Best Basic Folk Podcasts (2025)

1
Mary Gauthier & Jaimee Harris on THE Three Shoes, Alchemy and Weeding out Baddies, ep. 308 57:54

2d ago57:54

57:54

Mary Gauthier and Jaimee Harris talk to Lizzie and Cindy for Basic Folk on-board the Cayamo cruise in front of a live audience. We get down to business in addressing NICE things by asking Mary what kind of shoes she's wearing – as she has a reputation for enjoying the good stuff, especially on her feet. After that, we asked and Jaimee Harris enthus…

1
Susan Werner on Defining Hard Work, Paid Vacations, and Relaxing as Indie Musician, ep. 307 46:29

9d ago46:29

46:29

The dynamic songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Susan Werner talks to us onboard the Cayamo cruise, which she describes as a "paid vacation." Reflecting on her upbringing on a working farm, Susan discusses the hard work that shaped her, but also how she’s learning to embrace rest and relaxation. With humor and insight, she navigates the balance be…

1
Jon Muq: Uganda, Cruise Ship Food and His Googly-Eyed Guitar, ep. 306 34:55

16d ago34:55

34:55

Originally from the village of Mutungo, Uganda (near the country's capital of Kampala), Jon Muq's journey to his current life of touring with an Austin, Texas home-base has been unconventional. Onboard the Cayamo cruise earlier this year, we talked to Jon about his childhood experiences, including fetching water with friends and "We Are the World,"…

1
Ani DiFranco & Carsie Blanton: Menopause, The Wild Child, and Naps to fight Capitalism, ep. 305 43:44

23d ago43:44

43:44

Basic Folk is making trouble at sea with Ani DiFranco and Carsie Blanton! Hosts Lizzie and Cindy had the opportunity to speak with the two like-minded radical songwriters aboard the 2025 edition of Cayamo, a roots music cruise. Our conversation kicks off with Ani sharing her transformative experience performing as Persephone in the Broadway show 'H…

1
Loudon Wainwright III: Oversharing, Family Ties, and Musical Legacy, ep. 304 46:20

1M ago46:20

46:20

The legendary Loudon Wainwright III, whose career has spanned over five decades, is known for his deeply personal songwriting and sharp wit – and oversharing. The patriarch of the Wainwright folk dynasty (which includes Rufus, Martha, their late mother Kate McGarrigle, as well as Lucy and her mother Suzzy Roche), Loudon reflects on the balance betw…

1
Olivia Ellen Lloyd: West Virginia to Brooklyn, Finding Ground in Water, ep. 303 1:01:14

1M ago1:01:14

1:01:14

Olivia Ellen Lloyd's latest album, 'Do It Myself,' sees the West Virginia-born Brooklyn-based songwriter reflecting on the powerful imagery of water. She shares how it has been a source of grounding and calmness in her life, from childhood memories spent on the Potomac River to her current love for the ocean, these elements have shaped her artistic…

1
Bonnie "Prince" Billy On Making Nashville Musical Magic, ep. 302 1:04:32

1M ago1:04:32

1:04:32

Will Oldham, also known as Bonnie "Prince" Billy, has led an illustrious, sometimes mysterious career which has spanned decades and genres. Hailing from and still living in Lexington, KY, in our Basic Folk conversation Will reflects on his journey from a young artist struggling to find his place in the music world to a seasoned musician who embrace…

1
Rose Cousins & Edie Carey: Bast Friendship, Music, and the Art of Spatula-ing Life, ep. 301 1:25:31

2M ago1:25:31

1:25:31

Rose Cousins and Edie Carey's friendship has blossomed for over two decades. On the occasion of Rose releasing her new album, 'Conditions of Love - Vol 1,' the pair appear on Basic Folk to discuss the new music. They reflect on their early days and their first meeting as well as the ways they’ve influenced each other's careers and personal growth. …

1
Sierra Hull: Mandolin Magic and Small Town Roots, ep. 300 1:06:40

2M ago1:06:40

1:06:40

When mandolinist Sierra Hull was little, her dad told her she was really good "for a ten year old." The older Hull knew Sierra had a fiery passion for the instrument and he knew exactly how to motivate his daughter. He went on to say that if she wanted to go to jams and porch-play for the rest of her life, she'd learned enough. He gave her realisti…

1
Basic Folk Presents: Folk Files: Shady Grove 25:27

2M ago25:27

25:27

Editor’s note: Basic Folk is pleased to introduce our listeners to one of our favorite podcasts by sharing an episode in our feed! Folk Files is a podcast hosted by Olivia Harding that seeks to uncover the mysteries of folk music through the ages and dive deep into the tangled history of murder ballads, sea shanties, rebel songs, and other music th…

1
Gary Louris talks to Mark Erelli on Songwriting, Late in Life Love, and Technology, ep. 299 1:01:02

2M ago1:01:02

1:01:02

You probably know Gary Louris as the leader of The Jayhawks – or as they refer to themselves, “a band from Minnesota.” The Jayhawks are pioneers of roots rock, alt-country, and Americana. Whatever you wanna call it, they’ve been making records where rock, pop, country, and other forms of American roots music overlap since the mid-1980s. But Louris’…

1
Chum Darang – The Most Real Personality of Bigg Boss | Smalltalk with Koko 28:33

2M ago28:33

28:33

Description: In this episode, I sit down with Chum Darang, who recently made waves in Bigg Boss and earned recognition as one of the most real and authentic personalities on the show. She has made a name for herself in the industry, and it was great having her as a guest on Smalltalk with Koko. This is a short and sweet conversation, but I hope you…

1
Lilly Hiatt: Driving Tunes and Life Lessons, ep. 297 44:50

2M ago44:50

44:50

Singer-songwriter Lilly Hiatt has an interesting way of working melodies and a down to earth way of telling stories about her life and about how she sees the world. All of her albums have cool, crunchy guitar parts that take folk songwriting to a new rockin' level. On her new album 'Forever,' Hiatt's diverse influences are woven into songs that tou…

1
Bonus Mary Sue Twohy: From Folk Roots to Radio Waves 41:12

2M ago41:12

41:12

SiriusXM's folk radio programmer Mary Sue Twohy has not had a straight career path, but it's certainly been adventurous. Mary Sue, who is about to be inducted into the Folk DJ Hall of Fame, has held many different jobs over her life, most notably as a touring singer songwriter and as a beloved folk radio programmer, host and active community member…

1
Sam Moss: Gentle Folk Sounds and Woodworking Bounds, ep. 296 58:25

3M ago58:25

58:25

Although the ever-enigmatic Sam Moss is not a great swimmer, he named his latest album 'Swimming.' The folk singer with a gentle demeanor is back with thoughtful songs and captivating melodies. Hailing from New England, Sam has carved out a unique niche in the folk world, blending naturalistic themes with an introspective approach to songwriting. W…

1
Covered in Moss: Anna B Savage's World of Folk, Birds and Ireland, ep. 295 57:32

3M ago57:32

57:32

Anna B Savage is down to earth and witchy as hell at the same time. Over her three albums, she's cultivated a memorizing sound and epic image – like David Bowie, Bjork, Kate Bush, etc. – that's gained her a god-like reputation. A reputation which preceded the actual human being behind the art, leaving some to wonder what it would be like to speak t…

1
Carolyn Kendrick's Devilish Detour: Satan's Folk Music, Moral Panic and the Color Red, ep. 294 1:07:30

3M ago1:07:30

1:07:30

Carolyn Kendrick's latest project explores complex themes of moral panic, tradition, and the figure of the devil (AKA Satan, AKA Lucifer). The LA-based songwriter opens up about the inspiration behind her album, 'Each Machine,' which is accompanied by a thought-provoking zine. In our Basic Folk conversation, she discusses the significance of the co…

1
Josh Kaufman: Imperfect Folk Music & Backstage Snacks, ep. 293 1:02:56

3M ago1:02:56

1:02:56

Multi-talented musician and producer Josh Kaufman is known for his work with Josh Ritter, The National, and his band Bonny Light Horseman. I've known Josh for many years, after meeting him in Pittsburgh while he was on tour with Dawn Landes. I felt instant friendship with him (and honestly with the entire Dawn Landes band that day). We haven't seen…

1
Lutalo: Hip Hop Roots and Folk Future(s), ep. 292 50:22

4M ago50:22

50:22

In 2024, Vermont's Lutalo released their debut album, The Academy. In this episode of Basic Folk, they share the profound influence of their father, whose deep love for artistry and creativity laid the foundation for Lutalo's musical path. We delve into the broad variety of their influences, from underground hip-hop to African drumming classes, eac…

1
Jerry Douglas: From Steel Mills to Dobro Thrills, ep. 291 57:50

4M ago57:50

57:50

Jerry Douglas is widely regarded as the best Dobro player in the world. Alison Krauss, Emmylou Harris, and James Taylor are counted among his many collaborators and his four-decade career has earned him 16 GRAMMY Awards and numerous other accolades. In our Basic Folk conversation, he shares stories about his upbringing in Warren, Ohio, where his fa…

1
Basic Folk: An Official Bluegrass Situation Production 5:06

4M ago5:06

5:06

Basic Folk features honest conversations with folk musicians hosted by Cindy Howes and Lizzie No. We approach interviews with warmth, humor and insightful questions. Since 2018, this podcast has dignified under the radar roots musicians by providing a platform that they might not otherwise have. You’ll hear interviews from Three-time Grammy-winning…

1
Ep7| Uncut |Maylula| folk rock | acoustic live session | Rupa | Arunachal Pradesh 10:04

4M ago10:04

10:04

Acoustic Live Session Finale Song : Shangri-La We’re closing this incredible edition of Acoustic Live Session with a breathtaking performance by Maylula! Their original track, Shangri-La, is the perfect finale, blending folk and rock to take you on a spiritual and emotional journey through enchanting melodies and profound lyrics. About the Artists:…

1
Year-End Reflections with Cindy & Lizzie: A Wild 2024 Ride, ep. 290 1:11:13

5M ago1:11:13

1:11:13

It's 2024 recap time on Basic Folk! Cindy & Lizzie dive into a most special year-end reflection, featuring highlights from our honest conversations with folk musicians. We revisit THE top episode of the year, Anna Tivel & Jeffrey Martin's insightful discussion on navigating artistic challenges and living a simple life. Cindy shares her favorite epi…

1
Nature Calls for Trampled by Turtles' Dave Simonett: Music, Hunting and Home, ep. 289 1:00:14

5M ago1:00:14

1:00:14

Dave Simonett, lead singer and songwriter of the bluegrass-adjacent Trampled by Turtles, is a talented musician AND a great outdoorsman. From the small town of Mankato, Minnesota, to the vibrant music scenes of Duluth and Minneapolis, Simonett shares his upbringing in a musically-inclined, nature-loving family, shaped by the sounds of church hymns …

1
Becca Stevens on Grief, Spiritual Co-Writing and Connection, ep. 288 58:17

5M ago58:17

58:17

I (lizzie) first came across Becca Stevens via her collaboration with string group The Attica Quartet. Her new album, Maple to Paper, is really different from her previous releases. If you think you know everything that there is to know about Becca Stevens as a singer, songwriter, arranger, and producer, you are wrong. And you are going to be so am…

1
Twisted Pines' Kathleen Parks Secret Polka Past, ep. 287 1:19:48

6M ago1:19:48

1:19:48

Hot off the heels of Twisted Pines' latest release, Love Your Mind, Kathleen Parks is here to dig into her uncelebrated polka origins. Daughter of renowned trumpetist Eric Parks, the younger Parks grew up in New York's Hudson Valley in a very creative family (her mother was also a dancer and the one who made Kathleen practice all the time). She sta…

1
Edie Carey & Sarah Sample: remain Cool despite Comfort, Cajons and Dream Catchers, ep. 286 1:08:26

6M ago1:08:26

1:08:26

Friends and collaborators, Edie Carey & Sarah Sample teamed up in 2014 for their first album Til the Morning: Lullabies and Songs of Comfort. The pair both had babies and were wanting to do a project that centered around calming music for both children and adults. They were shocked at the album's reception by adults (aka non-babies) who listened af…

1
The Sound of Women's Voices: A Shorty Bonus on a Weird Ass Day 16:34

6M ago16:34

16:34

I woke up today and my wife told me the news. I went for a walk in the woods and found myself thinking about We Shall Overcome and singing it by myself surrounded by fallen leaves and pine trees. I put on Dawn Landes’ new album: The Liberated Woman’s Songbook, I thought about women of the past and how they found their strength. I started posting cl…

1
From Songwriting to Sobriety: Kasey Anderson's Journey to His Final Album, ep. 285 1:11:41

6M ago1:11:41

1:11:41

We're starting with the end in our conversation with Kasey Anderson. On the pod, we've covered a lot of firsts; debut album, origin stories and the beginnings. Ever since I (lizzie) have known Kasey, his social media bio has been "gradually retiring songwriter." I'm always teasing him about "What does that mean? When are you going to retire?" Offic…

1
Ep6|KIT |AUTUMN |experimental pop |Acoustic live session|Arunachal pradesh 8:44

6M ago8:44

8:44

KIT ( Dekit Rigia ) brings her heartfelt song Autumn to this Acoustic Live Session, capturing the bittersweet reflections of a breakup that took place as the leaves began to fall. Written after a season of change, Autumn tells a story of love and loss, perfectly capturing the fleeting beauty of memories. Brought to you by our sponsors: 13 Old Spir…

1
Riffing on Life: Chuck Prophet talks Music, Surfing, and Storytelling with Mark Erelli, EP. 284 1:16:09

6M ago1:16:09

1:16:09

Editor’s note: For this episode, we invited our friend Mark Erelli to interview Chuck Prophet. The two are familiar with each other's work through songwriting together for Mark's latest album Lay Your Darkness Down (2023). We're thrilled to welcome Mark back as guest host! Chuck Prophet has been a mainstay on the indie and Americana music scenes si…

1
Ep5|Uncut |Ajina| The Outcast |Indie Folk | Acoustic live session | Arunachal Pradesh 19:16

6M ago19:16

19:16

Ajina by The Outcast is a beautifully raw song that captures the ache of longing and the weight of absence. Written and performed by Takap Likha, it tells the story of a love that once was but has now slipped away. The gentle indie folk melodies flow seamlessly with Takap’s tender voice. Lyrics like “Ajina no holo kudi, naam ngo mwngpa do” pull at …

1
Liv Greene on Finding her Tender Little Queer Heart, ep. 283 55:32

7M ago55:32

55:32

Oh how I've longed to talk to Liv Greene. Every once in a while you come across a young artist that seems older and wiser than her 26 years. Liv's been giving me that impression since I met her in 2019 when she was at Club Passim waiting tables and breaking hearts on the stage at just 21 years. Ok enough about being young. Liv's been writing, study…

1
Ep4|Uncut | The Daydreamers | experimental blues | Acoustic Live Session | Arunachal Pradesh 8:45

7M ago8:45

8:45

The Daydreamers - Acoustic Live Session In this episode, The Daydreamers deliver a heartfelt performance of their soulful Experimental Blues track, penned by vocalist Kabak Richie. This session is brought to you by 13 Old Spirit in collaboration with Ragi’s Studio and Artistic Avenue Home Studio. Song Title: Take Me Back to the Past Lyrics by: Kaba…

1
Exploring Ancestral Roots with Blind Pilot, ep. 282 56:02

7M ago56:02

56:02

The Oregon-bred indie folk music outfit Blind Pilot goes on a deep spiritual journey on their new album In the Shadow of the Holy Mountain (produced by Josh Kaufman). The music inspiration for frontman Israel Nebeker lay in his songwriting process. After struggling with writing for years (this is the first Blind Pilot album in 8 years), he set asid…

1
Ep3|Uncut | PAAS | Rei James | Indie Pop | Acoustic live session | Arunachal Pradesh 8:13

7M ago8:13

8:13

Rei James and the band debuts “Paas,” an indie-pop track inspired by the emotional process of moving on after a relationship. Written during a time of personal healing, “Paas” beautifully captures the bittersweet emotions of letting go and finding closure. With Rei James on vocals and guitar, Stephen Tana on lead guitar, Khoda Rido on bass, and Cha…

1
Amy Helm: Letters to Women and the Legacy of The Barn, ep. 281 1:14:03

7M ago1:14:03

1:14:03

Amy Helm has had one of the most fascinating lives that any person can have. As you might have guessed from her famous last name, she comes from roots music royalty. Amy Helm is the daughter of Levon Helm, the beloved late drummer for the incredible groundbreaking Canadian American group The Band. She also continues to run and uphold the musical le…

1
Ep2|Uncut | oh darling | Indie pop | Acoustic Live Session | Arunachal Pradesh 7:02

7M ago7:02

7:02

Song Description: Brought to you by 13 Old Spirit, ‘Oh Darling’ is a soulful acoustic track that hits all the right notes of emotion and melody. With heartfelt lyrics by KarKa Ragi and Marin Kabak’s stunning vocals, the song weaves together raw feeling and soothing harmonies. Cbon Ingti’s guitar work and Hage Lagi gentle keys add a beautiful depth …

1
From Reality Bites to Nursery Rhymes: Lisa Loeb's Unconventional Journey, ep. 280 1:06:58

7M ago1:06:58

1:06:58

Looking back at her wildly successful and always adventurous career up to this point, it feels inevitable that Lisa Loeb was always going to be a songwriter and have a music career. But young Lisa probably could have done any creative job well. She grew up surrounded by music, yes, but she also had a passion for theater, and got her degree in compa…

1
Ep1|Uncut |Aaba Noh By Bida & the Patañ | indie folk | Acoustic live session | Arunachal Pradesh 7:44

7M ago7:44

7:44

This acoustic live session is a new addition to our podcast, aimed at bringing the golden days of live music back into the spotlight while showcasing the talented artists from Arunachal. Bida & The Patañ Song: A Letter To My Father (Aaba Noh?) Genre: Indie Folk Bida Mudang: Vocal/Guitar Cibon Ingti: Lead Guitar/Melodica Taru Nomo: Bass Chachung…

1
Folk Music, Friendship, and Fountain Pens: Nerding out with Bruce Molsky & Darol Anger, ep. 29 1:07:23

8M ago1:07:23

1:07:23

The names Bruce Molsky and Darol Anger have come up more often than not when talking to fiddlers on Basic Folk. The pair have single handedly mentored hundreds of our favorites in fiddle music at Berklee College of Music in Boston, Darol's online music school, music camps, festivals and more. Darol and Bruce joined us on the occasion of their newes…

1
Basic Folk Presents: American Masters: Creative Spark feat. Jewel 38:37

8M ago38:37

38:37

Editor’s note: Basic Folk is pleased to introduce our listeners to one of our favorite podcasts by sharing an episode in our feed! Do you ever find yourself watching, reading, or listening to something truly amazing and wondering, “How did they do it?”. That's why we wanted to share an episode of American Masters: Creative Spark, the award-winning …

1
141- "The Euphoria Of Push-ups At 6:16" 4:49:26

8M ago4:49:26

4:49:26

We talking Drake vs Kendrick! We are breaking down the diss tracks, discussing strategy from both MCs, and giving our take on who we have winning this word war so far! #Drake #Kendrick #Euphoria #PushupsWant to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6625665805975552…

1
140- “Diddy Do it? Or What Diddy Do?” 1:55:54

8M ago1:55:54

1:55:54

The Podnas got lots to talk about, the #Diddy raid, #Baltimore Bridge destruction, #JoeBiden failing mental state, #CandaceOwens #BreakfastClub interview, #KendrickvsCole #KendrickvsDrake, #Future, #MetroBoomin #RickRoss all #beef with #DrakeWant to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6625665805975552…

1
139- "Back 2 Basics" 1:33:01

8M ago1:33:01

1:33:01

This week we return to just reacting to vids and giving our commentary...Pull up and let's laugh, joke, get life lessons, and just vibe witcha boys! Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6625665805975552

1
Balancing Dreams and Reality: A Folk Debate on Ambition, ep. 278 1:10:27

8M ago1:10:27

1:10:27

Welcome to another edition of Folk Debate Club, our occasional debate series! To discuss Ambition vs Acceptance, we welcome our panel: music journalist Kim Ruehl, Basic Folk boss Cindy Howes, and yours truly Lizzie No. We would like to extend a very warm welcome to our special guests singer-songwriter Michaela Anne & producer Aaron Shafer-Haiss, al…

1
Jeffrey Foucault remembers Billy Conway with Universal Fire, ep. 277 1:15:02

8M ago1:15:02

1:15:02

In our episode with Wisconsin-born, New England based Jeffrey Foucault, we had a handful of questions for the singer-songwriter about his background: coffee, the midwest and Mark Twain wisdom. Then we talked about Billy Conway for more than an hour. Conway was Foucault's long-time partner in music, drummer and best friend who died from cancer in 20…

1
Amos Lee on Friends, Femininity and Folk Roots, ep. 276 1:05:35

8M ago1:05:35

1:05:35

Throughout his music career, singer-songwriter Amos Lee has cultivated a large female fanbase and also owes a lot of his early start to Norah Jones (a female!). He's about to hit the road co-headlining with folk music and queer icons, The Indigo Girls. In our conversation, he talks about the atmosphere he's going for in concert and it's not a very …

1
From Lancaster to the Limelight: The de Vitry Sibling Soundtrack, ep. 275 1:10:35

8M ago1:10:35

1:10:35

Maya, Nina and Lyle de Vitry's life, beginning in Lancaster PA, has been music and family, music festivals with old-time music, songwriting and folk music. The de Vitry siblings (including sister Monica, currently teaching art in Western Mass) grew up amongst music and nature in their rural home and even had a family band called Old-Time Liberation…

1
Basic Folk Presents: The Other 22 Hours - Mary Chapin Carpenter 49:49

9M ago49:49

49:49

Editor’s note: Basic Folk is pleased to introduce our listeners to one of our favorite podcasts by sharing an episode in our feed! The Other 22 hours, hosted by singer/songwriter Michaela Ann and producer Aaron Shafer-Haisse, talks to fellow musicians about the helpful tools and routines the use to stay creative, inspired, and …

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