Folkways Records was founded in 1948. Led by Moses Asch (1905-1986), Folkways sought to document the entire world of sound. The 2,168 titles Asch released on Folkways include traditional and contemporary music from around the world, spoken word in many languages, and documentary recordings of individuals, communities, and current events. Folkways grew to be one of the largest and most influential record companies in the world. Folkways Records and the label's business papers and files were acquired by the Smithsonian Institution in 1987. Every recording is kept in print.

A few recordings from Folkways Records. Click here for more.

Sweet Thunder: Black Poetry by Nancy Dupree

Nancy Dupree

FW09787 (1977)

This live recording of Nancy DuPree's poetry creates more an atmosphere of storytelling than of reciting...

Woody's Story: As Told by Will Geer and Sung by Dick Wingfield

Will Geer and Dick Wingfield

FW02930 (1973)

Refer to the album's Liner Notes for more information.

Electronic Music

University of Toronto Electronic Music Studio

FW33436 (1967)

Refer to the album's Liner Notes for more information.

Koto: Music of the One-string Ichigenkin

Isshi Yamada

FW08746 (1967)

Refer to the album's Liner Notes for more information.

Jewish Folk Songs

Ruth Rubin

FW08740 (1959)

Refer to the album's Liner Notes for more information.