FOLKWAYS RECORDS Meaning and
Definition
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Folkways Records is a renowned American record label specializing in the production and distribution of folk music, traditional and ethnic recordings, as well as spoken word and educational recordings. Established in 1948 by Moses Asch, Folkways Records aimed to document and preserve the diversity of cultural expression from around the world, particularly focusing on music and oral traditions that were often marginalized and underrepresented.
The term "folkways" refers to the behavioral norms and practices that are part of everyday life within a particular culture or society. In this context, Folkways Records sought to capture and present the nuanced and often unwritten heritage of various communities, acknowledging the importance of these cultural markers in understanding and appreciating human diversity.
Renowned for its commitment to preserving cultural heritage, Folkways Records released countless albums that showcased a wide range of musical genres and styles, including folk, blues, world music, jazz, and spoken word performances. The label's extensive catalog includes recordings by influential artists such as Woody Guthrie, Pete Seeger, Lead Belly, and Ella Jenkins.
Beyond music, Folkways Records also produced educational recordings, ethnographic documentaries, and even interviews with notable figures in history, science, and politics. This approach served to create an audio archive that offered invaluable insights into the rich tapestry of human culture.
Folkways Records played a vital role in the preservation and dissemination of traditional and indigenous music, contributing to the understanding and appreciation of cultural diversity through recorded sound. While the label is no longer active, its legacy lives on through the Smithsonian Folkways Recordings, which acquired the catalog in 1987 and continues to make these recordings accessible to the public.
Etymology of FOLKWAYS RECORDS
The word "folkways" originally comes from the combination of two terms: "folk" and "ways".
1. Folk: The term "folk" dates back to the Old English word "folc", meaning "people" or "nation". It refers to a community or a group of individuals sharing common traditions, customs, and cultural practices. In the context of "Folkways Records", "folk" specifically refers to traditional music, folklore, and other cultural expressions passed down through generations.
2. Ways: "Ways" refers to the customs, behavior patterns, or traditions specific to a particular group or society. It reflects the idea that human societies have distinct ways of doing things, including their social norms, values, and beliefs.
Putting these two terms together, "folkways" can be understood as the distinctive customs, behaviors, and traditions of a particular folk or community.
