What's Up in Acoustic Music

Acoustic music is having a real resurgence — not just in folk circles, but across genres, ages, and platforms. In a world full of highly produced digital sound, people are rediscovering the warmth, honesty, and intimacy of wood-and-strings music. Here’s a look at what’s driving the trend and where it’s happening, nationally and right here in southeastern Pennsylvania.

Authenticity is in demand

Listeners are responding to music that feels genuine. Acoustic arrangements let songs breathe, putting the focus back on storytelling and performance.

Artists are blending genres and exploring new venues

From hyperpop to lo-fi to R&B, musicians are experimenting with unplugged versions that give high-energy songs a new emotional depth, and a lot of it is showing up on TikTok.

Folk & Americana are back

Artists like Tim Grimm, Rees Shad, and Alison Krauss & Union Station are topping acoustic and folk charts, signaling a strong renewed interest in roots-based music.

Where Listeners Find Acoustic Sounds

• AcousticMusicScene.com — a reliable snapshot of what’s charting.

• Streaming playlists — “Unplugged,” “Coffeehouse,” “Acoustic Hits,” and more.

• TikTok & Reels — living-room performances and stripped-down covers.

• Local venues & small stages — still the most magical way to hear acoustic music.

Southeastern PA is an Acoustic Hotspot

Southeastern Pennsylvania has become a surprising hub for acoustic music, thanks to its intimate listening rooms and community-centered venues.

Clay on Main's Half Moon Café, where Meadowood Music helps book and host concerts, has included well established and upcoming artists in its 2025 lineup. These are just a few: Mark Cosgrove & Good Medicine  Emme Drago, Craig Bickhardt

The upcoming performance on Nov 21 features a local blues trio that will also be part of the Reading Blues Fest, a county-wide event which kicks off on the 19th, held at multiple venues across Berks County. Their appearance at Clay on Main highlights the region’s natural mix of genres — folk, blues, Americana, jazz, and roots music all coexist on the same small stages.

Other venues shaping the local acoustic scene include:

• Godfrey Daniels (Bethlehem)

• Sellersville Theater (Sellersville)

• SteelStacks / Levitt Pavilion (Bethlehem)

• GoggleWorks Center for the Arts (Reading)

• Miller Center for the Arts (Reading)

These spaces keep live, intimate acoustic music thriving and accessible.

 

The Takeaway

Acoustic music is thriving because it brings listeners closer to the heart of a song. Whether it’s a viral unplugged moment or a night at Clay on Main, people want music that feels real. In southeastern Pennsylvania, you’re surrounded by some of the best places — and people — keeping that spirit alive.