One performer, one instrument.
Some songs need big orchestration. The depth of sound and the play between instruments is an essential part of their character. Others just don’t need anything but a performer and some room to breathe.
They often come out of the many generations of singer/songwriters and traditional performers, but there are surprises out there: songs that were written for or recorded with full bands but take on a new life when stripped down to the very basics. Live performances, early recordings, re-recordings, and covers offer a world of beautiful examples.
What are your stripped-down favorites?