Ben Folds on the depth of the new ‘Snoopy Presents’ animated musical and why he left Trump’s Kennedy Center

In simpler terms, Snoopy is the main character and star of the “Peanuts” universe, but Ben Folds has always been supportive of Charlie Brown. When asked about his favorite, the musician-composer expressed that he tends to lean towards Charlie Brown, stating, “I’ll have to go with Chuck because he’s so emotionally reserved.

In simpler terms, Folds didn’t spend his childhood immersed in the works of Charles M. Schulz or memorizing their television adaptations; instead, he found himself particularly fond of Vince Guaraldi’s music from the animated specials, rather than being a fan of other media outside of music.

When he got hired to compose the title song for “It’s the Small Things, Charlie Brown,” sung by Sally (Charlie’s sister), in the 2022 Apple TV special, he first began delving into the world of Charlie Brown and his friends. More recently, he revisited this beloved cast of characters again when he took on writing the final three songs for “Snoopy Presents: A Summer Musical.

Folds expresses that he developed a deep appreciation for the ‘Peanuts’ world in his adulthood, but admits he remained awestruck by the prospect of writing for Charlie Brown. He notes the weight of responsibility he felt and recalls seeking approval from the Schulz family when crafting his work, who graciously granted him creative freedom.

In simpler terms, although Folds’ popular songs like “Brick,” “Song for the Dumped,” “Army,” “Rockin’ the Suburbs” and “Zak and Sara” might appear too sarcastic or melancholic for the cheerful universe of Snoopy and his friends, he perceives it differently.

He notes that “Peanuts,” similar to “Mister Rogers,” offers a profound and multi-layered perspective on life, rather than oversimplifying it, which is uncommon in children’s programming. He adds that through his songs, he was able to convey messages that children can grasp, yet may be too complex for many adults to fully comprehend.

He also knows how to approach the storytelling aspect of musical writing pragmatically.

Within the boundaries set by the show, Folds expresses gratitude towards the creators for allowing him creative autonomy. He explains that they grant him complete artistic freedom without imposing any restrictions, as he himself notes. Additionally, when he incorporates poetic imagery into his work, director Erik Wiese skillfully integrates those concepts into the animation, which Folds finds very impressive and exciting.

His goal is to hear people say that his lyrics were so impactful they could eliminate entire scenes from their scripts. That’s the power he wants his songs to have.

Weiser remarks that Folds was perfectly suited to succeed Guaraldi, as “he combines contemporary elements with exceptionally poetic lyrics, ensuring that his albums touch the heart every time.

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Craig Schulz, Charles’ son who serves as both writer and executive producer, was greatly impressed by Folds’ songwriting abilities and his sense of responsibility towards the “Peanuts” brand. According to Schulz, Folds has a remarkable talent for understanding the thoughts and emotions of each character in the gang, and guiding the audience in the desired direction. On one occasion, the writers had a call with Folds to convey the emotions they needed for a scene, and suddenly he declared, “I’ve got it! I’m really excited!” before rushing off to his piano to compose the music.

The initial melody penned by Folds for “A Summer Musical” emerged when Charlie Brown comprehends that his cherished camp is about to be destroyed under the banner of development. He explains, “I wanted him to possess the insight of his 60-year-old self to recall ‘when we were as light as clouds’ so he could grasp what’s to come.” Thus, the song carries an emotional weight even as it portrays Charlie Brown reminiscing over “photographs of acquaintances he made just five days prior. That’s how kids are – they absorb a vast world and learn a great deal in just five days.

Although he didn’t compose the initial two tunes for the show, there is a noticeable influence of Folds’ piano style and melodies in those songs. According to Wiese, “We aimed for a consistent sound.

In the concluding song, Folds subtly highlights the camp’s salvation, yet infuses the notion that these children are burdened with numerous issues inherited from previous generations, such as climate change. However, he avoids a pessimistic tone, instead suggesting that these parents did their best and that this new generation, much like the reference to “Hello Mother, Hello Father,” will learn from mistakes and strive to do better in their own unique ways.

Folds emphasizes the significance of maintaining a balanced, pragmatic perspective among artists and those on the political left, while avoiding excessive pessimism or prophesying disasters.

I understand the potential severity of the situation, yet there are two perspectives you might consider: One approach to discussing climate change could lead to resignation and carelessness, with individuals adopting habits like drinking from plastic bottles and discarding them thoughtlessly. However, another approach involves inspiring people, presenting a vision of hope that encourages them to work towards a better future.

It’s clear that Folds isn’t ignoring the current challenges. In fact, he resigned from his role as artistic advisor for the National Symphony Orchestra at the Kennedy Center as a form of protest against Donald Trump’s actions there.

He states, “I didn’t want to be just a piece in that,” implying he wouldn’t simply follow orders. Instead of asking friends like Sara Bareilles to join him, he is emphasizing that he’s using the extra time to collaborate with other symphony orchestras now.

Recently, Folds has attempted to address the turmoil of our contemporary age in a unique manner. Last holiday season, he unveiled his debut Christmas album titled “Sleigher.” His upcoming 2023 album, “What Matters Most,” starts off with the track “But Wait, There’s More,” which incorporates political commentary before transitioning into discussions about human kindness, and concludes on a positive note with the inspiring “Moments.

Certainly, it’s clear that Folds recognizes this show, featuring a beagle and an indescribable small yellow bird, isn’t ideal for delving into current affairs. Even as the lyrics touch upon somber themes, they manage to arrive at an optimistic resolution.

He expresses a preference for art that carries some sense of optimism, as it traverses his time period,” he states.

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2025-08-15 23:01