23 Sad Folk Songs: Songs That Will Touch Your Soul

Hey everyone, TBone here from Level Tunes, dropping in with something a little different for all you DJs and music lovers out there.

Today, we’re diving into the heart and soul of emotion with a list of 23 sad folk songs.

Now, I know what you’re thinking – “TBone, why the somber tunes?” Well, it’s simple. There’s something profoundly beautiful and universally human about the melancholy that comes through in folk music.

It connects us, tells stories of love, loss, and longing, and reminds us that it’s okay to feel.

So, whether you’re looking to add depth to your sets or just in need of a good, reflective listen, this list is for you.

Let’s explore the artistry and emotion that these tracks bring to the table, and maybe, just maybe, we’ll find a little bit of solace together.

Here are the Sad Folk songs that you can check out:

List Of Sad Folk Songs

Sad Folk songs in a list format:

Sure, let’s dive into some beautifully melancholic folk tunes that have touched hearts around the globe. Each of these songs has a unique story to tell, crafted by incredibly talented artists. Their narratives, melodies, and the emotions they evoke are what make them stand out in the vast landscape of music.

1. “The Night We Met” by Lord Huron

Album: Strange Trails
Year: 2015
Record Label: IAMSOUND Records

Lord Huron’s “The Night We Met” is a hauntingly beautiful track that instantly pulls at the heartstrings. Released in 2015 as part of their album “Strange Trails,” this song has become synonymous with a sense of longing and regret that accompanies lost love. Ben Schneider, the frontman of Lord Huron, weaves a tapestry of nostalgia and sorrow with his evocative lyrics and the band’s ethereal sound. The song gained even more popularity after being featured in the Netflix series “13 Reasons Why,” resonating with a wider audience who found comfort in its melancholic embrace. The reason it’s on this list is simple: it perfectly captures the essence of what it feels like to wish for just one more night with someone who’s slipped away, making it a must-listen for anyone who’s ever loved and lost.

2. “Skinny Love” by Bon Iver

Album: For Emma, Forever Ago
Year: 2007
Record Label: Jagjaguwar

Bon Iver, the project of Justin Vernon, released “Skinny Love” in 2007 on the album “For Emma, Forever Ago.” This song is a raw, stripped-down expression of the frailty and eventual breakdown of a relationship. Recorded in a remote cabin in Wisconsin, the isolation and introspection Vernon experienced are palpable in the song’s sparse arrangement and heartfelt vocals. “Skinny Love” stands out for its ability to convey deep vulnerability and the complexity of holding on to something that’s falling apart. The choice of including this song is due to its profound honesty and the way it touches on the universal experience of a love that can’t sustain itself, yet is difficult to let go.

3. “Holocene” by Bon Iver

Album: Bon Iver, Bon Iver
Year: 2011
Record Label: Jagjaguwar

Another masterpiece by Bon Iver, “Holocene” is from their 2011 self-titled album. This song is an introspective journey, exploring themes of insignificance and personal growth amidst the backdrop of the majestic Holocene era. The beauty of “Holocene” lies in its lyrical complexity and the breathtakingly beautiful instrumentation that accompanies Vernon’s soft, emotive vocals. The song’s title refers to the current geological epoch and metaphorically speaks to the moments that define us as minuscule yet significant parts of a larger narrative. “Holocene” is chosen for its poetic exploration of human existence and the serene acceptance of our place in the universe, making it a song that resonates on a deeply personal level.

4. “Rivers and Roads” by The Head and the Heart

Album: The Head and the Heart
Year: 2011
Record Label: Sub Pop

“Rivers and Roads” is a song by The Head and the Heart from their self-titled debut album released in 2011. This track is a poignant reflection on change and the physical and emotional distances that grow between friends over time. The song builds from a gentle beginning to a powerful crescendo, mirroring the emotional intensity of its subject matter. The harmonies and heartfelt lyrics capture the bittersweet reality of moving forward while holding onto the memories of what once was. The reason for its inclusion is its universal message of transition and the inevitable evolution of relationships, offering a comforting reminder that change, though challenging, is a natural part of life.

5. “Fare Thee Well (Dink’s Song)” by Oscar Isaac and Marcus Mumford

Album: Inside Llewyn Davis (Original Soundtrack Recording)
Year: 2013
Record Label: Nonesuch

Featured in the Coen Brothers’ film “Inside Llewyn Davis,” “Fare Thee Well (Dink’s Song)” is performed by Oscar Isaac and Marcus Mumford. This traditional folk song is given new life through their rendition, capturing the essence of the struggling folk singer’s journey in the early 1960s New York City folk scene. The song’s raw emotional depth and the simplicity of its arrangement highlight themes of loss and longing. It’s chosen for this list because of its timeless quality and the way it beautifully encapsulates the spirit of folk music as a medium for storytelling, connecting past and present through its melancholy melody.

6. “If We Were Vampires” by Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit

Album: The Nashville Sound
Year:

2017
Record Label: Southeastern Records

Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit’s “If We Were Vampires” is a track from their 2017 album, “The Nashville Sound.” This song is a meditation on love, mortality, and the acknowledgment that our time with those we love is finite. Isbell’s writing is poignant and insightful, transforming a hypothetical musing on immortality into a deeper reflection on the value and urgency of love in the face of inevitable loss. The acoustic arrangement, coupled with Isbell’s raw vocal delivery and the harmony provided by Amanda Shires, his wife, adds a layer of intimacy and immediacy to the song. It’s included on this list for its unique perspective on love and death, reminding us to cherish the time we have with our loved ones. The song’s delicate balance between gratitude for love and the sorrow of eventual separation resonates with anyone who’s ever contemplated the impermanence of life.

7. “Casimir Pulaski Day” by Sufjan Stevens

Album: Illinois
Year: 2005
Record Label: Asthmatic Kitty

Sufjan Stevens’ “Casimir Pulaski Day” is a deeply moving narrative song from his 2005 album, “Illinois.” The track tells the story of the narrator’s love interest who dies of bone cancer, set against the backdrop of the titular Illinois holiday. Stevens’ use of banjo, trumpet, and hushed vocals creates a tender yet melancholic atmosphere, allowing the storytelling to take center stage. The song’s beauty lies in its detailed lyricism and Stevens’ ability to evoke a sense of place and emotion, making the listener feel deeply connected to the personal tragedy it describes. This song is chosen for its exquisite storytelling and the emotional depth with which it handles themes of love, loss, and faith, showcasing Stevens’ incredible talent as a songwriter and storyteller.

8. “Elephant” by Jason Isbell

Album: Southeastern
Year: 2013
Record Label: Southeastern Records

“Elephant” by Jason Isbell is a heart-wrenching narrative about a friend dying of cancer, from his 2013 album “Southeastern.” Unlike many songs about illness, “Elephant” doesn’t shy away from the brutal reality of watching someone you care about deteriorate. Isbell’s frankness and the sparse, haunting arrangement allow the song to capture the helplessness and emotional turmoil of its subject matter with brutal honesty. The song is noteworthy for its refusal to romanticize the pain and instead presents a raw, unfiltered look at death and dying. It’s chosen for its powerful storytelling and emotional resonance, as well as Isbell’s ability to confront difficult subjects head-on, making it a standout piece in the realm of folk music.

9. “The Trapeze Swinger” by Iron & Wine

Album: Around the Well
Year: 2009
Record Label: Sub Pop

Sam Beam, under his moniker Iron & Wine, crafted “The Trapeze Swinger” as an epic, reflective piece that delves into memories, regrets, and the longing for redemption. Featured in the 2009 collection “Around the Well,” this song stands out for its poetic lyrics and Beam’s gentle vocal delivery over a simple yet captivating acoustic backdrop. The imagery of the trapeze swinger serves as a metaphor for the fleeting moments of life, with each verse painting a vivid picture of life’s transitory nature. This song is chosen for its lyrical beauty, the depth of its emotional exploration, and its ability to transport the listener through a myriad of life’s scenes, making it a profound listening experience that stays with you long after the song ends.

10. “Blood” by The Middle East

Album: The Recordings of the Middle East
Year: 2009
Record Label: Spunk

The Australian band The Middle East released “Blood” in 2009 on their EP “The Recordings of the Middle East.” This song is a hauntingly beautiful piece that weaves together themes of life, death, and rebirth in a tapestry of folk and post-rock elements. The dynamic shifts in the song, from delicate acoustic passages to soaring instrumental crescendos, mirror the emotional weight of the lyrics, which reflect on the cyclical nature of existence. “Blood” is chosen for its ethereal quality and the way it masterfully blends folk sensibilities with a broader musical landscape, creating an immersive and emotionally charged listening experience. It’s a song that invites introspection and offers a sense of catharsis, making it a perfect inclusion for those seeking depth and beauty in their music.

11. “Pink Moon” by Nick Drake

Album: Pink Moon
Year: 1972
Record Label: Island Records

Nick Drake’s “Pink Moon,” the title track of his 1972 album, is a hauntingly sparse song that encapsulates the essence of melancholy in just over two minutes. Drake’s gentle fingerpicking and soft, whispery vocals create a sense of intimacy and vulnerability. The album, recorded over two nights with Drake performing alone with his guitar, offers a stark contrast to his previous works, showcasing his profound ability to convey deep emotions with minimal instrumentation. “Pink Moon” is chosen for its purity and the poignant beauty it delivers, reflecting Drake’s internal struggles. It serves as a reminder of his genius and the timeless quality of his music, resonating with listeners who find solace in its melancholic yet comforting melody.

12. “In the Aeroplane Over the Sea” by Neutral Milk Hotel

Album: In the Aeroplane Over the Sea
Year: 1998
Record Label: Merge Records

“In the Aeroplane Over the Sea” by Neutral Milk Hotel is an enigmatic song from their 1998 album of the same name. Jeff Mangum’s unique vocal style and the song’s rich, acoustic-led instrumentation blend with surreal, poignant lyrics to create an unforgettable listening experience. The album, a cult classic, delves into themes of love, loss, and existential wonder, with this track standing out for its emotional depth and lyrical beauty. Chosen for its ability to evoke a deep emotional response and its distinctive sound that merges folk with psychedelic and indie rock, this song captivates and inspires, making it a must-listen for anyone exploring the depths of human emotion through music.

13. “The Call” by Regina Spektor

Album: The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian (Soundtrack)
Year: 2008
Record Label: Walt Disney Records

Regina Spektor’s “The Call” is a beautifully uplifting song despite its underlying theme of parting ways. Featured in the soundtrack for “The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian,” it showcases Spektor’s ability to convey powerful emotions through her piano-driven compositions and expressive vocals. The song speaks to the journey of saying goodbye while holding onto hope for the future, making it resonate with anyone who has experienced separation or change. It’s chosen for its poignant message and Spektor’s skillful delivery, which turns a potentially sad farewell into a hopeful beginning, demonstrating the transformative power of music to address universal themes with grace and beauty.

14. “Barton Hollow” by The Civil Wars

Album: Barton Hollow
Year: 2011
Record Label: Sensibility Music/Columbia Records

“Barton Hollow” by The Civil Wars, from their 2011 album of the same name, is not a traditional sad song but carries a haunting atmosphere and lyrical depth that speaks to themes of guilt, redemption, and the human condition. The duo’s harmonies are chillingly beautiful, weaving a dark and compelling narrative that draws listeners into its grip. Chosen for its emotional intensity and the impeccable blend of Joy Williams and John Paul White’s voices, “Barton Hollow” showcases the power of folk music to explore darker, complex emotions with a raw and captivating energy, making it a standout track for those who appreciate the storytelling aspect of music.

15. “Sam Stone” by John Prine

Album: John Prine
Year: 1971
Record Label: Atlantic Records

John Prine’s “Sam Stone” is a heart-wrenching tale of a Vietnam War veteran’s battle with addiction and his eventual downfall. Featured on Prine’s self-titled debut album in 1971, the song’s poignant lyrics and simple, folk-style melody underscore the tragedy of war and its aftermath on soldiers and their families. Prine’s storytelling prowess is on full display, painting a vivid picture of the struggles faced by those forgotten by society. Chosen for its powerful narrative and emotional depth, “Sam Stone” is a sobering reminder of the human cost of conflict, delivered with Prine’s characteristic wit and empathy, cementing its place as a classic in the American folk music canon.

16. “Casmir Pulaski Day” by Sufjan Stevens

Album: Illinois
Year: 2005
Record Label: Asthmatic Kitty

A second mention of “Casmir Pulaski Day” by Sufjan Stevens highlights its significance in the realm of sad folk songs. Its inclusion again underscores the profound impact of Stevens’ storytelling ability and the emotional resonance of his music. This song, with its delicate instrumentation and heartfelt lyrics, stands as a testament to Stevens’ craftsmanship as a songwriter and his capacity to capture the intricacies of human emotion and experience. Its narrative, deeply rooted in personal loss and questioning

faith, offers listeners a space to reflect on their own experiences of grief and the search for meaning in the face of sorrow. Stevens’ use of specific imagery and references to personal and cultural landmarks adds layers of depth, making “Casimir Pulaski Day” a richly textured and moving piece that encourages empathy and introspection. Its repeated inclusion is a nod to its enduring power to touch listeners and its place as a cornerstone of modern folk music, demonstrating how stories of individual pain can resonate universally.

17. “The Lament of Eustace Scrubb” by The Oh Hellos

Album: Through the Deep, Dark Valley
Year: 2012
Record Label: Independent

“The Lament of Eustace Scrubb” by The Oh Hellos is a song inspired by a character from C.S. Lewis’s “The Chronicles of Narnia.” This track, from their 2012 album “Through the Deep, Dark Valley,” combines folk elements with dynamic arrangements to explore themes of redemption and transformation. The song captures the journey of its titular character from pride and isolation to humility and community, mirroring the band’s broader themes of existential questioning and the search for meaning. Chosen for its lyrical storytelling and the emotional arc conveyed through its composition, this song showcases The Oh Hellos’ ability to weave literary references into deeply affecting music, making it a compelling listen for fans of both folk and narrative-rich songwriting.

18. “The Gardener” by The Tallest Man on Earth

Album: Shallow Grave
Year: 2008
Record Label: Gravitation

“The Gardener” by The Tallest Man on Earth, from his 2008 album “Shallow Grave,” is a masterclass in storytelling through song. Swedish singer-songwriter Kristian Matsson, the man behind the moniker, delivers a tale of love and secrecy with his distinctive voice and intricate fingerstyle guitar work. The song’s metaphorical lyrics speak to the lengths one will go to shield their loved ones from the darker parts of themselves, creating a narrative that is as haunting as it is beautiful. Chosen for its poetic craftsmanship and the emotional depth of its performance, “The Gardener” exemplifies the power of folk music to tell complex stories with grace and eloquence, resonating with listeners who appreciate the subtlety of its narrative and the raw honesty of its delivery.

19. “The Trapeze Swinger” by Iron & Wine

Album: Around the Well
Year: 2009
Record Label: Sub Pop

Revisiting “The Trapeze Swinger” by Iron & Wine emphasizes the song’s profound impact and the artist’s significant contribution to the folk genre. Its inclusion again is a testament to the song’s deep narrative and emotional resonance. With its evocative lyrics and Sam Beam’s gentle delivery, the song invites listeners into a reflective journey through memories and the significance of moments passed. Its lyrical depth, coupled with the soft, melodic instrumentation, makes “The Trapeze Swinger” a standout track that captures the essence of introspection and the bittersweet nature of reminiscence. It’s a masterpiece of storytelling that demonstrates Iron & Wine’s ability to craft songs that are both deeply personal and universally relatable, making it a cherished piece in the folk music landscape.

20. “I Will Follow You Into the Dark” by Death Cab for Cutie

Album: Plans
Year: 2005
Record Label: Atlantic Records

“I Will Follow You Into the Dark” by Death Cab for Cutie, from their 2005 album “Plans,” is a tender, acoustic ballad that explores themes of love, mortality, and the afterlife. Ben Gibbard’s soothing vocals and simple guitar accompaniment create a stark, intimate setting for this profound declaration of enduring love beyond death. Chosen for its emotional clarity and the universality of its message, this song touches on the comfort and devotion that love provides in the face of uncertainty. It’s a poignant reminder of the strength of bonds that not even death can sever, resonating deeply with listeners who have contemplated the depth of their own relationships.

21. “Box of Stones” by Benjamin Francis Leftwich

Album: Last Smoke Before the Snowstorm
Year: 2011
Record Label: Dirty Hit

“Box of Stones” by Benjamin Francis Leftwich is a beautifully melancholic song from his 2011 debut album “Last Smoke Before the Snowstorm.” With its delicate guitar work and Leftwich’s whispery vocals, the song conveys a sense of loss and the longing for a past that cannot be reclaimed. Its lyrical simplicity belies the depth of emotion contained within, making it a haunting reflection on memory and the impermanence of life. Chosen for its poignant lyricism and the ethereal quality of its arrangement, “Box of Stones” exemplifies the power of folk music to evoke deep

emotions through minimalistic production, offering listeners a space to reflect on their own experiences of love and loss.

22. “England” by The National

Album: High Violet
Year: 2010
Record Label: 4AD

“England” by The National, from their 2010 album “High Violet,” stands out for its somber beauty and reflective lyrics. This song captures a sense of displacement and longing for connection, set against the backdrop of its namesake country. Matt Berninger’s baritone voice, combined with the band’s rich, layered instrumentation, creates a lush, emotive soundscape that envelops the listener. The song’s exploration of nostalgia, identity, and the concept of home makes it a compelling addition to this list. Chosen for its atmospheric quality and the depth of its introspection, “England” showcases The National’s ability to articulate complex emotions with subtlety and sophistication, resonating with those who have ever felt the pang of being far from what feels like home.

23. “Two” by The Antlers

Album: Hospice
Year: 2009
Record Label: Frenchkiss Records

“Two” by The Antlers is a track from their 2009 album “Hospice,” a concept album that narrates the story of a relationship marred by terminal illness and emotional turmoil. This song, like the rest of the album, delves into themes of care, loss, and the emotional toll of dealing with someone’s suffering. Peter Silberman’s haunting vocals and the ethereal, atmospheric instrumentation paint a vivid picture of the pain and complexity of love under the most harrowing circumstances. Chosen for its heartbreaking narrative and the raw emotion it conveys, “Two” exemplifies the album’s overall strength in storytelling and its capacity to touch on deeply personal and universal themes with grace and poignancy. It’s a profound reflection on the human condition, making “Hospice” a landmark album in the indie folk genre and “Two” a key track that captures its essence.

Fun Facts: Sad Folk Songs

“The Night We Met” by Lord Huron

• Fun Fact: “The Night We Met” gained a massive resurgence in popularity and recognition after being featured in a pivotal dance scene in the Netflix series “13 Reasons Why.” The emotional impact of the scene led to the song becoming an anthem for those experiencing loss and longing, and it subsequently charted on the Billboard Hot 100.

“Skinny Love” by Bon Iver

• Fun Fact: Justin Vernon recorded “Skinny Love” and the rest of the album “For Emma, Forever Ago” in a remote cabin in Wisconsin during a three-month solitary stay. He used this time to recover from illness and a breakup, with the isolation and introspection deeply influencing the album’s raw and emotive sound.

“Holocene” by Bon Iver

• Fun Fact: The song “Holocene” is named after the current geological epoch, which began approximately 11,700 years ago at the end of the last Ice Age. Justin Vernon has mentioned that the song is about the insignificance of the human experience in the context of geological time, yet it also celebrates the beauty of life’s moments.

“Rivers and Roads” by The Head and the Heart

• Fun Fact: “Rivers and Roads” was initially not a hit but became a signature song for The Head and the Heart, gaining popularity over time, especially as it was used in various TV shows and farewell scenes, including the season finale of “How I Met Your Mother,” which helped cement its place in pop culture as a song of departure and change.

“Fare Thee Well (Dink’s Song)” by Oscar Isaac and Marcus Mumford

• Fun Fact: This traditional folk song has been covered by numerous artists over the years, but the rendition by Oscar Isaac and Marcus Mumford for the “Inside Llewyn Davis” soundtrack stands out. The film, which explores the life of a struggling folk musician in the 1960s, features Isaac’s character performing the song, showcasing Isaac’s own musical talent alongside Mumford’s collaboration.

“If We Were Vampires” by Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit

• Fun Fact: “If We Were Vampires” is considered one of Jason Isbell’s most poignant love songs, capturing the idea that love is made more precious by the inevitability of death. Isbell has mentioned that the inspiration came from a conversation with his wife, Amanda Shires, about how their time together is limited, making the song a powerful meditation on mortality and love.

“Casimir Pulaski Day” by Sufjan Stevens

• Fun Fact: The song is named after a holiday in Illinois that celebrates Casimir Pulaski, a Revolutionary War cavalry officer. Sufjan Stevens uses this day as a backdrop for a story about the death of a loved one to bone cancer, blending personal tragedy with the wider history and culture of his home state, which is a recurring theme throughout the “Illinois” album.

“Pink Moon” by Nick Drake

• Fun Fact: “Pink Moon,” Nick Drake’s third and final album before his untimely death at 26, received little commercial attention initially. However, the title track gained significant popularity decades later when it was featured in a Volkswagen Cabrio commercial in 2000, introducing Drake’s music to a new generation of listeners.

“England” by The National

• Fun Fact: “England” showcases The National’s ability to blend personal narratives with broader thematic elements. The song’s melancholic yet grandiose feel captures the band’s experiences of touring and the sense of dislocation from home, with the lyrics reflecting a complex relationship with the notion of England as both a place and an idea.

Diving into these folk songs reveals the profound depth and beauty within music’s ability to convey human emotion. From heartache to hope, each track offers a unique story, inviting us to feel, reflect, and connect on a deeper level. Let the melodies guide you through the rich tapestry of life.

Thanks for reading.

TBone