Arts >> Music >> Bands & Artists

How to Start a Folk Punk Band

The Pogues and the Violent Femmes were the pioneers of folk punk music. However, the genre of folk punk is quite diverse. One thing the bands share in common is a general punk rock attitude and aesthetic, but a musical palette that includes everything from the jug and string bands of the 1930s and bluegrass, to contemporary songwriters ranging from Bob Dylan to Steve Earle. The instrumentation is also diverse. It may include electric guitars and drums or it may involve acoustic instruments such as accordion, banjo and fiddle. The first step in forming your own band is to develop a musical vision, then find fellow musicians who can help bring it to fruition.

Instructions

    • 1

      Put a musician-wanted ad in the local music paper. Write a brief description of the type of music that you are striving for -- listing musical influences helps clarify your goals and aspirations. List the types of instruments you are searching for, such as upright bass, mandolin, washboard and so forth. Provide a name and contact information.

    • 2

      Play open-mike nights at local venues. Put together a few songs, originals or covers, and raise your profile and visibility by playing at open mikes. This is a good way to meet like-minded musicians. Search for clubs and night spots that are sensitive to the folk punk aesthetic.

    • 3

      Put up fliers in local coffeehouses and record stores advertising for musicians. Record stores and coffeehouses are also good places to search for musicians who are into the folk punk genre. Make your flier eye-appealing and attention-grabbing. Cynicism and humor are common themes in folk punk music. A well-constructed flier gives potential bandmates a glimpse into your personality and tastes.

Bands & Artists

Related Categories