Best Roots

Taj Mahal is a living encyclopedia of roots music. His career has been defined by his exploration of the blues in all its forms, from the Delta to the Caribbean and Africa. A multi-instrumentalist wit...

T Bone Burnett's soundtrack for O Brother, Where Art Thou? is a revival of American roots music. Featuring a collection of bluegrass, folk, and country songs performed by various artists, the soundtra...

The Turnpike Troubadours are the kings of the 'Red Dirt' country scene, known for their intricate storytelling and tight, band-focused sound. Their music is a rich tapestry of folk, country, and rock,...

Ry Cooder's 'Chicken Skin Records' is a showcase of his incredible slide guitar skills and deep knowledge of American roots music. The album features a mix of original compositions and traditional blu...

Katie Crutchfield, performing as Waxahatchee, has evolved from a raw, lo-fi indie-rocker into one of the most respected voices in modern Americana and indie-folk. Her music is deeply rooted in Souther...

Jason Isbell is widely regarded as one of the finest songwriters of his generation. His music, often categorized as Americana, is deeply personal, poetic, and socially conscious. Isbell's work explore...

Sturgill Simpson is an experimental force in country music, known for his refusal to be boxed into any single genre. His music ranges from traditional country to psychedelic rock and soul, always anch...

Streetlights (1978) is a pivotal album in Bonnie Raitts career, showcasing her blend of blues, folk, and rock influences. The album features her distinctive slide guitar playing and soulful vocals, ex...

Eric Bibb is a master of the acoustic blues and a gifted storyteller. His music is warm, inviting, and deeply rooted in the folk and blues traditions. With a career that has taken him all over the wor...

This compilation introduces listeners to the vibrant sounds of reggae music. Featuring artists like Bob Marley, Jimmy Cliff, and Toots and the Maytals, it showcases the genre's roots and evolution. Wh...