Introduction
Are you yearning to express your dissatisfaction with the system, but find yourself on a budget? Do you live in a small industrial city that feels like a shallow grave? Do you want to sing about communism at open mic bars? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then folk punk is for you! In this article, we will guide you through the process of creating your own folk punk music, even if you have no prior musical experience.
Understanding Folk Punk
Folk punk is an energetic genre that combines the raw and artistic elements of punk rock with folk music. It originated in the 80s with artists like Patrick Fitzgerald and the Violent Femmes. Other influential bands include The Velvet Underground and The Pogues. In the 90s, the record label Planet X Record published many well-known folk punk artists such as AJJ and Against Me.
Getting Started
To begin your folk punk journey, all you need is an acoustic guitar and a passion for singing. If you want to add some variety to your sound, you can also incorporate instruments like the ukulele, banjo, accordion, percussion, or even a washtub bass. Experimenting with different instruments can help you create a unique folk punk sound.
Learning the Basics
When it comes to playing folk punk, you don’t need to be a virtuoso. Learning a few simple chords and chord progressions is all you need to get started. Most folk punk songs use one of three common chord progressions. These progressions can be played with any number of variations in speed and tempo. It’s that simple!
Getting the Look
Folk punk is not just about the music, it’s also a lifestyle and aesthetic. When it comes to your appearance, you can choose to dress like a typical punk or embrace a more farmer-inspired look. For band names, choose something that reflects your identity and add a unique twist to it. The album cover should be eye-catching, whether it’s a weird and creepy drawing or a nostalgic old photo.
Writing Lyrics
Lyrics are the heart and soul of folk punk music. Use your songs as a platform to express your thoughts and feelings about topics that matter to you. You can write about your favorite hobbies, your political beliefs, or even darker subjects like murder, alcoholism, and depression. Folk punk lyrics can be light-hearted and fun or introspective and thought-provoking. The choice is yours.
Political Views and Folk Punk
Folk punk is often associated with left-leaning political views, anarchism, and support for anti-fascism and LGBTQ+ rights. Right-wing folk punk is rare, as the genre thrives on having “good opinions” and challenging the status quo. This political alignment is part of what makes folk punk such a powerful and rebellious genre.
Recording Your Music
One of the most appealing aspects of folk punk is the DIY and lo-fi aesthetic. Thanks to modern technology, you don’t need expensive recording equipment to create your own music. You can simply use a smartphone or a basic microphone to record your songs. Embrace the imperfections and keep your recordings raw and authentic.
Filming a Music Video
To complete your folk punk experience, consider filming a music video in a visually striking and emotionally charged location. Find a place that reflects the themes and mood of your song. This can be an abandoned building, a desolate street, or any other place that evokes a sense of melancholy and rebellion.
Conclusion
Creating folk punk music is a powerful way to express your discontent with the system and make your voice heard. You don’t need fancy equipment or advanced musical skills to create compelling and impactful songs. By following this step-by-step guide, you can become a folk punk artist and join a vibrant community of like-minded individuals. So grab your guitar, write some lyrics, and let your folk punk journey begin!
