Folkways Records

Folkways Records was a pioneering American record label founded in 1948 by Moses Asch. It specialized in recording and preserving a wide range of traditional, folk, blues, world, and indigenous music from around the globe. Known for its extensive and diverse catalog, Folkways aimed to document cultural sounds often overlooked by mainstream labels. In 1987, it was acquired by the Smithsonian Institution, which continues to preserve and promote its archival recordings. Folkways played a crucial role in shaping the preservation and appreciation of folk and world music, making these sounds accessible to a broad audience.