With simply their voices and guitars, folk singers are the unplugged artists who tell our collective stories through their songs. Their music conveys universal truths and, in turbulent times, is often a call to action in the form of protest songs. Woody Guthrie, Bob Dylan, Joan Baez and other legendary folk singers have rallied audiences around historic causes such as the Civil Rights, peace and feminist movements. Here are some of the famous folk singers who were revolutionary through their songs.
American society experienced a revolution in the late 1960s and early 70s, especially for African-Americans and women. Janis Joplin was the finest white blues singer of her generation; female singer-songwriters like Carole King and Joni Mitchell shared their innermost thoughts and feelings; Aretha Franklin emerged as the Queen of Soul; and Bonnie Raitt established herself as both a strong vocalist and a brilliant guitarist. Through their music, the women of this era created the soundtrack of social progress.
View famous people who died in 1997 such as Mother Theresa, Gianni Versace, and John Denver.
Meet famous people like Nina Simone, Bea Arthur, Lucille Ball, and Charles Darwin, who died in the month of April.
Browse notable pianists such as Ray Charles, Ludwig van Beethoven, and Sun Ra.
Browse notable singers such as Mariah Carey, Johnny Cash, and Linda Ronstadt.