Singer-songwriter Ben Folds started his musical career in North Carolina. Playing various instruments in various bands, it wasn't till he started playing piano and singing for Ben Folds Five that he would finally claim widespread success. The unique lineup of the band, three musicians and no primary guitarist, and the quirky song writing of Folds led to moderate commercial and great critical success. To this day, Ben Folds Five still has a sizable fan-base and is often cited as an influence to many popular musicians. While still with Ben Folds Five, Fold had an experimental solo album, "Fear of Pop", which featured the likes of William Shatner singing vocals on "In Love." It wasn't until 2001's "Rockin' the Suburbs" that Ben Folds would release a legitimate solo album. Folds used this album as a demonstration of his multi-instrumental skills and played nearly every instrument on the album. This album was followed up by "Ben Folds Live", recorded during a Ben Folds tour that featured only Ben and his piano. People that were lucky enough to get tickets to Ben Folds during this tour got to hear solo versions of many Ben Folds Five favorites, his new work and even previously unreleased work. It was after this album and tour that Ben Folds returned to a familiar trio lineup with "Songs for Silverman." Ben returned to primarily playing piano while being accompanied by bass guitar and drums. This album would also include Weird Al Yankovic providing back-up vocals on the track "Time." Ben Folds also featured the vocals of Cake's John McCrea and most recently Regina Spektor on a track of his most recent album "Way to Normal." "Way to Normal" ended up being Ben Folds' highest-charting debut to date in the US, reaching #11 on the Billboard 200 during its first week. Prior to it's release though, a "leaked" version of the album featuring songs with the same name as album tracks, but being completely different songs that Ben and his band recorded one bored night in Dublin. This sense of humor is typically extended onto the stage where audience participation and other antics are common place. With his amazing music, moving and often humorous lyrics Ben Folds is sure to be a unique experience for concert goers. So be sure to pick up a few Ben Folds tickets for this years tour to treat yourself and or others to a great night of music and fun.
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