In many societies, folk music is an integral part of religious and cultural festivals, bringing people together to sing, dance, and celebrate in a shared experience. By promoting social gatherings and communal singing, folk music fosters a sense of belonging and unity among community members.
Promoting Cultural Exchange
Folk music has also played a vital role in facilitating cultural exchange and understanding between different societies. As folk music traditions have spread across borders, they have often been adapted and transformed to reflect the unique cultural characteristics of the societies in which they are practiced. This process of cultural exchange has led to the development of new musical styles and the creation of hybrid traditions that blend elements from different cultural backgrounds. By promoting cross-cultural dialogue and understanding, folk music has contributed to the development of a shared cultural heritage that transcends national boundaries.
In conclusion, the cultural significance of folk music lies in its ability to preserve cultural identity, foster social cohesion, and promote cultural exchange. As a vital component of a nation’s cultural heritage, folk music continues to play an essential role in shaping and reflecting the values, beliefs, and customs of society.
Transmission of Folk Music
The transmission of folk music refers to the process by which traditional folk songs and music are passed down from generation to generation within a particular culture or community. This transmission process is essential to the survival and continuity of folk music as it allows for the preservation and evolution of traditional melodies, lyrics, and musical styles.
There are various ways in which folk music is transmitted, including:
- Oral tradition: Folk music is often passed down orally through families, communities, and cultural groups. This oral tradition involves the singing and learning of songs by ear, without the use of written music. The performer listens to the song and learns it from a mentor or family member, who in turn learned it from their own mentor or family member.
- Apprenticeship: In some cases, folk music is taught through apprenticeship, where a more experienced musician or singer serves as a mentor to a less experienced musician or singer. The apprentice learns the music by working closely with the mentor, who passes on their knowledge and skills.
- Written tradition: While folk music is often transmitted orally, some traditional songs have been recorded in written form. These written sources, such as songbooks or collections of folk songs, provide a way for the music to be preserved and passed down to future generations.
- Folk clubs and festivals: Folk clubs and festivals provide a platform for folk musicians to perform and share their music with others. These events often attract musicians from different backgrounds and generations, creating opportunities for cross-cultural exchange and the transmission of traditional music.
The transmission of folk music is an essential aspect of preserving and promoting cultural heritage. By understanding the ways in which folk music is transmitted, we can better appreciate the significance of this art form and its role in shaping cultural identity and tradition.
Types of Folk Music
Traditional Folk Music
Traditional folk music refers to the music that has been passed down through generations, often with origins in the rural communities of a particular region or country. This type of folk music is characterized by its close connection to the cultural and historical context from which it emerged. The following are some key aspects of traditional folk music:
- Oral Tradition: Traditional folk music is often transmitted orally, with songs and melodies passed down from one generation to another through singing and storytelling. This oral tradition helps to preserve the cultural heritage of a community and ensures that the music remains authentic and true to its roots.
- Authenticity: Traditional folk music is typically considered to be an authentic reflection of the cultural identity of a particular community. It is often closely tied to local customs, traditions, and beliefs, and serves as a means of preserving the unique cultural heritage of a region.
- Lyrics and Themes: The lyrics of traditional folk music often reflect the everyday lives and experiences of the people who created and passed down the music. Themes such as love, nature, work, and community are common in traditional folk music, and the lyrics often serve as a means of storytelling and conveying cultural values and beliefs.
- Instruments: Traditional folk music is often accompanied by traditional instruments that are native to the region, such as the guitar, banjo, fiddle, and harmonica. These instruments are often chosen for their versatility and ability to create a distinctive sound that is representative of the region’s musical heritage.
- Variations and Adaptations: Traditional folk music is subject to variations and adaptations as it is passed down through generations. As different communities and cultures come into contact with one another, traditional folk music may be influenced by new styles and traditions, leading to the development of new subgenres and variations. However, despite these variations, traditional folk music remains true to its roots and continues to reflect the cultural identity of the community that created it.
Contemporary Folk Music
Contemporary folk music refers to the genre of music that emerged in the 20th century and continues to evolve today. It is characterized by its focus on songwriting and performance, rather than traditional folk music’s emphasis on oral transmission and community-based creation.
Songwriting and Performance
Contemporary folk music is distinguished by its emphasis on songwriting and performance, as opposed to traditional folk music’s focus on oral transmission and community-based creation. This shift towards a more individualistic approach to folk music has led to a greater diversity of styles and themes within the genre.
Singer-Songwriters
One of the most prominent features of contemporary folk music is the rise of the singer-songwriter. These artists create their own songs and perform them alone or with a small band, often incorporating elements of other genres such as rock, pop, and country. Examples of famous singer-songwriters in the folk tradition include Bob Dylan, Joni Mitchell, and James Taylor.
Social Commentary
Another key characteristic of contemporary folk music is its use as a platform for social commentary. Many singer-songwriters use their music to address social and political issues, such as inequality, war, and environmental degradation. This tradition of using folk music as a vehicle for protest and activism can be traced back to the earliest days of the genre, but it remains an important aspect of contemporary folk music.
Roots Revival
In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in traditional folk music, often referred to as a “roots revival.” This movement has seen a renewed focus on the traditional forms of folk music, such as ballads and traditional tunes, as well as a greater appreciation for the cultural heritage of folk music. This revival has also led to a resurgence in the use of traditional instruments, such as the banjo, fiddle, and mandolin, in contemporary folk music.
Electronic Folk
Another trend in contemporary folk music is the incorporation of electronic elements into traditional folk instrumentation. This approach, often referred to as “electronic folk,” blends traditional folk instruments with electronic sounds and production techniques to create a unique sound that is both familiar and new. Examples of electronic folk artists include Bon Iver, The Tallest Man on Earth, and Sufjan Stevens.
Influence on Other Genres
Contemporary folk music has had a significant influence on other genres of popular music, particularly rock and pop. Many of the key figures in the singer-songwriter tradition, such as Bob Dylan and Joni Mitchell, have had a profound impact on the development of these genres. In addition, the focus on songwriting and individual expression in contemporary folk music has influenced the way that other genres approach songwriting and performance.
World Folk Music
World folk music refers to the traditional music of various cultures and ethnic groups from around the world. It encompasses a wide range of styles, instruments, and lyrics that reflect the unique cultural heritage of each region. Some of the most prominent forms of world folk music include:
- Traditional music of Europe: This includes music from countries such as Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and France, which are known for their lively melodies, fast rhythms, and use of traditional instruments like the fiddle, accordion, and bagpipes.
- Music of Africa: African folk music is incredibly diverse, with different regions having their own unique styles and instruments. For example, the music of West Africa is often characterized by the use of drums, while the music of East Africa is known for its complex harmonies and use of stringed instruments.
- Music of Asia: Asian folk music includes a wide range of styles, from the traditional music of Japan, which is characterized by its use of stringed instruments and complex melodies, to the music of India, which often features the sitar and tabla drums.
- Music of the Americas: This includes traditional music from North, Central, and South America, such as the music of Mexico, Brazil, and the United States. American folk music has been influenced by a variety of sources, including European, African, and indigenous cultures.
In addition to these regional forms of folk music, there are also many other subgenres within the broader category of world folk music. These can include music that is specifically associated with a particular cultural or ethnic group, such as Celtic music or Jewish music, as well as music that is inspired by particular historical periods or movements, such as Renaissance music or folk music of the 1960s.
Characteristics of Folk Music
Lyrics and Themes
Folk music is characterized by its lyrics and themes, which often reflect the cultural, social, and political context of the community that produces it. The lyrics of folk music are typically simple and easy to understand, and they often deal with everyday life, love, and struggles.
Some common themes in folk music include:
- Political and social justice: Many folk songs are written as protest songs, addressing issues such as poverty, inequality, and discrimination.
- Love and relationships: Love songs have been a staple of folk music for centuries, with themes ranging from romantic love to family and community bonds.
- Work and labor: Folk music often reflects the realities of work and labor, with songs about farming, mining, and other manual labor.
- Tradition and history: Folk music is often passed down through generations, and many songs are rooted in the cultural and historical traditions of the community.
Overall, the lyrics and themes of folk music provide a window into the experiences and perspectives of the communities that produce it, making it a valuable cultural and historical resource.
Instruments and Accompaniment
Folk music is often characterized by its use of traditional instruments and simple accompaniment. These instruments are typically those that were readily available in the region where the music originated, and are often played in a way that emphasizes their natural sounds and tones.
Traditional Instruments
Some of the most common traditional instruments used in folk music include:
- Acoustic Guitar: The acoustic guitar is perhaps the most widely recognized instrument in folk music. It is often used to provide a rhythmic base for the song, and can also be used to add melodic layers.
- Banjo: The banjo is another instrument that is closely associated with folk music. It is often used to add a lively, upbeat rhythm to the music.
- Mandolin: The mandolin is a stringed instrument that is similar in size and shape to a guitar. It is often used to add a bright, melodic sound to the music.
- Fiddle: The fiddle is a type of violin that is commonly used in folk music. It is often used to add a lively, danceable rhythm to the music.
- Cello: The cello is a large stringed instrument that is often used in folk music to add a rich, mellow sound to the music.
Simple Accompaniment
In addition to the use of traditional instruments, folk music is also characterized by its simple accompaniment. This means that the music is often played with a minimal number of instruments, and the focus is on the melody and lyrics of the song rather than on complex arrangements or production.
One way that this simple accompaniment is achieved is through the use of open chords on the guitar or other instruments. Open chords are chords that are played on the instrument without any of the strings being fretted, resulting in a simple, ringing sound that can provide a solid foundation for the song.
Another way that simple accompaniment is achieved in folk music is through the use of call-and-response patterns. In this type of pattern, one instrument or vocalist plays or sings a phrase, and another instrument or vocalist responds with a different phrase. This creates a dialogue-like effect that can be both engaging and memorable.
Overall, the use of traditional instruments and simple accompaniment is a key characteristic of folk music, and helps to give the music its distinctive sound and feel.
Structure and Form
Folk music is often characterized by its structure and form, which are unique and distinct from other forms of music. The structure of folk music is typically based on oral tradition, and the songs are passed down from generation to generation through word of mouth. This means that the structure of folk music can vary greatly from region to region, and even within the same region, different versions of the same song can exist.
One of the key characteristics of folk music is its use of simple and repetitive melodies, often accompanied by a simple chord progression. These melodies are often designed to be easy to remember and sing along to, making them perfect for oral transmission. The lyrics of folk songs often tell stories or depict scenes from everyday life, and are often written in a poetic or narrative style.
Another characteristic of folk music is its use of traditional instruments, such as the guitar, banjo, fiddle, and harmonica. These instruments are often associated with a particular region or culture, and are used to create a distinctive sound that is representative of that region or culture. The use of traditional instruments is one of the ways in which folk music has been able to maintain its cultural identity and traditions over time.
In addition to its use of traditional instruments, folk music also often incorporates elements of traditional dance and folk customs. Many folk songs are designed to be accompanied by dance, and the rhythm and structure of the music are often designed to facilitate movement and expression. This connection to traditional dance and customs is another way in which folk music has been able to maintain its cultural identity and traditions over time.
Overall, the structure and form of folk music are integral to its identity and traditions. Its use of simple and repetitive melodies, traditional instruments, and connection to traditional dance and customs all contribute to its distinctive sound and cultural significance.
Folk Music and Society
Political and Social Impact
Folk music has long been a source of inspiration and empowerment for political and social movements. It has served as a vehicle for expressing the concerns and aspirations of marginalized communities, and has played a crucial role in the struggle for social justice and human rights.
Roots in Traditional Cultures
Folk music has its roots in traditional cultures, where it is often passed down through generations as an integral part of the community’s cultural heritage. It is characterized by its connection to the land, language, and history of a particular region or people.
Expression of Identity and Culture
Folk music is often used as a means of expressing the unique identity and culture of a community. It serves as a reflection of the community’s values, beliefs, and experiences, and is often used to preserve and celebrate their traditions and heritage.
Protest and Social Change
Folk music has also been a powerful tool for social change and political protest. It has been used to raise awareness about social and political issues, and to mobilize communities around causes such as civil rights, labor rights, and environmental justice.
Influence on Popular Music
Folk music has had a significant influence on popular music, with many artists drawing inspiration from traditional folk music and incorporating its themes and styles into their own music. This has helped to keep folk music alive and relevant, and has ensured that its political and social impact continues to be felt in the wider world of music.
Overall, folk music has played a crucial role in shaping the political and social landscape of many countries, serving as a powerful force for change and a source of inspiration for generations of musicians and activists.
Preservation and Revival of Folk Music
Preserving and reviving folk music is a crucial aspect of its continued existence in society. The preservation of folk music involves the collection, documentation, and archiving of traditional songs and tunes. This is done to ensure that these musical traditions are not lost and can be studied and appreciated by future generations.
One way that folk music is preserved is through field recordings. These are recordings made by scholars, ethnomusicologists, and other researchers who travel to different regions to document the traditional music of a particular culture. Field recordings provide a valuable resource for the study of folk music, as they capture the music as it is being performed in its natural context.
Another way that folk music is preserved is through the work of folklorists. Folklorists are scholars who specialize in the study of traditional culture, including folk music. They work to collect and document the stories, songs, and traditions that make up a culture’s folklore. By documenting and studying folk music, folklorists help to preserve it for future generations.
Reviving folk music involves bringing it back to life and keeping it alive in the present day. This is done through various means, such as concerts, festivals, and recordings. Many folk musicians and performers work to keep traditional music alive by performing it for audiences and sharing it with the wider public.
In addition to performances, there are also efforts to teach folk music to new generations. This is done through workshops, classes, and other educational programs. By teaching folk music to young people, we can help to ensure that these musical traditions continue to be passed down from one generation to the next.
Overall, the preservation and revival of folk music is a crucial aspect of its continued existence in society. By collecting, documenting, and performing traditional music, we can help to ensure that these musical traditions are not lost and can be appreciated by future generations.
Folk Music Around the World
Regional Variations
Folk music is a genre that has been embraced by various cultures around the world, and it has evolved to reflect the unique characteristics of each region. One of the defining features of folk music is its regional variations, which give it a distinctive local flavor. In this section, we will explore the regional variations of folk music and how they contribute to its rich cultural heritage.
Language and Dialect
One of the most significant factors that influence the regional variations of folk music is language and dialect. Folk music often reflects the vernacular of the people who create and perform it, and as a result, it can vary significantly from one region to another. For example, the traditional folk music of Scotland is heavily influenced by Gaelic, the native language of the Scottish people, while the traditional folk music of Wales is heavily influenced by Welsh, the native language of the Welsh people.
Instruments and Style
Another factor that contributes to the regional variations of folk music is the choice of instruments and style. Different regions have their own unique musical traditions, and these traditions are reflected in the instruments and styles of folk music that are used. For example, the traditional folk music of Mexico often features the use of mariachi bands, while the traditional folk music of Japan often features the use of the koto, a traditional Japanese stringed instrument.
Historical and Cultural Influences
Folk music is also influenced by the historical and cultural events that shape the lives of the people in a particular region. For example, the traditional folk music of the American South is heavily influenced by the African-American experience, while the traditional folk music of Ireland is heavily influenced by the country’s rich history of storytelling and mythology.
In conclusion, the regional variations of folk music are a reflection of the unique cultural heritage of each region. From language and dialect to instruments and style, folk music is shaped by the people who create and perform it, and it is a testament to the rich cultural diversity of the world.
Influence of Folk Music on Other Genres
Folk music has had a profound impact on various other genres of music. Many famous musicians and bands have been influenced by folk music, incorporating its unique sounds and styles into their own music. Here are some examples of how folk music has influenced other genres:
Rock Music
Rock music has been heavily influenced by folk music, particularly in the early days of rock and roll. Many early rock and roll songs were based on traditional folk melodies, and many rock musicians have drawn inspiration from folk music to create their own unique sound. For example, the Beatles were heavily influenced by American folk music, and their music incorporates many elements of folk music.
Country Music
Country music is another genre that has been heavily influenced by folk music. The origins of country music can be traced back to the folk music of Europe and America, and many country songs are based on traditional folk melodies. Country music has also been influenced by blues and jazz music, but folk music remains an important part of its sound.
Hip-Hop Music
Hip-hop music has also been influenced by folk music, particularly in the subgenre of folk-hop or indie-hop. This subgenre combines elements of folk music with hip-hop beats and rhymes, creating a unique sound that blends traditional and modern music styles. Artists like Aesop Rock and Sage Francis have been credited with popularizing the folk-hop sound.
Punk Music
Punk music has also been influenced by folk music, particularly in the subgenre of folk punk. This subgenre combines elements of punk rock with folk music, creating a raw and rebellious sound that reflects the punk ethos. Bands like The Clash and The Ramones were influenced by folk music, and their music incorporates many elements of folk music.
In conclusion, folk music has had a significant impact on various other genres of music. Its unique sounds and styles have inspired countless musicians and bands, and its influence can be heard in many different types of music today.
The Enduring Appeal of Folk Music
Folk music has a universal appeal that transcends cultural boundaries and speaks to the human experience. This enduring appeal can be attributed to several factors, including its authenticity, timelessness, and emotional resonance.
- Authenticity: Folk music is often characterized by its raw, unpolished sound, which reflects the cultural traditions and customs of the people who create it. Unlike popular music, which is often manufactured for commercial purposes, folk music is a genuine expression of the human spirit, reflecting the hopes, dreams, and struggles of ordinary people.
- Timelessness: Folk music has been passed down from generation to generation, often changing and evolving along the way. Despite this, the themes and melodies of folk music remain relevant and meaningful to people today, connecting them to their cultural heritage and reminding them of the enduring human experience.
- Emotional Resonance: Folk music has the power to evoke strong emotions in listeners, tapping into deep-seated feelings of nostalgia, longing, and hope. Whether it’s a lively dance tune or a mournful ballad, folk music has the ability to transport listeners to another time and place, allowing them to connect with their own emotions and experiences.
In addition to these factors, the enduring appeal of folk music can also be attributed to its versatility and adaptability. Folk music can be performed in a variety of settings, from intimate solo performances to lively ensemble concerts, and can be adapted to suit different cultural contexts and styles. This versatility has allowed folk music to evolve and thrive over the centuries, remaining a vital and vibrant part of our cultural heritage.
Future of Folk Music
Folk music has a rich and diverse history that spans across different cultures and continents. Despite the changing times, folk music continues to evolve and adapt to the modern world. In this section, we will explore the future of folk music and how it is expected to change in the coming years.
- Digitalization of Folk Music
The rise of technology has led to the digitalization of folk music, making it more accessible to a wider audience. With the internet, people can now easily access and share folk music from different parts of the world. This has led to a renewed interest in folk music, as well as a revival of traditional folk music styles.
- Incorporation of Modern Elements
Folk music is not static and has always been evolving. Today, folk musicians are incorporating modern elements into their music, creating a unique blend of traditional and contemporary styles. This fusion of old and new has given rise to a new form of folk music that is both modern and traditional.
- Collaboration and Exchange of Ideas
Collaboration and exchange of ideas among folk musicians from different cultures is becoming increasingly common. This has led to the creation of new sounds and styles that blend different folk music traditions. This cross-cultural exchange is helping to keep folk music alive and relevant in the modern world.
- Preservation of Folk Music
Despite the changes and evolution of folk music, it is important to preserve its traditional roots. Efforts are being made to document and preserve folk music traditions before they disappear. This includes the documentation of folk music traditions through recordings, books, and other media.
In conclusion, the future of folk music looks bright, with new and innovative styles emerging. However, it is important to preserve its traditional roots and ensure that it continues to evolve in a way that honors its rich history and cultural significance.
FAQs
1. What is folk music?
Folk music is a type of traditional music that is passed down through generations, often by oral tradition. It is typically characterized by simple melodies, folk instruments, and lyrics that reflect the culture and experiences of the people who create and perform it. Folk music is often associated with rural or folk cultures, but it can also be found in urban areas and among migrant communities.
2. What are the characteristics of folk music?
Folk music is typically characterized by its simplicity, with easy-to-remember melodies and lyrics that often tell stories or reflect the experiences of the people who create and perform it. Folk music is often performed on traditional instruments such as guitars, banjos, fiddles, and harmonicas, but it can also be performed using modern instruments. Folk music often features call-and-response vocals, and may include elements of blues, country, and other musical genres.
3. What are some examples of folk music?
There are many different types of folk music, and it can be found in many different cultures around the world. Some examples of folk music include American folk music, such as bluegrass and country music; Irish folk music, such as traditional Irish tunes and ballads; and African folk music, such as traditional tribal music and blues. Folk music can also include popular songs that have become classics, such as “House of the Rising Sun” and “This Land is Your Land.”
4. How is folk music different from other types of music?
Folk music is different from other types of music in that it is typically passed down through generations by oral tradition, rather than being composed by professional musicians. Folk music often reflects the culture and experiences of the people who create and perform it, and is often associated with rural or folk cultures. In contrast, other types of music, such as classical music and pop music, are often composed by professional musicians and may be more commercial in nature.
5. What is the importance of folk music?
Folk music is important because it helps to preserve the cultural heritage of a particular community or region. It can also provide a sense of identity and connection to one’s roots, and can be a source of pride and inspiration for those who create and perform it. Additionally, folk music can be a means of social and political commentary, and can be used to express dissenting views and promote social change.
