A
Here's a look at some of the most influential artists who have tried their hand at American folk music .
Woody Guthrie
The original folk singer/songwriter， Woody Guthrieset the precedent (先例) for the breadth of issues about what an American folk singer could sing. His lyrics told us about many important issues of his time， and of America in general . They were told in plain and simple language that put what so many people were thinking and feeling into words .
Bob Dylan
Bob Dylan innovated (革新) the modern music world by including old folk， blues, and other forms of Americana into songs that were both timely and timeless . He was the darling of the folk revivalists in the early 1960s； but after using an electric guitar in his performance at the 1965 Newport Folk Festival，his reputation came under fire from the folkies. It was a small matter , though一Dylan had along career that included music, books, movies, and a radio show .
Joni Mitchell
The Canadian female singer probably never meant to be as popular as she eventually became . Originally a painter and poet， Mitchell created an incredible career for herself in the late1960s and early 1970s. Her sweet melodies inspired numerous women to enter the folk singer/songwriter community and continue to do so today.
Bill Monroe
Bill Monroe led the bluegrass movement of the 1950s. Along with his Blue Grass Boys，he set a precedent for all bluegrass ers. He mixed some aesthetics(美学) of country-western music with vocal harmonies , bluegrass instruments，and his high lonesome voice . Many bluegrass bands today compare themselves to Monroe 's original line-up，and several of his bandmates have gone on to enjoy successful careers of their own.
21.What's the feature of Woody Guthrie's lyrics?
A.They focus on his emotions.
B.They have very complex language.
C.They involve important subjects of his time.
D.They have been influenced by other kinds of music.
22.Whose melodies encouraged many women to become a folksinger?
A.Bob Dylan's. B.Bill Monroe's. C.Joni Mitchell's. D.Woody Guthrie's.
23.What do the four people have in common?
A.They all once led a musical movement.
B.They all had a great influence on folk music.
C.They all once suffered from a bad reputation.
D.They were all singers rather than songwriters.
