Early Life and Rise to Fame
Benjamin Scott Folds, born September 12, 1966, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, made his mark on the music world with his distinctive blend of alternative rock and piano-driven melodies. After playing in several independent bands in the late 80s and early 90s, Folds became the frontman and pianist of Ben Folds Five in 1993. The trio’s mix of witty lyrics and powerful piano arrangements quickly earned them a devoted fan base. After the band’s breakup in 2000, Folds launched a successful solo career.
Solo Career and Collaborations
Folds has released numerous solo albums, with his most recent, What Matters Most, dropping in June 2023. Throughout his career, he has collaborated with a wide range of artists, from Regina Spektor to “Weird Al” Yankovic. His work also includes experimental projects with actor William Shatner and authors Nick Hornby and Neil Gaiman. Folds’ creative approach has made him one of the most versatile and innovative artists in modern music.
Symphonic Music and Mentorship
Known for his experimental arrangements, Folds often collaborates with symphony orchestras and a cappella groups. He has also contributed to animated film soundtracks, including Hoodwinked! and Over the Hedge. Since May 2017, Folds has served as the first artistic advisor to the National Symphony Orchestra at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., further cementing his reputation as a trailblazer in the music world.
Other Ventures
In addition to his music career, Folds was a judge on NBC’s The Sing-Off from 2009 to 2013. In 2019, he published his memoir, A Dream About Lightning Bugs: A Life of Music and Cheap Lessons, sharing his journey and insights into the music industry.
New Holiday Music
This past October, Folds released his first Christmas album, Sleigher. The album blends original songs with reimagined holiday classics, showcasing his signature style. In this Saturday Sessions performance, Ben Folds delivers the heartfelt “We Could Have This,” a standout track from Sleigher.