Best Indie Folk Songs Of All Time
Indie Folk became popular in the 90s. At least that’s what they say on the vast spaces of internet. Regardless of when it began, I know that I got hooked to this music genre in the very early 2000s. And since then a good indie song will always find a place in my playlists. And I am not alone – the popularity of Indie Folk speaks for itself.
There are many artists who perform in this style since then. One of the first ones I heard was Elliott Smith. It was his song in the Good Will Hunting (1997) movie that caught my attention. The sound, the emotions, and how well the song fit the moment in the film was really captivating. And so unsurprisingly I wanted to find more about the genre and listen to more songs like that.
It was more than 20 years ago. I did find more artists, and I did explore the genre. And now I’d like to share the best songs I heard over these years. And so very modestly I present you this List of Best Indie Folk Songs Of All Time. Please note that songs are given in no particular order.
1. Elliott Smith – Between The Bars
Elliot Smith is often cited as one of the musicians who was at the origins of the genre. An American musician and singer-songwriter who created iconic soundtrack to Good Will Hunting (1997) movie and instantly captured attention of millions.
2. Jackson C. Frank – Just Like Anything
Jackson C. Frank was an American folk musician, who wrote and performed some of the most beautiful songs. And yet if you ask an average music fan, they would most likely have no idea who he was. Because not many people got a change to actually see him live or even stumble upon his extraordinary music. In part due to his tragic life story that prevented his career to develop as it should have. The song “Just Like Anything” is one of many exceptional compositions this great artist has left for us. A true icon not only of indie folk but music in general.
3. You+Me – You and Me
You+Me is a music duo project of singers and songwriters Dallas Green (known as City and Colour), and Alecia Moore, (known as Pink). They released their debut album “Rose Ave.” on October 14, 2014. And to say that it was different from their previous songs would be an understatement. Their collaboration truly showed how multidimensional these two artists are. I highly recommend checking that album if you love folk and indie music.
4. Bert Sommer – “Jennifer”
Bert Sommer was an American folk singer and songwriter. He had a very memorable performance at Woodstock 1969, and the song Jennifer is absolutely great. Not many people heard it or even know who Bert is. Let’s change that. This is one of the earliest compositions that are right in line with the indie folk category.
5. Fleet Foxes – Mykonos
Fleet Foxes are one of the most famous indie folk bands. They are often the first band whose name comes up when indie folk is discussed. They played a big role in popularizing the genre in 2000s. Their hit song “Mykonos” is probably the most recognizable tune from their discography. And it perfectly shows what the band is capable of.
6. Nick Drake – Clothes Of Sand
Nick Drake is a rare and bright music star who has remained widely unknown for many years. Yet he was an inspiration for so many contemporary musicians. He influenced artists like Kate Bush, Peter Buck of R.E.M., Robert Smith of the Cure, Bon Iver, Iron & Wine, Alexi Murdoch and Philip Selway of Radiohead. A very distinctive voice, lyricist and guitar player, Nick Drake was ahead of his time. Or should I say he is permanently outside of time with his unique music style. A style that often combines all the best elements of folk and indie.
7. Ben Howard – Promise
Ben Howard without a doubt is one of the brightest stars of the whole genre. The man is extremely talented and creates captivating music. “Promise” is a great example of how fabulous Ben Howard is. If you like indie or folk, you should definitely listen to his albums. And if you also enjoy experimental and alternative vibes, you will find plenty of that in his repertoire as well.
8. José González – Heartbeats
José González is well known for all the fans of Indie and folk. Solo classical guitar and soft melody is his trademark sound. José is a talented songwriter but he also likes to give his version of other artists’ songs. Heartbeats is one such song. It very well may be his mst famous one. A splendid composition that never gets old.
9. Eddie Vedder – Society
Eddie Vedder is best known as the lead singer of the super popular rock band Pearl Jam, where he is also a primary lyricist, and one of three guitarists. But he has written and performed a lot outside of the Pearl Jam. That’s how he released a solo album as a soundtrack for the movie Into the Wild in 2007. A superb collection of songs, I recommend it.
10. Gregory Alan Isakov – San Luis
Gregory Alan Isakov writes songs that are so easy to enjoy. Deep creative lyrics, soft acoustics, great voice. Like others in this list he creates his own unique sound. His music has the special kind of vibe to it. The song “San Luis” is one oh his best.
11. James Vincent McMorrow – Breaking hearts
A perfect song for chilling after work, going on the road trip, thinking about your life, driving a car. Amazing tune by James Vincent McMorrow. A more upbeat melody than you might expect from most of Indie Folk hits, but music of the genre is very much varying from song to song.
12. Scott Matthews – Elusive
Released in 2012 this masterpiece by Scott Matthews is never getting out of fashion. Just a superb piece of musical art that happened to belong in the folk and indie genre. Mr. Matthews has so many great songs. Do yourself a favor, check them out.
13. Ray LaMontagne – Empty
Ray LaMontagne needs little introduction if you ever listened to folk or indie music. With a name like that the man was destined to become a great artist, right? He has a very memorable voice and his songs stand the test of time. He’s the author of multiple iconic hits, including Trouble, Such A Simple Thing, Let It Be Me. But his superhit Empty is just something else.
14. Joshua Radin – Sundrenched World
“Sundrenched World” is a unique song. The way it’s written, the way it’s composed, the way it combines lyrics and the melody. You should only hear it once to get hooked forever. Check out other Joshua Radin’s best songs.
15. Piers Faccini – Time of Nought
Piers Faccini is an accomplished folk singer and songwriter. He has a rich discography and has made numerous collaborations over the years. “Time of Nought” is my favorite song. It is very distinctive and catches your attention from the first notes.
16. Sufjan Stevens – Visions of Gideon
Sufjan Stevens is a popular artist, especially in the circle of indie folk enthusiasts. He has plenty of great songs, but among all those hits “Visions of Gideon” has always stood apart. It has some magical feel to it, that is hard to describe, but super easy to recognize – once you listen to it.
17. Iron & Wine – Flightless Bird, American Mouth
Iron & Wine is a stage name of Samuel Ervin Beam. If you like this music genre, you must have stumbled upon his work for sure. The song “Flightless Bird, American Mouth” is his most famous one. Super original, extremely catchy.
18. Damien Rice – The Blower’s Daughter
One of he most recognizable and iconic songs of the genre. “The Blower’s Daughter” is absolutely amazing. Not only it’s among TOP 5 songs by Damien Rice, it definitely deserves a spot in this list.
19. Fink – Foot In The Door
If you haven’t heard Fink before, I can’t recommend his music enough. It is super good. The whole album Perfect Darkness is exceptional. The song ‘Foot In The Door’ is one of the highlights of that release. Perfect example of contemporary folk.
20. M. Ward – Fuel for Fire
‘Fuel for Fire’ by M. Ward is in many way the highlight of the indie folk genre. The vocals, the guitar, the gentle melody. Very underrated hidden musical gem.
21. Angus & Julia Stone – Draw Your Swords
‘Draw Your Swords’ by Angus & Julia Stone is juts one of their many stunning songs. This brother and sister duo creates some of the most fabulous indie-folk songs you’ll ever find.
22. Amos Lee – Out Of The Cold
‘Out Of The Cold’ by Amos Lee is one of his best songs, and it’s a perfect blend of folk, soul and indie. The man is crazy talented, if you like this music genre, you should check his catalog.