Folk music: More popular than you think

Since the legendary Bob Dylan visited the IU Auditorium on Monday, his music has softly sung in my ears.

However, when people hear “folk music,” many do not understand the great impact that this unique genre has had on popular culture.

Folk music originated in the 19th century in contrast to classical or commercial music and can be derived from folklore. Since then, subgenres such as folk rock and progressive folk music have recently developed. 

Peter, Paul and Mary, Woody Guthrie and Dylan are just some of the influential and popular artists of this style, while others such as The Weepies are less-known but still admired. 

Even if folk is not your forte, it is important to have an appreciation for it and the impact that it has on popular music, TV and movies today. 

The great part about folk is that it can mean a lot without saying much. Whether it’s in the background while you are doing homework or during a scene in a film, it creates an element of emotion or relaxation. 

Even if you have not realized it, the work of folk singers is constantly showcased in television and movies. 

Dylan contributed an unreleased single, “California,” to the newest soundtrack of the hit series “NCIS.”

Alison Krauss, Grammy award-winning bluegrass singer and fiddler, has been featured in numerous soundtracks such as “O Brother, Where Art Thou?” and the TV series “Alias.”

For all the girls out there who watch “My Best Friend’s Wedding,” Ani Difranco’s “Wishin’ and Hopin’” is the single playing during the film’s introduction. 

Less well-known artists such as Iron & Wine and Ray LaMontagne are considered rock folk artists and have also been involved in the hype of popular culture.
 
Music by Iron & Wine is included in “Twilight,” “The L Word” and “Friday Night Lights,” and samples from LaMontagne are in “The Devil Wears Prada” and “The Last Kiss.”

This genre is everywhere in mainstream culture. Although the music is subtle in its nature, it has an important role. The actual genre has evolved from its traditional terms, but continues to provide a diverse mixture from the pop, rock and rap we hear today.