The 1960s was a golden era for folk music, with many iconic artists leaving their mark. However, the contributions of female singers are often overlooked.
This article will spotlight the legendary women who helped shape the 1960s folk scene and left an indelible impact on music history.
From Joan Baez to Joni Mitchell, we’ll explore these groundbreaking artists’ lives, careers, and lasting influence, celebrating their incredible talent and the barriers they broke down in a male-dominated industry.
The Legendary Female Singers of 60s Folk Music
1. Joan Baez
Joan Baez, known for her soprano voice and activism, emerged as a leading figure in the 1960s folk revival.
Her music often intertwines with her commitment to social justice, civil rights, and anti-war movements.
Baez’s powerful voice brought traditional folk songs and original compositions to a wide audience.
Her collaboration with Bob Dylan and her performances at iconic events like the Newport Folk Festival solidified her place in music history.
She continues to inspire with her enduring dedication to peace and human rights.
- Famous songs: “Diamonds & Rust,” “We Shall Overcome.”
- Awards: Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, Kennedy Center Honors.
- Years Active: 1959–present.
2. Judy Collins
She is renowned for her pure voice and eclectic repertoire. Judy Collins became a defining voice in the 1960s folk scene.
Her interpretations of traditional and contemporary songs, including works by Leonard Cohen and Joni Mitchell, showcased her versatility and emotional depth.
Collins’ hit version of “Both Sides Now” remains a career staple.
Beyond her music, she has advocated for social causes and has continued to record and perform throughout her career, significantly influencing the genre.
- Famous songs: “Both Sides Now,” “Send in the Clowns.”
- Awards: Grammy Award for Best Folk Performance.
- Years Active: 1959–present.
3. Odetta
Odetta’s powerful voice and influence on the folk and civil rights movements made her a central figure in the folk music revival and the civil rights movement of the 1960s.
Her performances of traditional African American folk songs, blues, and spirituals were both soulful and authoritative.
Martin Luther King Jr. called her the “Queen of American Folk Music.” Odetta’s music continues to resonate for its historical significance and emotional power.
- Famous songs: “Sometimes I Feel Like a Motherless Child,” “House of the Rising Sun.”
- Awards: National Medal of Arts, Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.
- Years Active: 1950–2008.
4. Buffy Sainte-Marie
Indigenous Canadian singer Buffy Sainte-Marie is known for her unique voice and activism.
With her music and activism, she brought Native American issues into the spotlight.
Her songs often addressed themes of war, love, and social justice.
Sainte-Marie’s distinctive voice and innovative use of electronic music set her apart in the folk scene.
Her song “Universal Soldier” became an anthem of the peace movement, and she has continued to be a pioneering force in music and education.
- Famous songs: “Universal Soldier,” “Until It’s Time for You to Go.”
- Awards: Academy Award for Best Original Song, Juno Awards.
- Years Active: 1963–present.
5. Joan Armatrading
Joan Armatrading is known for her deep voice and fusion of folk with other genres.
Her music combines folk, jazz, rock, and blues, creating a unique sound that has garnered critical acclaim.
Her introspective lyrics and passionate performances have earned her a dedicated following.
Armatrading’s career spans several decades, during which she has released numerous albums and received various honors, including Grammy nominations and an Ivor Novello Award for Outstanding Contemporary Song Collection.
- Famous songs: “Love and Affection,” “Willow.”
- Awards: Ivor Novello Award, Brit Award.
- Years Active: 1970–present.
6. Mary Travers (of Peter, Paul and Mary)
Peter, Paul, and Mary are integral to the folk trio.
Mary Travers’ rich voice and dynamic stage presence were essential to the success of Peter, Paul, and Mary.
The trio became one of the most popular folk groups of the 1960s, known for their harmonious vocals and politically charged songs.
They played a significant role in the civil rights and anti-war movements.
Travers’ contributions to music and activism have left a lasting legacy in the folk genre.
- Famous songs: “Puff, the Magic Dragon,” “If I Had a Hammer.”
- Awards: Grammy Awards for Folk Performance and Pop Performance by a Duo or Group.
- Years Active: 1961–2009.
7. Sandy Denny
Known for her work with Fairport Convention.
Sandy Denny’s ethereal voice and songwriting talent made her a key figure in British folk rock.
With Fairport Convention, she helped pioneer the fusion of traditional folk music with rock elements.
Denny’s song “Who Knows Where the Time Goes?” has become a folk standard.
Her solo career further showcased her artistry; although her life was tragically cut short, her influence on the genre remains profound.
- Famous songs: “Who Knows Where the Time Goes?”
- Awards: Inducted into the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards Hall of Fame.
- Years Active: 1967–1978.
8. Linda Ronstadt
Started in folk before branching out to other genres.
Linda Ronstadt’s early work with the Stone Poneys introduced her powerful voice to the folk scene.
She quickly expanded her repertoire to include rock, country, and pop, becoming one of the most versatile and successful singers of her time.
Ronstadt’s ability to convey emotion across different musical styles has earned her numerous accolades and a dedicated fan base.
- Famous songs: “Different Drum,” “Long Long Time.”
- Awards: Multiple Grammy Awards, Kennedy Center Honors.
- Years Active: 1967–2011.
9. Mimi Fariña
Joan Baez’s sister is known for her work with Richard Fariña. Mimi Fariña was a talented singer-songwriter and an activist.
Her collaborations with her husband, Richard Fariña, produced poignant and influential folk music.
After his untimely death, Mimi continued her musical career and also founded Bread and Roses, an organization dedicated to bringing free live music to people in institutions.
Her legacy includes both her musical contributions and her humanitarian efforts.
- Famous songs: “Pack Up Your Sorrows.”
- Awards: Founder’s Award from the Folk Alliance International.
- Years Active: 1964–2001.
10. Joni Mitchell
Blended folk with jazz, pop, and rock elements.
Joni Mitchell’s innovative approach to songwriting and distinctive voice made her one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century.
Her albums, such as “Blue” and “Court and Spark,” are considered masterpieces.
Mitchell’s lyrical prowess and ability to blend different musical styles have inspired countless artists. Her impact on folk music and beyond is immeasurable.
- Famous songs: “Big Yellow Taxi,” “Both Sides, Now.”
- Awards: Multiple Grammy Awards, Kennedy Center Honors.
- Years Active: 1964–2007.
11. Elenor McEvoy
Known for her passionate singing and songwriting.
Elenor McEvoy has made significant contributions to the contemporary folk scene.
Her heartfelt lyrics and evocative voice resonate deeply with audiences.
Her song “Only a Woman’s Heart” became the title track of the best-selling Irish album in history, showcasing her ability to connect with listeners profoundly and emotionally.
McEvoy’s music continues to explore themes of love, loss, and personal reflection.
- Famous songs: “Only a Woman’s Heart.”
- Awards: Various Irish Music Awards.
- Years Active: 1992–present.
12. Jean Ritchie
Prominent in reviving Appalachian folk music.
Jean Ritchie, often called the “Mother of Folk,” was crucial in preserving and popularizing traditional Appalachian songs.
Her authentic renditions and dulcimer playing brought the sounds of her Kentucky heritage to a wider audience.
Ritchie’s contributions have been instrumental in maintaining the cultural legacy of Appalachian folk music.
- Famous songs: “Nottamun Town,” “The L&N Don’t Stop Here Anymore.”
- Awards: National Heritage Fellowship.
- Years Active: 1940s–2015.
13. Janis Ian
She is notable for her poignant lyrics and gentle voice.
Janis Ian gained prominence with her introspective and socially conscious songwriting.
Her breakthrough song “Society’s Child,” about interracial romance, and the reflective “At Seventeen” earned her critical acclaim and commercial success.
Ian’s music often addresses themes of social justice, personal struggle, and emotional depth.
- Famous songs: “At Seventeen,” “Society’s Child.”
- Awards: Grammy Awards.
- Years Active: 1965–present.
14. Malvina Reynolds
She is known for her political activism and songwriting.
Malvina Reynolds used her music as a platform for social and political commentary.
Her songs, characterized by their wit and incisiveness, tackled issues like suburban conformity and environmentalism.
“Little Boxes” remains one of her most enduring and recognizable works, highlighting her unique ability to blend humor with serious messages.
- Famous songs: “Little Boxes,” “What Have They Done to the Rain.”
- Awards: Inducted into the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.
- Years Active: 1950s–1978.
15. Carly Simon
They started in folk before gaining fame in pop.
Carly Simon’s early work in the folk genre laid the foundation for her later success in pop and rock music.
Known for her confessional songwriting and distinctive contralto voice, Simon’s hits like “Anticipation” and “You’re So Vain” made her one of the most prominent singer-songwriters of the 1970s.
- Famous songs: “Anticipation,” “You’re So Vain.”
- Awards: Grammy Awards, Academy Award for Best Original Song.
- Years Active: 1964–present.
16. Emmylou Harris
Blended folk with country and rock.
Emmylou Harris has profoundly impacted both the folk and country music scenes.
Her crystal-clear voice and heartfelt performances have won her numerous accolades.
Harris’s collaborations with other artists and her ability to seamlessly blend genres have cemented her reputation as one of the most versatile and respected musicians of her time.
- Famous songs: “Boulder to Birmingham,” “If I Could Only Win Your Love.”
- Awards: Multiple Grammy Awards, Country Music Hall of Fame inductee.
- Years Active: 1969–present.
17. Kate McGarrigle (of Kate & Anna McGarrigle)
She is known for her work with her sister, Anna.
Kate McGarrigle, alongside her sister Anna, created some of the most beautiful and haunting folk music of their time.
Their harmonies and poignant lyrics captivated audiences around the world.
Kate’s influence extends beyond her own recordings.
Numerous artists have covered her songs, cementing her legacy in the folk genre.
- Famous songs: “Heart Like a Wheel,” “Talk to Me of Mendocino.”
- Awards: Juno Awards, Canadian Music Hall of Fame inductee.
- Years Active: 1971–2010.
18. Cis Corman
Folk singer turned film producer.
Cis Corman started her career in the folk music scene before transitioning into film production.
Although her musical output was not as prolific as some of her contemporaries, her contributions to traditional folk songs were well-regarded.
Later, she significantly impacted the film industry, producing notable films and working closely with acclaimed directors.
- Famous songs: Various traditional folk songs.
- Awards: Various film industry awards.
- Years Active: 1950s–1980s.
19. Bridget St John
She is known for her distinctive voice and guitar style.
Bridget St John emerged as a prominent figure in the British folk scene of the late 1960s. Her deep, expressive voice and intricate guitar work set her apart.
St John’s collaborations with other folk musicians and her solo recordings have garnered her a dedicated following and critical acclaim.
- Famous songs: “Ask Me No Questions,” “Back to Stay.”
- Awards: Peel Sessions regular, British Folk Awards.
- Years Active: 1968–present.
20. Joan Shelley
Contemporary folk singer with roots in the ’60s folk revival. Joan Shelley’s music reflects the influence of the 1960s folk movement with a modern twist.
Her soothing voice and introspective lyrics have earned her a place among the new folk musicians.
Shelley’s work resonates with audiences looking for authenticity and emotional depth in folk music.
- Famous songs: “Over and Even,” “Stay on My Shore.”
- Awards: Various contemporary folk music awards.
- Years Active: 2010–present.
21. Catherine MacLellan
Daughter of Gene MacLellan, known for her clear voice.
Catherine MacLellan has inherited her father’s songwriting talent and has established herself as a significant presence in the folk music scene.
Her clear, expressive voice and reflective lyrics resonate with a broad audience.
Catherine’s music often explores themes of love, loss, and life in the Canadian landscape, continuing the legacy of her father’s influence on her work.
- Famous songs: “Snowbird,” “The Ties That Bind.”
- Awards: Juno Award for Traditional Roots Album of the Year.
- Years Active: 2000–present.
22. Thea Gilmore
Blends folk with contemporary influences.
Thea Gilmore is known for her sharp, intelligent lyrics and ability to blend traditional folk music with contemporary styles.
Her prolific career has produced a wide array of critically acclaimed albums.
Gilmore’s music is marked by its emotional depth and her skill in addressing modern social issues through the lens of folk traditions.
- Famous songs: “That’ll Be Christmas,” “London.”
- Awards: BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards nominations.
- Years Active: 1998–present.
23. Carolyn Hester
She helped to launch Bob Dylan’s career.
Carolyn Hester was a prominent figure in the 1960s folk revival, known for her strong, clear voice and her interpretations of traditional folk songs.
She played a key role in Bob Dylan’s early career by featuring him as a harmonica player on her recordings.
Hester’s contributions to the folk music scene have been significant, and her influence continues to be recognized.
- Famous songs: “House of the Rising Sun,” “The Water Is Wide.”
- Awards: Lifetime Achievement Award from the American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers (ASCAP).
- Years Active: 1957–present.
24. Shirley Collins
Known for traditional English folk songs. Shirley Collins is a pivotal figure in the English folk music revival.
Her dedication to collecting and performing traditional English songs has preserved a significant part of the country’s musical heritage.
Collins’ pure, unaffected singing style and her collaboration with various musicians have impacted the folk genre.
- Famous songs: “The Blacksmith,” “Just as the Tide Was Flowing.”
- Awards: Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for music services.
- Years Active: 1954–present.
25. Suzzy Roche (of The Roches)
Part of the trio with her sisters Maggie and Terre.
Suzzy Roche and her sisters formed The Roches, a group known for their quirky, harmonic folk songs.
Their unique blend of humor, intricate harmonies, and insightful lyrics set them apart in the folk scene.
Suzzy’s contributions as a singer and songwriter have been integral to the group’s distinctive sound.
- Famous songs: “Hammond Song,” “We.”
- Awards: Various folk music awards and nominations.
- Years Active: 1973–present.
26. Rosalie Sorrels
Storyteller and singer-songwriter.
Rosalie Sorrels was known for her rich storytelling and ability to convey deep emotional experiences through her music.
Her songs often reflected her personal life and broader social and political issues.
Sorrels’ performer and recording artist work has left a significant legacy in the folk community.
- Famous songs: “Travelin’ Lady,” “What Does It Matter.”
- Awards: Lifetime Achievement Award from Folk Alliance International.
- Years Active: 1950s–2017.
27. Judith Durham (of The Seekers)
Lead singer of the Australian folk-pop group.
Judith Durham’s pure, powerful voice was the hallmark of The Seekers, a group that achieved international success in the 1960s.
Their harmonious blend of folk and pop resonated with audiences around the world.
Durham’s contributions to the group’s sound and her solo career have earned her a place in music history.
- Famous songs: “Georgy Girl,” “I’ll Never Find Another You.”
- Awards: Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA) Hall of Fame.
- Years Active: 1963–2019.
28. Dolly Parton
Though known for country, her roots are in folk.
Dolly Parton’s early music was deeply rooted in the folk traditions of her Appalachian upbringing.
Her storytelling ability and distinctive voice have made her one of the most beloved and successful country and folk music artists.
Parton’s influence extends beyond music to philanthropy and business.
- Famous songs: “Coat of Many Colors,” “Jolene.”
- Awards: Numerous Grammy Awards, Country Music Hall of Fame.
- Years Active: 1956–present.
29. Dory Previn
She is known for her introspective and often dark lyrics.
Dory Previn’s music delves into personal and psychological themes, reflecting her life experiences and struggles.
Her candid and often haunting lyrics set her apart in folk music.
Previn’s work has been praised for its emotional honesty and depth, making her a unique voice in the genre.
- Famous songs: “Lady with the Braid,” “The Crooked Christmas Star.”
- Awards: Academy Award nominations for Best Original Song.
- Years Active: 1950s–1990s.
30. Joan Webber
Folk singer with a rich voice and strong storytelling. Joan Webber’s music is characterized by her compelling voice and ability to tell stories through song.
She has a repertoire that includes both traditional folk songs and original compositions.
Webber’s contributions to the folk music scene have been appreciated by audiences who value authentic and heartfelt performances.
- Famous songs: Various traditional and original folk songs.
- Awards: Various folk music awards and recognitions.
- Years Active: 1960s–present.
