Definition: The term, "folk song,"

Definition: The term, "folk song," covers a vast array of musical styles, from traditional country and western to Cajun and Zydeco; Appalachian music to the songs of the urban diaspora. Academically and within the tradition of American folk music, a folk song is one that uses traditional melodies and/or modes to speak on a particular topic. Often, topical folk songs address social and political issues such as work, war, and popular opinion; although not all folk songs are topical or political. Some are personal dirges or ballads about family stories, love songs, or even nonsense songs.