12/14/2025
Why We’re Just Folkin’ Around
In today’s world, music is everywhere—but so much of it feels polished, packaged, and professionalized. Like many creative outlets, singing has drifted from something anyone could do into something people think should be left to “the pros.” If you casually sing a pop song, someone might ask, “Who sings that?”—and then say, “Well, why don’t you let them sing it?” But that misses the point. Music is for everyone. It’s one of the most natural forms of human expression, and it doesn’t need to be perfect—or profitable—to be meaningful.
Some people love singing in a choir, but even that can feel structured and restrictive. Choirs often require auditions, rehearsals, and directors who expect precision. There’s beauty in that discipline—but there’s also joy in singing freely, without rules or judgment.
That’s where We’re Just Folkin’ Around comes in.
We’re a laid-back community of people who simply love to sing. No experience required. No pressure to perform. Just voices coming together for the sheer fun of it.
Our ever-growing song binder is a collection of beloved tunes gathered over two generations of folk music fans and friends. You’ll find traditional ballads, sea shanties, protest songs, spirituals, children’s songs, and even a few classic rock favorites. There’s something for everyone—and if you’ve got a song you love, just bring copies and we’ll add it to the mix!
Since folk music comes from the oral tradition, many songs have multiple versions. When someone nominates a song, they can lead it in their favorite variant—or ask someone else to take the lead. Once we start singing, everyone makes the song their own. Go off-key, try a new style, change registers, sing like a pop star or an opera diva—there’s no wrong way to do it. No one’s keeping score, and there’s no concert to prepare for. The joy is in the moment. Singing, after all, is cheaper than therapy!
While many of our songs are sung a ca****la, there’s usually a guitar in the mix—and if you play an instrument, feel free to bring it along for some freestyle accompaniment.
We meet on the first Tuesday of each month from 6:30–8:30 PM at Muso, 2040 Winnebago St., Madison, WI 53704.
Come as you are—everyone is welcome!
So, do you like to sing without judgment?
Do you enjoy exploring what your voice can do?
Join We’re Just Folkin’ Around and find a community that celebrates the joy of singing together.
Lyrics provided. Instruments welcome. Talent optional.
And remember:
If you’re singing
…the same note I am, and it sounds good, that’s great—it’s called unison.
…a different note, and it sounds good, that’s great—it’s harmony.
…a different note, and it doesn’t sound good, that’s great—it’s jazz.
…the same note, and it still doesn’t sound good, that’s great—it’s Irish!
— Adapted from Emma Bull via Steven Brust
Just sing along!
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