Ben Folds Five, a name that resonates with fans of alternative rock and piano-driven melodies, is set to return in 2025 with a monumental tour combining orchestral performances and Ben Folds’ signature solo sets. This exciting new chapter for the legendary band brings a fresh twist to their well-known sound, merging orchestral grandeur with the raw, emotional energy of Folds’ live solo performances. With his knack for crafting music that blends complexity with accessibility, fans are eager to see how Folds will navigate the merging of these two musical worlds.
In this blog post, we’ll take a deep dive into the 2025 Ben Folds Five tour, offering a comprehensive overview of what to expect from the orchestral and solo performances, including the setlists, concert details, collaborations, and unique experiences that will make this tour one to remember.
The Legacy of Ben Folds Five
Before we dive into the specifics of the 2025 tour, it’s important to understand the musical journey that led us here. Ben Folds Five formed in 1994, with the band consisting of Ben Folds on piano and lead vocals, Robert Sledge on bass, and Darren Jessee on drums. The trio quickly gained recognition for their unique blend of piano pop and rock, with Folds’ emotionally charged lyrics and piano-driven melodies serving as the heart of the band’s sound.
Over the years, Ben Folds Five became known for their innovative and often theatrical performances, utilizing intricate arrangements and a blend of musical genres. The band’s breakout album, Whatever and Ever Amen (1997), produced timeless hits like “Brick” and “Army,” solidifying their place in the music world.
After disbanding in 2000, Folds pursued a successful solo career, exploring even more diverse musical terrain, from orchestral collaborations to indie rock. However, fans have always hoped for the return of Ben Folds Five, and in recent years, the band has reunited for a limited number of performances.
Now, as the 2025 tour approaches, the legacy of Ben Folds Five promises to be redefined through a unique blend of orchestral collaborations and intimate solo performances.
The 2025 Tour: Orchestras and Solo Performances
The 2025 Ben Folds Five tour promises to be an unforgettable musical journey, blending Folds’ rock roots with orchestral arrangements. The decision to feature orchestras alongside solo performances creates an extraordinary opportunity for fans to experience the band’s iconic hits like never before.
Orchestral Performances: A New Dimension to the Music
One of the most exciting aspects of the 2025 tour is the inclusion of orchestras at select performances. Ben Folds has long been an advocate for the integration of classical music with rock, and this tour promises to push that concept even further.
Fans will have the opportunity to hear Ben Folds Five’s most beloved songs re-imagined with lush, full orchestral arrangements. Imagine the soaring strings and rich brass complementing the intricate melodies of “Brick” or the dramatic tension in “Song for the Dumped.” These performances will bring a sense of grandeur and drama that was only hinted at in the original recordings.
Ben Folds’ ability to work with orchestras is nothing new. Over the years, he has collaborated with various symphonies, including the Nashville Symphony and the Sydney Symphony Orchestra. These collaborations have allowed Folds to showcase his versatility as a composer, arranging his music for a much larger ensemble than the usual rock band setup. The orchestral performances during the 2025 tour will be a continuation of this musical exploration, offering fans a once-in-a-lifetime chance to hear Ben Folds Five’s music in a completely new light.
Solo Performances: The Intimate Side of Ben Folds
While the orchestral performances will provide a grand and sweeping backdrop for the music, Ben Folds’ solo sets are sure to offer a more intimate experience for fans. Folds is known for his witty and engaging stage presence, which often includes humorous anecdotes, audience interaction, and a deeply personal connection to the material.
During these solo performances, Folds will revisit both his Ben Folds Five catalog and his solo work, delivering songs with just his piano and voice. This intimate setting allows Folds to showcase his raw emotional range and storytelling abilities. Songs like “The Luckiest” and “Not the Same” will take on new meaning in this stripped-down format, as Folds’ vulnerability and charisma shine through.
In addition to his classic material, fans can expect to hear new songs and unexpected covers, as Folds is known for his ever-evolving setlists. His solo performances will likely include both fan favorites and deep cuts, creating a dynamic concert experience that leaves fans on the edge of their seats.
Tour Dates and Locations
The 2025 Ben Folds Five tour will span multiple continents, with performances in major cities across North America, Europe, and beyond. The orchestra-backed performances will likely be limited to certain cities, with Folds’ solo performances scattered throughout the tour to offer a variety of experiences for fans.
North American Dates:
- New York City: Madison Square Garden with the New York Philharmonic Orchestra
- Los Angeles: Hollywood Bowl with the Los Angeles Symphony
- Chicago: United Center with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra
- Toronto: Roy Thomson Hall with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra
European Dates:
- London: Royal Albert Hall with the London Symphony Orchestra
- Berlin: Mercedes-Benz Arena with the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra
- Paris: Olympia with a local symphony orchestra
Other Notable Dates:
- Sydney, Australia: The Sydney Opera House with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra
- Auckland, New Zealand: Vector Arena with the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra
These locations are just a glimpse into the tour’s full schedule. For those eager to see Ben Folds Five live, tickets will be available for presale and general sale, with VIP packages for fans looking to experience something extra special, including meet-and-greets and exclusive access to soundchecks.
Special Collaborations and Guest Appearances
One of the most exciting elements of the 2025 tour is the potential for surprise collaborations and guest appearances. Throughout his career, Ben Folds has worked with a variety of artists across different genres, from William Shatner to Regina Spektor. It’s not unlikely that we’ll see some of these collaborators join him on stage for special performances during the tour.
Additionally, Folds has a history of surprising his audience with impromptu performances and unexpected collaborations. Whether it’s a local artist joining the stage for a rendition of a classic song or a surprise guest from the rock world joining for a duet, these unannounced moments will add an element of excitement and spontaneity to the shows.
Fans can also expect Folds to bring his signature sense of humor and charisma to these collaborations. Whether he’s bantering with orchestra members or engaging with the audience in his usual playful way, these moments will make the concerts feel like more than just performances—they will be events filled with personality and excitement.
The Music: What to Expect from Setlists
When it comes to the setlist, fans can expect a mix of Ben Folds Five’s biggest hits, deep cuts from the band’s back catalog, and selections from Ben Folds’ extensive solo work. The addition of orchestras to the mix will provide an opportunity for some of the band’s more orchestral moments to come to life in a new way.
Key songs likely to be featured in the setlist include:
- “Brick” – A timeless ballad that will surely be reinterpreted with orchestral grandeur.
- “Army” – A fan favorite, with its upbeat, anthemic sound, it will shine with full orchestra backing.
- “The Luckiest” – One of Ben Folds’ most emotional tracks, perfect for an intimate solo performance.
- “Not the Same” – A high-energy track that could benefit from the dramatic orchestral arrangements.
Fans can also expect some surprises, as Folds has a long history of mixing things up. With the inclusion of orchestra members, there may be new arrangements of older songs or reworked versions of Folds’ solo work, offering something fresh even for longtime listeners.
Key Takeaways
The 2025 Ben Folds Five tour is shaping up to be a once-in-a-lifetime event for fans. By combining orchestral performances with intimate solo sets, Ben Folds is offering a truly unique concert experience that showcases the depth and versatility of his musical vision. Fans can look forward to a mix of beloved hits, orchestral grandeur, and spontaneous moments that make every show feel special. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Ben Folds Five or a newcomer to his music, the 2025 tour promises to be a highlight in the career of this legendary artist.
The 2025 Ben Folds Five tour, with its fusion of orchestral performances and solo sets, is one of the most anticipated music events of the year. As the band and Ben Folds continue to evolve, they are reimagining their legacy and introducing fans to new and exciting musical experiences. With the chance to hear Ben Folds Five’s most iconic tracks paired with lush orchestral arrangements, as well as the intimacy of Folds’ solo performances, this tour is sure to be an unforgettable celebration of the music that has defined a generation. Get your tickets now and be part of this historic musical journey.
