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Musician Ben Folds.

Singer, songwriter, pianist Ben Folds of the piano-bass-drum trio, Ben Folds Five. They're best known for their hit "Brick" a ballad about an abortion, in which the word "abortion" is never used. The band, from North Carolina, has been in existence since 1994. It includes drummer Darren Jessee and bassist Robert Sledge. In a New York Times review, Neil Strauss writes that Folds combines "the pomp and virtuosity of classic late 60's and 70's pop with the smart knowing lyrics of punk's more sensitive songwriters." Their new CD is "Ben Folds Five: Naked Baby Photos" (Caroline Records)

20:57

Other segments from the episode on April 9, 1998

Fresh Air with Terry Gross, April 9, 1998: Interview with Ben Folds; Commentary on poetry; Review of Paul Robeson's album "Songs of Free Men."

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