Rooted in Truth: Jensen McRae
When you think of folk music, a few names probably come to mind—Bob Dylan, Tracy Chapman, maybe Phoebe Bridgers. And even if you’re not super familiar with the genre, chances are you’ve heard Folklore, Taylor Swift’s take on folk-inspired storytelling. But there’s a new name you should know: Jensen McRae.
She might be a new face to some, but Jensen has been putting in the work for years, slowly making her way through the music scene. Personally, I think the best artists are the ones who take their time to experiment and grow, and you can really hear that in her music. A lot of artists blow up off one hit and then get stuck chasing that same success, caught in the noise of the industry and public expectations. But Jensen’s journey has been different. She didn’t rise on a viral hit, she built her audience through consistency, authenticity, and a growing collection of meaningful, intentional work.
That’s not to say she isn’t experimenting—because let’s be real, that’s part of being an artist—but the difference is, she doesn’t let the noise pull her away from who she is. Her authenticity shines through. From songs like “White Boy” to “Savannah,” her songwriting remains deeply personal, rooted in vivid storytelling. And while there’s clear growth in her artistry, she’s stayed true to her voice, writing about everything from mental health and social issues to heartbreak and love.
Like many folk artists before her, McRae uses her music to reflect on both personal and political experiences. In a time shaped by the pandemic, heightened political tension, fear rooted in identity, and the collective pursuit of healing, she brings folk music back to its roots: honesty, reflection, and resistance.
By blending introspective lyrics with a modern perspective, Jensen McRae is helping reshape the folk genre. Her storytelling doesn't just fit into folk tradition—it expands it, offering a new sound that is as thoughtful as it is powerful.
