Folk music is a genre of music that has been passed down through generations by word of mouth. It is often based on traditional melodies and lyrics, and it often tells stories about the lives of ordinary people. Folk music can be found in all parts of the world, and it varies greatly from region to region. In the United States, for example, there are many different types of folk music, including bluegrass, country, and blues. In other parts of the world, there are folk music traditions that are based on different instruments and musical styles.