Storytelling

Storytelling music emerged in the 1960s, mainly in folk circles, where artists realised that narrating a good yarn could be just as captivating as belting out a power ballad, and often a lot less sweaty. It’s characterised by lyrics that unfold narratives, sometimes more elaborate than a soap opera plot, with melodies serving as the gentle backdrop to what could easily be a fine evening around the fire with a cup of tea. This charming genre has produced songs that can make you laugh, cry, or ponder life’s mysteries, proving that if you’ve got a story worth telling, all you need is a catchy tune and an attentive audience—preferably without smartphones in sight.