Live Performances by Ben Folds Five
Ben Folds Five Performs 'Underground' Live on NBC's Late Night With Conan O'Brien
NBC's Late Night With Conan O' Brien
New York City, NY, United States
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In December 1995, Ben Folds Five was on the cusp of experiencing a surge in popularity, following the release of their self-titled debut album earlier... Read Full Description >
In December 1995, Ben Folds Five was on the cusp of experiencing a surge in popularity, following the release of their self-titled debut album earlier that year. The live performance of "Underground" on NBC's Late Night with Conan O'Brien served as a significant promotional moment for the band, showcasing their unique blend of pop and rock with an emphasis on piano-driven melodies. This televised appearance was pivotal as it helped to elevate their visibility and garnered them a broader audience. Interestingly, despite being relatively new to the mainstream, their energetic and engaging live performances quickly established a strong connection with fans, reinforcing their reputation as an innovative force in alternative rock. The band's charisma and talent during this era laid the groundwork for their future successes, including their subsequent album, "Whatever and Ever Amen," which would further solidify their place in music history.
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In January 1996, the live recording of "Philosophy" by Ben Folds Five captures the band during a pivotal moment in their career. At this time, they ha... Read Full Description >
In January 1996, the live recording of "Philosophy" by Ben Folds Five captures the band during a pivotal moment in their career. At this time, they had recently released their self-titled debut album, which came out in 1995 and showcased their unique blend of alternative rock and piano-driven melodies. "Philosophy" was a standout track, highlighting their witty lyrics and energetic performance style. The band was gaining momentum, enjoying increased attention from both audiences and critics, which would eventually lead to their significant rise in popularity. Notably, the performance on the Later Archive features not just their musical talents but also the dynamic stage presence that characterized their live shows. This period marked the beginning of their journey into the mainstream, leading to further albums and lasting acclaim in the years to come.
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In November 1996, when Ben Folds Five performed "Song for the Dumped" live on the Dutch music show "2 Meter Sessies," they were experiencing significa... Read Full Description >
In November 1996, when Ben Folds Five performed "Song for the Dumped" live on the Dutch music show "2 Meter Sessies," they were experiencing significant momentum following the release of their second studio album, "Whatever and Ever Amen," earlier that same year. This album included hit singles such as "Battle of Who Could Care Less" and the popular "Brick." Interestingly, "Whatever and Ever Amen" showcased the band's unique blend of alternative rock and pop sensibilities, marked by Folds' distinctive piano-driven sound and candid, often introspective lyrics. The band was riding high on the success of their breakthrough singles and building a dedicated fan base, further solidified by their energetic live performances as evidenced in this recording. Their style, characterized by both humor and emotional depth, resonated well during this period, contributing to their iconic status in the '90s music scene.
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In November 1996, when Ben Folds Five recorded their session for "2 Meter Sessies" in Amsterdam, they were nearing the release of their breakthrough a... Read Full Description >
In November 1996, when Ben Folds Five recorded their session for "2 Meter Sessies" in Amsterdam, they were nearing the release of their breakthrough album, "Whatever and Ever Amen," which came out in March 1997. This period marked a significant turning point in their career as they were gaining recognition in the alternative rock scene. The band's unique blend of piano-driven melodies and witty lyrics had begun to resonate with a broader audience, particularly with the lead single "Brick," which later became a hallmark of their identity. Live recordings from this era showcase their energetic performances and the distinctive sound that would soon catapult them into mainstream success. Additionally, during this time, the band was known for their engaging stage presence and humorous banter, elements that were likely evident in this live performance.
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On February 3, 1997, Ben Folds Five performed a live recording of "Battle of Who Could Care Less" in Yokohama, Japan. This performance comes shortly a... Read Full Description >
On February 3, 1997, Ben Folds Five performed a live recording of "Battle of Who Could Care Less" in Yokohama, Japan. This performance comes shortly after the release of their second studio album, "Whatever and Ever Amen," which debuted in March 1997 and featured hit singles like "Brick." By this point in their career, the band was gaining significant recognition for their unique blend of alternative rock and catchy pop melodies, establishing themselves as a prominent act in the 1990s music scene. An interesting fact related to this live performance is that "Battle of Who Could Care Less" showcases the band's hallmark witty lyrics and energetic piano-driven sound, which helped to define their style. The band's unique approach to songwriting and engaging live performances contributed to their growing popularity during this era.
Ben Folds Five - 'Battle of Who Could Care Less' Live Performance on Conan
Conan O'Brien Show
New York, NY, United States
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In June 1997, Ben Folds Five was in the midst of their rising popularity following the release of their successful self-titled debut album in 1995 and... Read Full Description >
In June 1997, Ben Folds Five was in the midst of their rising popularity following the release of their successful self-titled debut album in 1995 and their sophomore effort, "Whatever and Ever Amen," which came out in 1997. The live performance of "Battle of Who Could Care Less" on Conan O'Brien showcased the band's signature blend of piano-driven rock and clever, introspective lyrics. It was part of an era where they were gaining substantial recognition in the alternative rock scene. Notably, the band was known for its engaging live performances, and this particular television appearance contributed to their growing fan base. The song itself, characterized by a catchy melody and thoughtful critique of apathy, resonated with the band's ethos during this vibrant phase of their career. This performance helped cement Ben Folds Five's place in the 1990s music landscape, further reflecting their unique sound that combined humor and emotional depth.
Ben Folds Five Live at Queens College - Full Concert
Queens College
Queens, NY, United States
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On December 5, 1997, Ben Folds Five performed a live show at Queens College, capturing a significant moment during their career. At this time, the ban... Read Full Description >
On December 5, 1997, Ben Folds Five performed a live show at Queens College, capturing a significant moment during their career. At this time, the band was riding the momentum from their critically acclaimed album "Whatever and Ever Amen," which had been released earlier that year. The album featured some of their most recognized hits, including "Brick" and "Va deje." The live recording from the Queens College concert reflects the band's energetic presence and showcases their unique blend of pop and piano-driven rock, which resonated with a growing fanbase. Furthermore, this performance came just before the band took a hiatus from 2000 to 2008, making the show a rare glimpse into their artistic expression during a crucial period in their evolution. Interestingly, Ben Folds Five's ability to blend catchy melodies with often introspective lyrical content was a hallmark of their style, contributing to their lasting influence in the alternative music scene.
Ben Folds Five Performance of 'Brick' on Letterman at The Ed Sullivan Theater
The Ed Sullivan Theater
New York, NY, United States
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On December 17, 1997, Ben Folds Five performed on "The Late Show with David Letterman" at the iconic Ed Sullivan Theater. At this point in their caree... Read Full Description >
On December 17, 1997, Ben Folds Five performed on "The Late Show with David Letterman" at the iconic Ed Sullivan Theater. At this point in their career, the band was riding high on the success of their album "Whatever and Ever Amen," released earlier that year. This album featured hit singles like "Brick" and "Song for the Dumped," which showcased their unique blend of alternative rock and witty lyrics. Their performance on Letterman highlighted their rising popularity and the band's dynamic presence on stage. An interesting fact about this era is that "Brick," a song from the album, dealt with themes of heartbreak and personal struggle, resonating deeply with listeners and contributing to the band's cult following. The performance on Letterman not only solidified their foothold in the music scene but also introduced them to a broader audience, further establishing their influence in the alternative rock genre.
Ben Folds Five - Hard Rock Live Full Concert (1998)
The Joint at the Hard Rock Hotel
Las Vegas, NV, United States
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In May 1998, Ben Folds Five performed at The Joint at the Hard Rock Hotel in Las Vegas, capturing a moment in their career shortly after the release o... Read Full Description >
In May 1998, Ben Folds Five performed at The Joint at the Hard Rock Hotel in Las Vegas, capturing a moment in their career shortly after the release of their second studio album, "Whatever and Ever Amen," which came out in March 1997. This album featured widely recognized tracks such as "Brick" and "Song for the Dumped," which played a significant role in establishing their presence in the alternative rock scene. By the time of the VH1 live recording, the band was enjoying heightened popularity, and their music was gaining critical acclaim for its blend of piano-driven rock and introspective lyrics. Notably, their performance showcased their energetic stage presence and intricate musicianship, further solidifying their reputation as a leading band of the late '90s. The recording aired later that summer, highlighting the band's ongoing connection with their audience through live music, which remained a key part of their artistic identity.
Ben Folds Five Performs 'Army' on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno
The Tonight Show with Jay Leno
Los Angeles, CA, United States
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On June 8, 1999, Ben Folds Five performed "Army" on "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno," showcasing their unique blend of alternative rock and pop. At th... Read Full Description >
On June 8, 1999, Ben Folds Five performed "Army" on "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno," showcasing their unique blend of alternative rock and pop. At that time, the band had just released their third studio album, "The Unauthorized Biography of Reinhold Messner," in 1998, which featured a more polished sound and themes of nostalgia and disillusionment. This performance came during a pivotal moment in their career, as they were gaining significant attention from mainstream audiences while navigating the challenges of commercial success and artistic integrity. Notably, "Army" has remained one of their signature songs, characterized by its clever lyrics and dynamic piano work, emblematic of Ben Folds' songwriting prowess. This television appearance helped cement their reputation as a compelling live act, further propelling their influence in the late '90s alternative music scene.
Ben Folds Five Full Concert at International Forum Tokyo Featuring 'Freaking Out'
International Forum Tokyo
Tokyo, Japan
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In September 1999, when Ben Folds Five performed at the International Forum in Tokyo, they were in the midst of promoting their album "The Unauthorize... Read Full Description >
In September 1999, when Ben Folds Five performed at the International Forum in Tokyo, they were in the midst of promoting their album "The Unauthorized Biography of Reinhold Messner," which was released earlier that year. This album showcased the band's evolution, incorporating a wider array of influences and marked a departure from their earlier sound. The live recording features fan-favorite tracks such as "Battle of Who Could Care Less" and "Army," which highlight their unique blend of alternative rock and piano-driven pop. Notably, this performance took place just before the band entered a hiatus, so it captures a significant moment in their career, as they were about to embark on solo projects. Additionally, the band's lyrical wit and emotional depth resonate throughout the set, further solidifying their reputation as innovative songwriters within the alternative music scene of the late '90s.
Ben Folds Five - Full Concert at Tokyo International Forum (1999)
Tokyo International Forum
Tokyo, Japan
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In September 1999, when Ben Folds Five performed live at the Tokyo International Forum, they were riding high on the success of their album "Whatever ... Read Full Description >
In September 1999, when Ben Folds Five performed live at the Tokyo International Forum, they were riding high on the success of their album "Whatever and Ever Amen," which was released in 1997. This album included some of their most well-known tracks, such as "Brick" and "Song for the Dumped," helping to solidify their place in the alternative rock scene of the late 1990s. The live performance captured in Tokyo reflects the band's dynamic presence and the fervor of their audience during this period. Interestingly, Ben Folds Five was known for their energetic live shows, which often featured Folds' charismatic piano playing and engaging stage antics. After this live recording, the band would release their third studio album, "The Unauthorized Biography of Reinhold Messner," in 1999, further showcasing their musical evolution.
Ben Folds Five - Philosophy Performance from Sessions at West 54th
West 54th
New York, NY, United States
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In January 2001, Ben Folds Five was riding high on the success of their self-titled album, "Ben Folds Five," which had been released in 1999. The live... Read Full Description >
In January 2001, Ben Folds Five was riding high on the success of their self-titled album, "Ben Folds Five," which had been released in 1999. The live performance of "Philosophy," recorded during the "Sessions at West 54th," showcases the band's signature blend of alternative rock and witty lyrics, both of which defined their musical style. By this time, the group was becoming well-known for their energetic performances and relatable songwriting. Interestingly, "Philosophy" is one of the standout tracks from their earlier album "Whatever and Ever Amen," released in 1997, which includes hits that helped establish their fanbase. The performance at West 54th highlights not just their musical talent but also their camaraderie as a trio, which was essential to their appeal. The band would later disband in 2000, making this performance a nostalgic look at their dynamic just before their hiatus.
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In January 2001, Ben Folds Five was at a significant juncture in their career, having just released their final studio album, "The Unauthorized Biogra... Read Full Description >
In January 2001, Ben Folds Five was at a significant juncture in their career, having just released their final studio album, "The Unauthorized Biography of Reinhold Messner," in 1999. The live recording of "Emaline" from the "Sessions at West 54th" highlights their unique blend of alternative rock and piano-driven melodies, showcasing their ability to merge witty lyrics with orchestration. This performance occurred during a transitional period for the band, as they would disband later that year. Notably, "Emaline" reflects Folds' penchant for storytelling and his knack for crafting memorable hooks, which contributed to the group's distinct sound. This live session not only captured their energy but also emphasized their critical and commercial success in the late '90s, illustrating the artistic depth they achieved before their split.
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In January 2001, when Ben Folds Five recorded their performance of "Smoke" for "Sessions at West 54th," they were amidst a transitional phase in their... Read Full Description >
In January 2001, when Ben Folds Five recorded their performance of "Smoke" for "Sessions at West 54th," they were amidst a transitional phase in their career. This live recording came shortly after the release of their third studio album, "The Unauthorized Biography of Reinhold Messner," which debuted in 1999. The band was exploring new musical directions, moving away from their earlier sound and embracing different influences. Notably, this album featured a more mature and introspective songwriting approach, reflecting growth in their musical identity. Furthermore, the band announced their breakup in 2000, just prior to this live recording, making this performance poignant as it marked one of their last appearances as a trio before their hiatus, which lasted until their eventual reunion in 2011. The live setting highlighted their energetic yet introspective style, further cementing their legacy in the alternative rock scene of that era.
Ben Folds Five Performs 'Kate' - Live at West 54th Sessions
West 54th
New York, NY, United States
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By January 2001, when Ben Folds Five performed "Kate" for the "Sessions at West 54th" series, the band was at a pivotal moment in their career. Their ... Read Full Description >
By January 2001, when Ben Folds Five performed "Kate" for the "Sessions at West 54th" series, the band was at a pivotal moment in their career. Their third studio album, "The Unauthorized Biography of Reinhold Messner," had been released in 1999. This album showcased a shift toward more mature themes and a broader musical palette, which distinguished it from their earlier work. However, despite critical acclaim, it faced commercial challenges, leading to the band’s eventual breakup in 2000. The performance of "Kate" highlighted their unique blend of pop, rock, and piano-driven melodies while demonstrating Folds' signature whimsical lyrics and engaging stage presence. This live recording captures Folds and his band at a time when they were grappling with both their artistic identity and the impending end of their collaboration, making it a significant moment in their discography.
Ben Folds Five: Underground Live Performance at Sessions at West 54th
Sessions at West 54th
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In January 2001, during the live recording at "Sessions at West 54th," Ben Folds Five had recently released their third studio album, "The Unauthorize... Read Full Description >
In January 2001, during the live recording at "Sessions at West 54th," Ben Folds Five had recently released their third studio album, "The Unauthorized Biography of Reinhold Messner," in 1999. This album marked a significant point in their career as it showcased a more mature sound and the band's desire to explore different musical directions, departing from their pop-rock roots. The song "Underground," performed in this session, epitomizes the band's clever lyrical style and unique blend of rock and piano-driven melodies. Notably, this performance came shortly before the group announced their hiatus in 2000, making the live recording a poignant reminder of their impact and legacy in the late '90s and early 2000s. The band's dynamic live presence and connection with fans were evident, reflecting their strong following and critical acclaim during this period.
Ben Folds Five - Selfless, Cold and Composed Performance from Sessions at West 54th
Sessions at West 54th
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By January 2001, when Ben Folds Five recorded "Selfless, Cold and Composed" for "Sessions at West 54th," the band was nearing the end of its initial r... Read Full Description >
By January 2001, when Ben Folds Five recorded "Selfless, Cold and Composed" for "Sessions at West 54th," the band was nearing the end of its initial run. Their third studio album, "The Unauthorized Biography of Reinhold Messner," had been released in 1999, following their critically acclaimed album "Whatever and Ever Amen." The performance is notable as it captures the band's blend of rock and classical influences, showcasing the unique stylings that characterized their sound. At this point in their career, they were experimenting more with complex arrangements and lyrical depth. Interestingly, the band had announced its breakup in 2000, shortly after the release of their latest album, making this live performance a significant moment that represents their transitional period and the conclusion of their early creative output together.
Ben Folds Five - 'Song for the Dumped' Live from Sessions at West 54th
Sessions at West 54th
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In January 2001, Ben Folds Five was at a pivotal point in their career following the release of their third studio album, "The Unauthorized Biography ... Read Full Description >
In January 2001, Ben Folds Five was at a pivotal point in their career following the release of their third studio album, "The Unauthorized Biography of Reinhold Messner," which came out in 1999. Though the band had gained significant popularity in the late 1990s with hits like "Brick," "Song for the Dumped" demonstrated their unique blend of piano rock and witty lyrics that resonated with fans. The performance from "Sessions at West 54th" highlights the band's energetic yet introspective style, showcasing Ben Folds' distinct vocal delivery and dynamic piano skills. This recording was part of their promotional efforts as they began transitioning towards their hiatus that would follow in 2000, during which the band members pursued their own projects, marking a significant change in their musical trajectory. "Song for the Dumped" remains an enduring favorite, reflecting their signature blend of humor and heartbreak.
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In January 2001, Ben Folds Five was at a pivotal moment in their career, having recently released their final studio album, "The Unauthorized Biograph... Read Full Description >
In January 2001, Ben Folds Five was at a pivotal moment in their career, having recently released their final studio album, "The Unauthorized Biography of Reinhold Messner," in 1999. This album showcased a more mature and introspective sound, which was evident in tracks like "Missing the War," the song featured in the live recording from "Sessions at West 54th." By this time, the band's lineup had solidified with Ben Folds as the frontman, but they were also facing internal challenges. The performance captured during this session illustrated their dynamic blend of pop and alternative rock, highlighting Folds' distinctive piano-driven style. Interestingly, this live recording marked a period shortly before the band dissolved in 2000, signaling the end of an era for Ben Folds Five and setting the stage for Folds' subsequent solo career. The energy and emotional depth of "Missing the War" reflect both the band's prowess and the transitional phase they were navigating.
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In January 2001, Ben Folds Five was navigating a transitional period in their career following the release of their fourth studio album, "The Unauthor... Read Full Description >
In January 2001, Ben Folds Five was navigating a transitional period in their career following the release of their fourth studio album, "The Unauthorized Biography of Reinhold Messner," which came out in 1999. This live performance of "One Angry Dwarf and 200 Solemn Faces" captured the group during a time when they were still enjoying popularity from their prior works, yet were also facing changes that would lead to their eventual breakup later that year. An interesting aspect of this session is the band's energetic blend of pop, rock, and classical influences, which was a hallmark of their style. The performance illustrates their unique sound and stage presence, showcasing Folds' distinctive piano playing and sharp lyrical wit that had gained them a devoted fanbase. The band's ability to deliver such an engaging live rendition reflected their solid reputation during this era, right before they disbanded, with Folds pursuing a successful solo career afterwards.
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In January 2001, when Ben Folds Five performed "Brick" on *Sessions at West 54th*, they were coming off the release of their third studio album, *The ... Read Full Description >
In January 2001, when Ben Folds Five performed "Brick" on *Sessions at West 54th*, they were coming off the release of their third studio album, *The Unauthorized Biography of Reinhold Messner*, which debuted in 1999. This album showcased a more mature sound and included intricate piano arrangements, characteristic of Ben Folds' writing style. Notably, "Brick" is one of the band's most recognized songs, addressing themes of emotional struggles and personal loss. The live recording at West 54th highlighted the band's ability to connect deeply with their audience through raw, heartfelt performances. Following this performance, Ben Folds Five disbanded in 2000, making this era significant as it marked one of the last live performances before they took an extended hiatus, with Folds later pursuing a successful solo career. This performance reflects the band's legacy and their impact on alternative rock in the late '90s.
Ben Folds - Live on Austin City Limits: Full Concert Performance
University of Texas' Studio 6A
Austin, TX, United States
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In October 2005, when Ben Folds performed live on Austin City Limits, the band was in the midst of their reunion period, having reformed in 2011 after... Read Full Description >
In October 2005, when Ben Folds performed live on Austin City Limits, the band was in the midst of their reunion period, having reformed in 2011 after their breakup in 2000. By this time, they had released their third studio album, "The Unauthorized Biography of Reinhold Messner," in 1999. This album saw a shift in their sound, incorporating a broader range of instrumentation and more complex themes. During this live performance, Folds showcased his signature blend of piano-driven melodies and witty lyrics, a hallmark of his style since the band's inception. Interestingly, "Rockin' the Suburbs," released in 2001 as a solo project for Folds, celebrated its 21st anniversary in the same year as this performance, highlighting his ongoing evolution and influence in the music scene. The Austin City Limits appearance allowed Folds to connect with both old fans and a new audience while solidifying his legacy in the alternative rock genre.
Ben Folds Five - Full Concert Live at UNC Memorial Hall, Performing 'Army' and More
UNC Memorial Hall
Chapel Hill, NC, United States
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In 2008, Ben Folds Five reunited for a special live concert at UNC Memorial Hall in Chapel Hill, marking a significant moment in their career as fans ... Read Full Description >
In 2008, Ben Folds Five reunited for a special live concert at UNC Memorial Hall in Chapel Hill, marking a significant moment in their career as fans celebrated the band's return after a hiatus. This concert, which took place on September 18, 2008, was a part of MySpace's Front to Back series, focusing on the band's album "Whatever and Ever Amen," released in 1997; it allowed the trio to perform their songs in full and in order. This reunion event was notably their first performance together in over a decade, signaling both nostalgia and a recommitment to their musical legacy. The band had released several solo projects during their time apart, including Ben Folds' own solo albums, but this concert rekindled the dynamic chemistry that made them a beloved group in the alternative rock scene of the late '90s. The concert not only highlighted their enduring fan base but also showcased their classic hits, reaffirming their impact on the music landscape.
Ben Folds Five - Full Concert at Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival
Bonnaroo
Manchester, TN, United States
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Ben Folds Five performed live at the Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival on June 10, 2012, marking a significant reunion for the group after their hiatus. ... Read Full Description >
Ben Folds Five performed live at the Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival on June 10, 2012, marking a significant reunion for the group after their hiatus. Prior to this performance, the band released their last studio album, "The Unauthorized Biography of Reinhold Messner," in 1999, before disbanding later that year. Their return to the stage at Bonnaroo was not just a nostalgic moment for fans; it also renewed interest in their unique blend of alternative rock and piano-driven melodies. The live recording served as a celebration of their comeback, coinciding with the release of their first new album in over a decade, "The Sound of the Life of the Mind," which came out later in September 2012. This performance was notable as it represented both a revival of their legacy and a fresh chapter in their career, drawing in a crowd eager to celebrate the return of a beloved band.
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In the live recording of "Army" by Ben Folds Five, the performance can be contextualized within the band's career shortly after the release of their s... Read Full Description >
In the live recording of "Army" by Ben Folds Five, the performance can be contextualized within the band's career shortly after the release of their second studio album, "Whatever and Ever Amen," which came out in 1997. This album featured the hit single "Brick," which significantly increased the band's visibility and success. By the time this live recording was made, Ben Folds Five had developed a distinctive sound characterized by clever lyrics and a blend of alternative rock and pop elements, which they showcased through their engaging live performances. Notably, "Army" became one of their most beloved tracks, admired for its dynamic arrangement and poignant themes. Interestingly, the band would later go on hiatus after 2000, making this period pivotal in the evolution of their music and legacy.
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Ben Folds Five performed "Brick" during the "Guitar Center Sessions" on DIRECTV, which took place in the early part of their reunion period. The band ... Read Full Description >
Ben Folds Five performed "Brick" during the "Guitar Center Sessions" on DIRECTV, which took place in the early part of their reunion period. The band reunited in 2012 to release "The Sound of the Life of the Mind," their first studio album in over a decade after their original split in 2000. "Brick," one of their most iconic songs, originally appeared on their 1997 album "Whatever and Ever Amen." This performance showcases the band's enduring appeal and highlights how they maintained their distinctive sound while garnering new fans during their reunion. The setting of Guitar Center Sessions, a platform known for intimate and polished performances, reflects the band's ability to connect with both longtime followers and a wider audience, serving as a testament to their lasting influence in the alternative rock scene.
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Ben Folds Five was at a pivotal point in their career around the time of the live recording of "Your Redneck Past." This performance is connected to t... Read Full Description >
Ben Folds Five was at a pivotal point in their career around the time of the live recording of "Your Redneck Past." This performance is connected to their self-titled debut album, released in 1995, which received significant acclaim and helped define their unique blend of alternative rock and pop. The album included notable tracks that showcased Ben Folds' distinct piano-driven style and storytelling lyrics, laying the groundwork for their growing popularity. Interestingly, "Your Redneck Past" reflects the band's humorous and satirical songwriting, a hallmark of their style. Following this live recording, Ben Folds Five would go on to release “Whatever and Ever Amen” in 1997, further solidifying their place in the 90s music scene. Their energetic live performances, infused with a mix of wit and emotional depth, contributed to their devoted fan base and lasting influence in the music industry.
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Before the live performance of "Narcolepsy," which showcases Ben Folds Five's distinctive blend of rock and piano-driven melodies, the band had releas... Read Full Description >
Before the live performance of "Narcolepsy," which showcases Ben Folds Five's distinctive blend of rock and piano-driven melodies, the band had released their self-titled debut album in 1995, followed by their sophomore effort, "Whatever and Ever Amen," in 1997. The live recording likely took place during their peak years when they were gaining significant popularity in the alternative rock scene. This era was marked by their unique songwriting style and engaging piano arrangements, making tracks like "Narcolepsy" resonate with fans. Notably, "Whatever and Ever Amen" featured hits like "Brick," which significantly raised the band's profile. The energetic delivery of "Narcolepsy" in the live setting highlights the band's dynamic performances, which were pivotal in establishing their reputation for impressively theatrical and emotionally resonant concerts. Their performances often included improvisation, showcasing Folds’ charismatic stage presence and musicianship.
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"Ben Folds Five - Regrets (live)" captures the band during a pivotal moment in their career. The live performance of "Regrets" showcases material from... Read Full Description >
"Ben Folds Five - Regrets (live)" captures the band during a pivotal moment in their career. The live performance of "Regrets" showcases material from their album "Whatever and Ever Amen," released in 1997. This album marked a significant breakthrough for the band, featuring popular tracks like "Brick" and "Smoke." The band's unique blend of alternative rock and piano-driven melodies resonated with audiences, propelling them into mainstream success. At this stage, Ben Folds Five was gaining notable recognition and expanding their fanbase, even as they faced the pressures of achieving sustained success. Interesting to note is that "Regrets" reflects the band's introspective and often poignant lyrical style, highlighting Folds' knack for exploring complex emotional themes, which became a hallmark of their music. This live recording effectively captures their energetic stage presence and solidifies their reputation as a distinctive force in the '90s music scene.
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Ben Folds Five was at a pivotal stage in their career during the time of the live recording of "Fair." This performance is believed to have taken plac... Read Full Description >
Ben Folds Five was at a pivotal stage in their career during the time of the live recording of "Fair." This performance is believed to have taken place around the release of their self-titled debut album in 1995, which garnered significant critical acclaim and commercial success. "Fair," a poignant track addressing the complexities of relationships and life's challenges, showcases the band's signature blend of introspective lyrics and catchy melodies. The album itself set the foundation for their unique sound, often combining elements of pop, rock, and alternative, which resonated with a broad audience. Additionally, Ben Folds Five was known for their engaging live performances, often infusing humor and spontaneity, making their shows memorable experiences. The band's distinctive sound and approach to songwriting would influence many artists in the coming years, solidifying their status in the late '90s alt-rock scene.
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Before the live recording of "Don't Change Your Plans," Ben Folds Five had just released their 1997 album "Whatever and Ever Amen," which featured sev... Read Full Description >
Before the live recording of "Don't Change Your Plans," Ben Folds Five had just released their 1997 album "Whatever and Ever Amen," which featured several of their notable tracks and significantly contributed to their popularity. The live performance likely came during a time of heightened recognition for the band, as this was the album that solidified their presence in the alternative rock scene and included hits like "Brick" and "Song for the Dumped." "Don't Change Your Plans," a poignant and reflective track, showcases the band’s signature blend of catchy melodies and introspective lyrics. Interestingly, the live recording underscores their dynamic stage presence and ability to connect emotionally with the audience, a hallmark of their performances. The band's unique sound, characterized by Folds' piano-driven compositions and clever lyricism, resonates throughout this period, reinforcing their identity as one of the defining acts of the era.
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The live recording of "Uncle Walter" by Ben Folds Five captures a moment from their early career, specifically around the time of their 1997 album "Wh... Read Full Description >
The live recording of "Uncle Walter" by Ben Folds Five captures a moment from their early career, specifically around the time of their 1997 album "Whatever and Ever Amen," which featured this track. This album was critically acclaimed and played a significant role in catapulting the band into mainstream success, solidifying their following in the alternative rock scene. Notably, "Whatever and Ever Amen" included other hits such as "Brick" and "Battle of Who Could Care Less." The band's unique blend of piano-driven rock and introspective lyrics resonated with audiences, leading to a growing fanbase during this period. Interestingly, "Uncle Walter" showcases Ben Folds' signature storytelling style, combining humor and poignancy, which became a hallmark of his songwriting throughout his career. The live performance of this song reflects the energy and charisma that characterized the band's early shows, contributing to their reputation as an engaging live act.
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In the NPR Music Tiny Desk Concert, Ben Folds showcased his heartfelt songwriting and piano mastery, reflecting a significant moment in his career aft... Read Full Description >
In the NPR Music Tiny Desk Concert, Ben Folds showcased his heartfelt songwriting and piano mastery, reflecting a significant moment in his career after the disbanding of Ben Folds Five. By the time of this performance, which was recorded in 2018, Folds had already released several solo albums following the group's dissolution in 2000. Notably, his most recent album at that time was "So There," released in 2015, which combined classical elements with his signature style and featured orchestral arrangements. This concert served as an intimate setting that highlighted Folds' ability to connect with his audience through storytelling and humor, while also revealing his willingness to embrace vulnerability, like when he occasionally forgot his lyrics. Such genuine moments reaffirm his reputation as a relatable artist who thrives in live settings, making him a staple in the singer-songwriter genre.
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Ben Folds Five was on the rise in the mid-1990s when they performed "Jackson Cannery" live, a track from their self-titled debut album released in 199... Read Full Description >
Ben Folds Five was on the rise in the mid-1990s when they performed "Jackson Cannery" live, a track from their self-titled debut album released in 1995. This album showcased their unique blend of alternative rock and piano-driven pop, quickly garnering attention for its witty lyrics and energetic sound. The live performance of "Jackson Cannery" captures the band's dynamic energy and demonstrates their engaging stage presence. Following their debut, their popularity peaked with the release of their sophomore album, "Whatever and Ever Amen," in 1997, which included hits like "Brick." An interesting fact about this era is that the band's blend of melodic hooks and introspective lyrics set them apart in the alternative scene, enabling them to carve out a distinctive niche that resonated with a broad audience.
Ben Folds Five - Philosophy Performance from Later with Jools Holland
Later with Jools Holland
United Kingdom
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Ben Folds Five performed "Philosophy" live on the UK television show "Later with Jools Holland" shortly after the release of their self-titled debut a... Read Full Description >
Ben Folds Five performed "Philosophy" live on the UK television show "Later with Jools Holland" shortly after the release of their self-titled debut album in 1995. The band's unique blend of alternative rock and pop piano music quickly garnered them attention in the bustling 90s music scene. "Ben Folds Five" showcased their signature sound and included hits like "Brick" and "Philosophy," which became fan favorites. This live performance highlighted the band's energetic stage presence and Folds' charismatic piano-driven songwriting. Notably, the trio was known for their intricate arrangements and witty lyrics, setting them apart from many of their contemporaries. This recording captures a pivotal moment in their early career, as they were beginning to rise in prominence and gain a dedicated following, marking the start of their lasting impact on the music industry.
Popular Tracks
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Ben Folds: NPR Music Tiny Desk Concert
Tiny Desk Date Unknown -
Ben Folds Five - Philosophy (from Sessions at West 54th)
West 54th January 1, 2001 -
Ben Folds Five - Brick (from Sessions at West 54th)
Sessions at West 54th January 1, 2001 -
Ben Folds Five - Underground (from Sessions at West 54th)
Sessions at West 54th January 1, 2001 -
Ben Folds Five "Brick" Guitar Center Sessions on DIRECTV
Guitar Center Sessions Date Unknown -
Ben Folds Five - One Angry Dwarf and 200 Solemn Faces (from Sessions at West 54th)
Sessions at West 54th January 1, 2001 -
Ben Folds Five - Kate (from Sessions at West 54th)
West 54th January 1, 2001 -
Ben Folds Five - Selfless, Cold and Composed (from Sessions at West 54th)
Sessions at West 54th January 1, 2001 -
Ben Folds Five - Philosophy (Live on Jools Holland)
Later with Jools Holland Date Unknown -
Ben Folds Five - Song for the Dumped (from Sessions at West 54th)
Sessions at West 54th January 1, 2001