Folk music, with its roots in storytelling and cultural identity, is experiencing a revival thanks to digital platforms. Aisha Patel examines how artists are using the internet to bypass traditional gatekeepers, sharing their music directly with global audiences. This piece discusses the fusion of old folk traditions with modern sounds, creating a new genre that resonates with contemporary issues while preserving cultural heritage. It also looks at the role of social media in folk music’s resurgence, from viral covers to digital festivals that celebrate traditional music.
However, this revival brings challenges; authenticity is debated as artists blend genres. Patel explores how the digital age has led to a democratization of music but also to concerns about cultural appropriation. The article includes interviews with musicians who are navigating this landscape, using digital tools for both creation and preservation. It ends with a reflection on how folk music, once seen as a genre of the past, is now at the forefront of cultural dialogue, connecting past narratives with modern identities.
