Folk music in Scotland is the culture of the native population preserving through music and song their relationship with the environment and each other. For over 8,000 years the landmass of Scotland has been populated by communities thar have managed to preserve traditions by adhering to a system of transmitting cultural sentiment and styles orally. In folk music are retained the old stories of tribal ideas that link the present with the past for future generations.

Echo's of history can be heard in tunes played in pubs and social gatherings. Arguably the most popular folk song of all time is 'Auld Lang Syne,' a tune sang in celebration globally at New Year as a tribute to the experience the past has given, and also a respectful welcome to an unknown future. Though attributed to the poet Robert Burns in the late 18th century the song was modeled on earlier versions that had been around for many years. Another Burns song 'Scots Wha Hae' was according to legend put to 'Hey Tuttie Tattie', a tune believed sung by Robert the Bruce's 'common army' at the battle of Bannockburn in 1314. One can only speculate how long the tune may have existed prior to the 14th century.

In the 21st century Scotland's ancient heritage of folk music continues to be celebrated. Since the early 90's a renaissance has taken place in Scottish folk culture as young musicians taking the mantle of their forebears have formed into an array of energetic groups that combine old folk instruments and tunes with modern world influences. Many of the modern festivals would not be complete without these vibrant 'ceilidh' bands setting hearts and feet beating to a blend of what's great about the past with the good of today. Scotland's folk music is a unique inheritance that has inspired many luminaries from Bruce to Beethoven, Bob Dylan and many modern stars. It is the immortal soul of Scotland heard at; ceilidh's, festivals, concert halls, pubs, recordings or wherever in the world the Scottish spirit gathers. Enjoy.

1. Robert Burns
2. John Martyn
3. Eddi Reader
4. Michael Marra
5. Karen Matheson
6. Billy Connolly
7. Dougie MacLean
8. Dick Gaughan
9. The Corries
10. Aly Bain
11. The Waterboys
12. Karine Polwart
13. Run Rig
14. Capercaillie
15. Donovan
16. Old Blind Dogs
17. Alexander Brothers
18. Peatbog Faeries
19. Matt McGinn
20. Bert Jansch
21. Annie Grace
22. Incredible String Band
23. Sheila Stewart
24. Donnie Munro
25. Shooglenifty
26. Sheena Wellington
27. Jimmy MacGregor
28. Brian McNeil
29. Alasdair Fraser
30. Eric Bogle
31. Gavin Marwick
32. Danny Kyle
33. Donald Shaw

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