Brandon Schock is a multi-instrumentalist and songwriter with a lifelong passion for strings - starting with the guitar, expanding into bass, and eventually falling in love with the banjo. Drawn to the unique timbre and cultural roots of stringed instruments, Brandon has spent years exploring styles ranging from psychedelic folk to classic bluegrass.
Equally at home with the melodic bounce of Appalachian banjo rolls or the rhythmic backbone of a bassline, Brandon brings a deep respect for musical tradition and a curiosity for how sounds evolve across genres. His writing on InstruFEST reflects that spirit - helping new players navigate their first instruments and appreciate the rich history behind them.
When not digging into the legacy of roots music, Brandon produces original tracks and contributes to leading music publications, including Higher Hz.
Very few instruments possess the vibrant history and cultural weight of the banjo. From its origins in North Africa and the Caribbean to its prominence in contemporary folk and indie rock, the banjo has played a vital role in structuring the soundscape of American music.
Behind this legacy, of course, are the virtuosos and champions of the banjo who pushed the boundaries of the instrument, reimagining what was possible and inspiring future generations.
The banjo is usually associated with folk and country music, but the instrument’s versatility has led it to be featured in nearly every genre in the world, from jazz and rock to techno.
In this article, I’ll be going over the top 10 most popular banjo songs and famous tunes that garnered widespread recognition in the music industry.
Taking the plunge into the world of banjo playing can be a daunting task. For many, knowing where to start is by far the hardest hurdle to overcome, especially for beginners.
I know how overwhelming it can be at first, so that’s why I’ve created a list of easy banjo songs to get you started.