Ben is still working with Nick Hornby as reported earlier on this website, but the project has taken the form of an e-mail collaboration. Nick periodically e-mails lyrics to Ben, who told the Sunday Times of London, “when I have a moment, I stare at them until I hear a song.” The album is about half finished, according to the story in Australia’s Sky News, and would include a dozen songs penned by Hornby on topics of love and life.
From Your Town to Beantown
The opening act for Ben’s October 2nd sold out Boston Pops show will be selected from entrants by Ben, along with Pops conductor Keith Lockhart. The artist, to be selected from those who apply on Sonicbids, will receive $1000 for travel and lodging expenses and will perform a 25 to 30 minute set prior to Folds going on with the Boston Pops. Performers from all genres will be considered, but because the orchestra will be set up and there will be limited stage space, no full drum kits will be allowed, and the selected act must be able to set up and clear the stage quickly in order to allow the show to continue. Keyboardists must bring their own (Ben’s piano is, unfortunately, off limits), and singer/songwriter style artists will be given preference.
Lollapalooza, Festivals, Orchestras
Ben’s in the lineup for Lollapalooza, August 7-9 in Chicago’s Grant Park (Ben performs on August 7 from 4-5 PM at the Budweiser stage). He’ll also be headlining Yokohama’s Nano-Mugen festival in July, and playing with several symphony orchestras in the fall. Check the tourdates page.
