Singer-songwriter

Woody_Guthrie_2

Joan_Baez_Bob_Dylan_crop

Joni_Mitchell_1983

HankWilliams1951concert

Paul_Simon_at_the_9-30_Club_(b)

Error creating thumbnail:

James_taylor_publicity_photo

Carole_King

Musician who writes, composes, and performs their own musical material

  [[File:|frameless|alt=]]

Native name
Etymology
Other names
Stylistic origins	Folk, pop, rock, country, blues
Cultural origins	1960s, United States, United Kingdom
Typical instruments	Vocals, acoustic guitar, piano, harmonica
Derivative forms	Indie folk, folk rock, pop rock

A singer-songwriter is a musician who writes, composes, and performs their own musical material, including lyrics and melodies. Singer-songwriters often provide the sole accompaniment to an entire composition or song, typically using a guitar or piano.

History

The term "singer-songwriter" gained popularity in the 1960s and 1970s, although the practice of writing and performing one's own songs dates back much further. Early examples include Woody Guthrie and Hank Williams, who were influential in the development of the genre. The 1960s saw a significant rise in the popularity of singer-songwriters, with artists like Bob Dylan, Joni Mitchell, and Leonard Cohen leading the way.

Characteristics

Singer-songwriters are known for their personal and introspective lyrics, often drawing from their own experiences and emotions. The music typically features simple, acoustic arrangements, although some artists incorporate more complex instrumentation and production techniques. The genre spans a wide range of musical styles, including folk, pop, rock, and country.

Notable Singer-Songwriters

• Bob Dylan
• Joni Mitchell
• Leonard Cohen
• Carole King
• James Taylor
• Paul Simon
• Neil Young
• Bruce Springsteen
• Tori Amos
• Ed Sheeran

Influence and Legacy

Singer-songwriters have had a profound impact on the music industry, influencing countless artists across various genres. Their emphasis on lyrical content and personal expression has inspired generations of musicians to write and perform their own material. The genre continues to evolve, with contemporary artists blending traditional singer-songwriter elements with modern production techniques and diverse musical influences.

Related Pages

• Folk music
• Pop music
• Rock music
• Country music
• Blues
• List of singer-songwriters
• Indie folk
• Folk rock
• Pop rock