Basic Folk

Basic Folk features honest conversations with folk musicians hosted by Cindy Howes and Lizzie No. We approach interviews with warmth, humor and insightful questions. Since 2018, this podcast has dignified under the radar roots musicians by providing a platform that they might not otherwise have. You’ll hear interviews from Three-time Grammy-winning guitar gods like Molly Tuttle, Haitian American folk legends like Leyla McCalla and deep feelers like songwriter John Hiatt.

Basic Folk is dedicated to showcasing the best in folk, bluegrass, acoustic and americana including Black, Brown and Queer folx who have been excluded, or felt like they did not belong, in the folk world. Cindy & Lizzie each bring a unique perspective to these honest conversations with folk musicians. We are equally dedicated to repainting the broad landscape of folk music as we are to tearing down the ivory towers of the music industry. What would Bruce Springsteen do if he ever got the keys to that mansion on the hill? Let's find out together on Basic Folk.

Basic is an official production of The Bluegrass Situation. Thanks for listening.

Welcome to Basic Folk.

Follow Basic Folk on social media: https://basicfolk.bio.link/

Help produce Basic Folk by contributing: https://basicfolk.com/donate/

Interested in sponsoring us? Contact BGS: https://bit.ly/sponsorBGSpods

Recent Episodes

Episodes loading...

Recent Reviews

Velonwy

Insightful, deep, and playful

I adore Basic Folk’s interviews: the work that the hosts put into researching their guests and coming up with unique, interesting questions is apparent. I have become an avid listener, and I’m excited to discover more fascinating folk musicians through this podcast!
Aanwadecescakl799

Kara Jackson

Amazing episode!
DJ John NY

Cindy’s interviews…

…are as good as it gets - full of info and insight with a personal touch!
Tina Bobeana

So freakin' good

As a folk musician myself, I love Cindy's approach to these interviews. She seems to have a way of making the musician's interviewed very comfortable. She asks very interesting questions and I love love love her casual tone. Plus, she picks the best people to interview. Thank you Cindy for giving folk lovers some really fun behind the scenes yumminess to chew on.
Tdnbunny

The best

Cindy is the best. This podcast is the best.
Edie Carey

Cindy rules

I admit I've known Cindy for years, and I'm also featured on the podcast, so hell yes, I'm biased...but the truth is she is one of the smartest, most insightful interviewers out there. She really does her homework and asks truly interesting questions -- aaaand she's totally hilarious. One of the most enjoyable interviews I've ever done, and I'm loving listening to her interviews with so many of my songwriting heroes. Go, Cindy! 🙌🏼🙌🏼
Hillbilly Pilgrim

Long-time fan

I’m biased, as I’ve known Cindy a long time and I’m episode 6, but I’m a devoted fan.
Scotty Pittsburgh

A Plus

Cindy is THE BEST! I listened to her on WYEP in Pittsburgh for twelve years and now I follow her podcast. Very enlightening for music lovers. And FUN!
Rikki June

Love this new podcast!

Cindy has major experience as an interviewer and that shines through every moment of this series. It is wonderful to see her stretching her legs into a long format interview and really diving deep with her guests, producing relatable content not just about the music but also the creative lives of the musicians. Her easy conversational style and deep love for folk music combine to make a highly enjoyable experience in this new podcast, Basic Folk. I highly recommend you check it out!
MattBaume

Hooray!

It is always a delight to listen to Cindy and I'm so happy she has this podcast! I'm not super knowledgeable about music but I don't have to be to enjoy the show -- Cindy's enthusiasm and expertise make her a great musical guide.
Wats000

Oh, this is great!

If you love folk music or are interested in learning about and listening to the most relevant and dope folk acts today, listen to this podcast. Cindy Howes’ is a genuine and lovable conversationist and her love and knowledge of music shines through.
Zach Tenorio

Four thumbs up!

Cindy Howes is funny, entertaining and knowledgeable beyond belief! Highly recommended for any music lover.
Excellent Indie Folk

A+

THE podcast for Millennial folk. THAT WAS A PUN!
Howesfam

A Natural Interviewer

Cindy is a natural when it comes to interviewing her guests she is very knowledgeable about the artist and their music. Can’t wait to hear who will be next on this podcast. ❤️
lindsayraemyers

Highly Anticipated Deep Dives With Artists

Cindy Howes has created a podcast whose scope is sure to excite folk and americana lovers! She has both a wide and granular knowledge of this music scene with a welcoming interviewing presence while still diving beneath the information and interviews fans may have heard before. Definitely an exciting new addition to the landscape, I can't wait to hear more!