Three outstanding new folk singer songwriters you’ll want to include in your playlists

Joshu – “way back home”
-I often tell people that we prefer traditional folk styling, but a sound like this from Joshu has both traditional and contemporary elements in equal measure. It’s a wonderful, relaxing sound that highlights the colorful combination of a relaxing acoustic guitar and a gentle lead vocal. The overall energy of the track is calming and meaningful. There are a lot of examples from literature and philosophy that we are all on a journey “back home.” This song parallels those classic stories well, with a gentle reassuring and comforting overall style. The orchestral elements pair nicely with the traditional folk aspects, creating a memorable and engaging sound.

Josiah Letchworth – “Once I Find My Feet Again”
-I’m a sucker for a good storytelling folk artist and Josiah Letchworth is a great example of that timeless style. The “fair thee well” reference is iconic for folk fans of a certain age. There’s a whimsical energy to this song that feels both like a fairytale and simultaneously like it’s grounded. When I tell people that I like folk music, this is the type of song I want them to hear in their minds. The lyrics are poetic, the acoustic guitar moves along with calming energy, and the overall product is stronger than the sum of its parts. Also, I adore the core message of fulfilling grand plans once you “find your feet again.” I’ve lived a lot of my life with this sensibility. This is a gem.

Manella – “I’d Die Willingly”
-It’s rare to find a song that disarms me so clearly at first listen. There’s a sincerity to the songwriting here that is hard to ignore. Manella’s vocal is exceptionally good and the production mix is perfect, allowing for a careful balance of the guitar and voice. The lyrics are the disarming part, the willingness to die just to be with someone. People throw around sentiments of giving their lives for their partner, but this expression is not just sacrificial type of love but rather saying that being with that person, connecting with them results in such great fulfillment that you’d “die willingly.” What a concept. This goes beyond romantic or poetic. This is powerful and almost philosophical in its depth. It’s a standout performance and a lyrical concept that really stays with the listener.

Image courtesy: Joshu IG