A Complete Unknown hit theatres on Dec. 25, 2024, giving audiences an overview of the complicated life of Bob Dylan. As Dylan would say, this movie “struck me to the ground”, having already watched it three times. In awe of the cinematography, acting, Timothee Chalamet’s intensive preparation for the role, and the in-depth plot, I found so many factors of this film to be truly incredible. But what stood out to me the most was the music. Unaware of Dylan’s songs before screening the film, I was opened up to a whole new world of folk. Folk music became popular in America in the 1960s, with musicians using their voices and guitars to advocate equality and peace during a period of racial segregation. The film included the stories of many of these key folk artists, and ever since my first viewing, I have been obsessed with them. Below is a list of three folk artists featured in A Complete Unknown that I highly recommend checking out.
Joan Baez
One of the main characters in the movie, Joan Baez, has become one of my favorite artists. Baez has such an incredibly strong voice that no instrument is required for her to create powerful music. She has a wide vocal range and is able to reach operatic tones. She released a phenomenal cover of the song “House of the Rising Sun” in which she shifted down a key, giving off an eerie, emotional rendition. One of her most popular songs, “Diamonds and Rust,” is about her on-and-off relationship with Bob Dylan, providing insight into her emotions towards this tempestuous situation. Her original song “There But for Fortune” stays on theme with social and political activism as she discusses the problems in the world around her. Baez is a truly talented vocalist with the ability to overwhelm a listener with emotion in every note.
Woody Guthrie
Known as one of the most influential voices in folk, Woody Guthrie is a truly inspirational character. His most popular song is “This Land is Your Land,” which is typically taught in elementary schools around the country. His music preaches inclusion and social change, like in his song “Tear the Fascists Down”. Guthrie was very popular in the 1940s, as he spoke up about economic struggles and the effects of the Dust Bowl. The song “I Ain’t Got No Home In This World” is one of my personal favorites with its several guitar riffs and sections of harmonicas. His typical folk voice and impressive guitar skills left lasting impressions on those who listened.
Pete Seeger
Being one of the main founders of the Newport Folk Festival, Pete Seeger’s life goal was to spread social equality through folk music. Known for having a truly kind heart and yearning to help others, Seeger helped many with his music. Unlike the others on this list, Seeger played the banjo instead of a guitar. Seeger was targeted by the House Un-American Activities Committee during the Red Scare, placing him in several court trials fighting for his reputation. His fight for inclusiveness was misconstrued as an advocacy for communism, but this did not stop him from fighting for equality. His famous songs “We Shall Overcome” and “Which Side Are You On” inspired people all around the world to stand up and take action for social justice. Seeger’s music was truly influential during this time, and his actions left lasting effects on the folk community as a whole.
These artists are just a few of many greats. The genre of folk is truly a special one as it empowers its listeners to take action. A Complete Unknown highlighted many aspects of this movement and featured even more incredible artists. If you have not yet watched it, I highly recommend you to view this film and tune in to some of these musicians.
