Ben Folds Five

Ben Folds Five Performs 'Army' on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno

The Tonight Show with Jay Leno
Los Angeles, CA, United States

• 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 Tokyo International Forum (1999)

Tokyo International Forum
Tokyo, Japan

• 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 Full Concert at International Forum Tokyo Featuring 'Freaking Out'

International Forum Tokyo
Tokyo, Japan

• 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.