Traditional English Folk

Traditional English folk music is characterized by its storytelling lyrics, modal melodies, and distinctive instrumentation, often featuring acoustic instruments like the fiddle, accordion, and concertina. Emerging from rural oral traditions, the genre evolved over centuries, influenced by medieval ballads, sea shanties, and regional customs. Its golden era spanned the mid-20th century to the 1970s, when the folk revival sparked a new wave of interest. This music played a significant cultural role, preserving England's rich heritage and fostering community through sing-alongs and dance. Traditional English folk is distinct from other styles, such as Irish or Scottish folk, in its use of nuanced, atmospheric arrangements and a strong emphasis on lyrical narrative. Its impact can be seen in the later development of electric folk and folk rock, while its unique sound continues to captivate audiences with its haunting beauty and emotional depth.

Latest Traditional English Folk Release
undefined album image
Dark Streets of London
Single - Released October 15, 2025
Top Artists Spotify Logo
Sam Lee
The Trials of Cato
The Unthanks
Stick in the Wheel
Lady Maisery
Sam Kelly
Top Playlists
The Sound of Drone Folk 1 Traditional English Folk artist
Old Gods of Appalachia 1 Traditional English Folk artist

RecentMusic users are tracking 24 Traditional English Folk artists for new releases, and have access to the full timeline of 266 releases

Join them and feed your new music addiction, and add the Traditional English Folk artists you love!

Get Started Browse Arists
  1. October 15, 2025
  2. June 6
  3. May 23
  4. May 23
  5. May 9
  6. April 11
  7. March 28
  8. January 24
  9. November 29, 2024
  10. November 1
  11. November 1
  12. October 24
  13. October 21
  14. October 11
  15. October 4
  16. September 27
  17. September 6
  18. September 6
  19. August 9
  20. August 8
  21. August 8
  22. July 19
  23. July 4
  24. May 10
  25. April 26
  26. March 15
  27. February 28
  28. January 29
  29. November 15, 2023
  30. September 29
  31. September 15
  32. September 15
  33. September 1
  34. August 25
  35. August 2
  36. May 3
  37. April 28
  38. April 28
  39. April 21
    undefined album image
    Forms
    10 tracks
  40. April 14
  1. June 6, 2025
  2. November 29, 2024
  3. November 1
  4. October 11
  5. September 27
  6. May 10
  7. March 15
  8. September 29, 2023
  9. September 1
  10. April 21
    undefined album image
    Forms
    10 tracks
  11. April 7
  12. March 24
  13. March 24
  14. March 17
  15. December 2, 2022
  16. November 25
  17. November 25
  18. November 11
  19. October 14
  20. May 27