Ben Folds’ First Tour Since 2013
The wait is finally over. The influential piano, bass, and drums trio known as Ben Folds Five is officially getting back together, poised to hit the road in 2027 for a long-anticipated tour. After a hiatus, the group is set to embark on their first major tour since 2012-2013, kicking off with a slate of U.S. dates starting April 12 at the Tennessee Theatre in Knoxville, Tennessee.
This highly anticipated reunion brings back three musical talents who have left an indelible mark on popular music. The group—comprised of Ben Folds, bassist Robert Sledge, and drummer Darren Jessee—has not shared a stage together since a memorable one-off performance in Carrboro, North Carolina, in 2023, a moment that followed the passing of longtime producer Caleb Southern.
The initial itinerary promises to focus on the Southern and Texas states, setting the stage for a journey across the region. While these initial dates promise exploration of the South and Texas, the band is already hinting at even more exciting plans, including additional shows and undisclosed top-billed festival appearances.
The renewed excitement is further fueled by a celebration of the band’s legacy. The reunion coincides with a significant milestone: the 30th anniversary of Ben Folds Five’s self-titled 1995 debut album. This anniversary celebration features a newly remastered version of the original album, alongside the rediscovery of Shelved First Attempt, a previously unreleased recording from the band’s very first attempt at the LP, found hidden in Folds’ personal archives.
Reflecting on their journey, Ben Folds emphasizes the importance of authenticity in their creative process. He shared that while making music now, he feels no different than he did with their first record, but he stressed that one cannot unknow experiences. “And the thing that I still carry with me that I did from then, which is, if I made a record, and it didn’t seem like who I was then, I would shelve it now, even if it had a $300,000 price tag attached to it, because I think that the worst thing you could do is to misrepresent yourself,” he noted.
Fans eager to experience the return of the group can mark their calendars. Tickets for the first wave of shows go on sale Friday, October 23. The initial tour dates are spread across several cities, including Knoxville, Chattanooga, Jacksonville, Pompano Beach, Clearwater, Austin, and Houston, promising a vibrant musical experience for those who want to witness the magic of Ben Folds Five live once again.
Buy on Amazon
Credit
