Listen to American Folk : Exploring a Musical Genre traces the social roots of the genre from its earliest remnants of the oral tradition (both indigenous and transplanted), stressing the continuity of anti-authority and anti-establishment elements of American folk music. While other purely historical studies of folk and American folk music exist, none stresses the social and political basis of the music. It is the author's thesis that the politics of the Folk Revival can be traced to the roots of the genre itself.

Unlike other titles in the series, this volume will concentrate solely on American folk music. Included in the book are the 50 most important musicians, songs, and groups who shaped the American folk movement. Additionally, a background section introduces the genre, and a legacy section shows how American folk has cemented its place in the world. Additionally, another section shows the tremendous impact the music has had on popular culture. This title is a must-have for high school and college readers, as well as folk scholars and fans of the genre.