Ben Folds

Ben Folds, born on September twelfth, nineteen sixty-six, is a celebrated American singer-songwriter and musician known for his distinctive blend of pop and rock. He first gained recognition as the frontman and pianist of the alternative rock trio Ben Folds Five, which rose to prominence in the early nineties and continued to captivate audiences until the group's initial disbandment in two thousand. The band reunited from two thousand eleven to two thousand thirteen, further solidifying Folds' status in the music industry.

Throughout his career, Folds has released a series of solo albums, with his most recent work, Sleigher, set to debut in two thousand twenty-four. His collaborations with a diverse array of artists, including Regina Spektor, 'Weird Al' Yankovic, and the ensemble yMusic, showcase his versatility and willingness to experiment with different musical styles. Notably, he has also engaged in unique songwriting projects alongside actor William Shatner and renowned authors like Nick Hornby and Neil Gaiman.

Folds' innovative approach to music has led him to perform with symphony orchestras and a cappella groups, creating arrangements that challenge the norms of rock and pop instrumentation. His contributions to film soundtracks, such as those for Hoodwinked! and Over the Hedge, further highlight his multifaceted talent. Additionally, he produced Amanda Palmer's debut solo album, Who Killed Amanda Palmer, released in two thousand eight.

From two thousand nine to two thousand thirteen, Folds served as a judge on NBC's a cappella singing competition, The Sing-Off, showcasing his expertise in vocal performance. In July two thousand nineteen, he published his memoir, A Dream About Lightning Bugs, offering fans a glimpse into his life and creative journey. Folds also held the position of artistic advisor to the National Symphony Orchestra at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., from two thousand seventeen until two thousand twenty-five.