The MeidasTouch Podcast Ben Folds on Kennedy Center Resignation and Surprise Album Release
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Jul 6, 2025 Ben Folds, a legendary musician and former artistic advisor to the National Symphony Orchestra, discusses his resignation from the Kennedy Center amid Trump's controversial policies. He reveals how he seized the opportunity to record a surprise album with the orchestra while navigating the political landscape. Folds also reflects on the vital role of artists in activism and advocates for the importance of artistic expression. The conversation highlights the impact of budget cuts on both the arts and critical health research, stressing the need for change.
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Art and Politics Firewall Breached
- The Trump takeover breached the firewall separating partisan politics from art at the Kennedy Center.
- This threatens artists' freedom to express without political interference or intimidation.
Avoid Being Political Puppets
- Artists should resign rather than be used as puppets by political regimes.
- Staying can imply support and be exploited as propaganda by authoritarian figures.
Kennedy Center Reflects Soviet Control
- The Kennedy Center originally stood as a reaction against Soviet-style control of the arts.
- The Trump takeover ironically mirrored the same centralized control the Center was founded to avoid.