Ben Folds' "Tis the Season" Tour: A Unique Take on Holiday Music

Ben Folds recently concluded his "Tis the Season" tour, promoting his 2024 album "Sleigher." The tour showcased Folds' unique approach to Christmas music, blending original songs with holiday classics. Performing at venues like Los Angeles' Blue Note Cafe, Folds engaged audiences with a mix of humor and earnestness, challenging the stigma often associated with Christmas albums.

Variety Magazine

Folds' concert experience highlighted his belief that Christmas serves as a rich backdrop for songwriting. He explained, "It’s the holiday that’s too big to fail," emphasizing how the repetitive nature of the season allows for personal reflection and growth. His original songs, such as "Christmas Time Rhyme," explore themes of time and familial connections, while also addressing feelings of loneliness during the holidays.

Variety Magazine

Throughout the tour, Folds performed a variety of songs that encapsulated the holiday spirit while also pushing boundaries. His set included the poignant "Brick," which contrasts the typical festive narrative with a more somber story. He also introduced lesser-known tracks like "You Don’t Have to Be a Santa Claus (When Christmas Comes Around)," which encourages helping others beyond the holiday season. Folds' original song "Maurice" humorously depicts a pet's disdain for suburban Christmas decorations, showcasing his ability to blend humor with heartfelt storytelling.

Variety Magazine

Folds articulated his motivations for writing holiday music, stating, "I like a good rhyme," and reflecting on how Christmas serves as a marker for personal change. He acknowledged the challenges of creating original holiday music but embraced the opportunity to engage with audiences through both comedic and serious tones.

Variety Magazine

While Folds' approach to Christmas music has been well-received, some critics argue that holiday-themed albums can often feel like cash grabs. However, Folds counters this notion by infusing his work with genuine emotion and personal experiences, setting his music apart from typical seasonal offerings.

Variety Magazine

• “I like a good rhyme, and that’s why I guess I’ve bothered to write a whole Christmas album, plus a few other songs in my past,” — Ben Folds

Variety Magazine

• “Precious moments like these, they mean the world to me / Listen, you’re all fuckin’ freaks, but we’re family / So we do what it takes to be in one place, if just for a day.” — Ben Folds

Variety Magazine

Ben Folds' "Tis the Season" tour exemplifies a thoughtful and creative approach to holiday music, blending humor with deeper reflections on life. His ability to craft original songs that resonate with audiences suggests a promising future for his Christmas-themed projects. As fans look forward to potential new material, Folds' commitment to meaningful songwriting continues to set a high standard in the genre.

Variety Magazine