Minstrel songs are musical compositions that originated during the medieval period and were performed by troubadours or minstrels. These songs were often accompanied by a lute, harp, or other musical instruments and were sung in a melodious style. Today, the term "minstrel songs" is sometimes used to refer to a particular genre of music, which features a mix of traditional African and European folk melodies. Synonyms for the phrase "minstrel songs" might include "ballads," which are narrative songs that tell a story, or "folk songs," which are expressive songs that reflect the culture and traditions of a particular community. Other possible synonyms could include "work songs," which were songs sung by laborers while they worked, or "protest songs," which express a political or social message.