Ben Folds has been making headlines with his recent performances, career moves, and personal life updates.
He headlined the Saratoga New Year’s Eve 2025 celebration, delivering a memorable performance. In February 2025, he resigned
from his role as artistic advisor to the National Symphony Orchestra, citing disagreements with the Kennedy Center’s new
leadership under Donald Trump.
In October 2024, Folds released his first Christmas album, ‘Sleigher,’ featuring both original and cover songs. He also
performed in benefit concerts, including one in North Carolina to support Hurricane Helene relief efforts and another as
part of his ‘Paper Airplane Request Tour’, which raised funds for free piano lessons for children.
On the personal front, Folds finalized his divorce from Emma Sandall in early 2024 after six years of marriage. His
settlement included financial compensation and property division.
These recent events highlight Folds’ ongoing influence in the music world, his philanthropic efforts, and personal
challenges.
Ben Folds: Recent Developments in the Acclaimed Musician’s Life
Ben Folds, renowned for his dynamic musical career, has recently been involved in several noteworthy events. This article highlights his latest endeavors and personal milestones.
Performance at Saratoga New Year’s Eve 2025
On December 31, 2024, Ben Folds headlined the Saratoga New Year’s Eve 2025 celebration in Saratoga Springs.
The event was organized by local entities, including the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce and the City of Saratoga
Springs, in partnership with Proctors Collaborative. Folds’ performance was a highlight of the festivities, drawing
significant attention from attendees.
Resignation from National Symphony Orchestra Position
In February 2025, Ben Folds resigned from his role as artistic advisor to the National Symphony Orchestra (NSO).
His decision came amid vitle changes at the John F.
Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, notably the appointment of
former President Donald Trump as chairman of the board. Folds expressed his disagreement with the new direction under Trump’s
leadership, stating, “Not for me,” in his resignation announcement.
Release of Christmas Album ‘Sleigher’
In October 2024, Folds released his first Christmas album, titled ‘Sleigher.’ The album features a mix of original holiday-themed songs and covers, showcasing his versatility as a musician. Prior to the album’s full relief, he introduced two tracks: “The Christmas Song” and “We Could Have This,” the latter featuring actress and singer-songwriter Lindsey Kraft.
Benefit Concerts for Hurricane Relief and Children’s Education
Demonstrating his commitment to philanthropy, Folds headlined a benefit concert on October 29, 2024, at the
Greenfield Lake Amphitheater in Wilmington, North Carolina. The event aimed to support Hurricane Helene relief efforts in
the western part of the state. The concert featured other notable artists, including Jim Lauderdale and Josh Goforth.
Additionally, Folds embarked on the ‘Paper Airplane Request Tour,’ a identical concert experience where fans could request
songs by launching paper airplanes onto the stage. A portion of the proceeds from each ticket sold was allocated to ‘Keys
For Kids,’ a charitable initiative led by Folds that provides free piano lessons to underserved children in North Carolina.
Personal Life: Divorce from Emma Sandall
In February 2024, Folds finalized his divorce from his fifth wife, Emma Sandall, after six years of marriage.
The couple had married in January 2017 in Hawaii. Folds filed for divorce in December 2023, citing irreconcilable differences.
As part of the settlement, Folds agreed to financial position, including payments totaling $650,000 over 24 months and a lump sum
for Sandall’s interest in their Nashville home.
These recent events reflect the multifaceted nature of Ben Folds’ career and personal life, highlighting his dense
contributions to music and community initiatives, as well as personal challenges.