The artist who first successfully combined folk music and rock music was Bob Dylan. Bob Dylan is a legendary musician known for his influential work in blending folk and rock genres. In the mid-1960s, he transitioned from acoustic folk music to electric rock, a move that sparked controversy but also revolutionized the music industry. Dylan's album "Bringing It All Back Home" in 1965 marked this transition, featuring a mix of folk and rock elements. His fusion of these genres played a significant role in shaping the sound of contemporary music and solidifying his place as a pioneering figure in music history.