Broken Record with Rick Rubin, Malcolm Gladwell, Bruce Headlam and Justin Richmond Ben Kweller
May 27, 2025
Ben Kweller, an indie rock singer-songwriter known for his work with Radish and a successful solo career, shares a heartfelt journey through grief after losing his teenage son. He discusses how this devastating loss influenced his latest album, 'Cover the Mirrors,' emphasizing healing and creativity. Kweller reflects on navigating fatherhood, the bonds forged in loss, and how music became a channel for his emotions. His poignant storytelling blends raw honesty with insights into the complexities of life and artistry.
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Early Hustle Launches Radish
- Ben Kweller started his first real band Radish inspired by Nirvana, combining it with Beatles-style songwriting from a young age.
- He hustled early, booking gigs unexpectedly like calling a bowling alley at 12 to perform, leading to his first concert in 1994.
Teen Ben Meets Music Legends
- At 15, Ben Kweller experienced the surreal of music business partying, meeting iconic artists like Dr. Dre and Tom Petty.
- Tom Petty invited young Ben to play guitar at a private Malibu party, creating a pivotal early career memory.
Healing Through Creative Return
- Grief initially drained Ben Kweller's creative drive; he realized art requires wellness, not despair.
- After months, songwriting returned as a sacred dialogue with Dorian, inspiring the album Cover the Mirrors.