The traditional songs, dances, and legends of ordinary people in the United States have long served as a means of communication and a source of entertainment. Each group brought its unique song and dance music to America: The Irish brought jigs and reels, the African-American slaves work and dance songs, Hispanics their corridors and polkas, Cajuns their waltzes and two-steps. The interaction between these groups created the many rich hybrids that are American folk music. Featuring 36 photographs, a glossary, discography, and chronology, ""American Popular Music: Folk"" is an essential resource on this vital and influential American artform. The entries include: The Archive of American Folk Song; Moses Asch; Joan Baez; Harry Chapin; Bob Dylan; Fairport Convention; Woody Guthrie; The Irish Rovers; John and Alan Lomax; Eck Robertson; Pete Seeger; Townes Van Zandt; Lucinda Williams; John W. Work; and many others.

Foreword by: Ronald D. Cohen