Ben Kweller
Digest
This podcast features Ben Kweller discussing his extensive musical career. He starts by detailing his experiences with his teenage band, Radish, their unexpected success, and their journey through the major label system. He then transitions to his solo career, highlighting key collaborations, such as his work with Evan Dando and ATO Records. Kweller describes the evolution of his songwriting, moving from band compositions to more personal and autobiographical work, influenced by his wife and life experiences. He discusses the creation of several albums, including *Sha Sha*, his self-titled album, *On My Way*, and *Changing Horses*, detailing the recording processes and the impact of various producers and labels. A significant portion of the podcast focuses on the tragic loss of his son, Dorian, and the subsequent creation of his album *Cover the Mirrors* as a form of healing and grief processing. He shares memories of Dorian's musical talent and describes establishing a family cemetery on his property. The podcast also includes anecdotes about his friendship and collaboration with Ed Sheeran, particularly regarding the song "13." Throughout, Kweller offers insights into his songwriting process, his experiences with independent and major labels, and the profound impact of personal life on his music.
Outlines
Early Career: Radish and the Transition to Solo Artist
Ben Kweller recounts his early career with the band Radish, their unexpected success, and the lessons learned from their major label experience. He details the transition to his solo career and the shift towards a more personal songwriting style.
Songwriting Evolution and Key Collaborations
Kweller discusses the evolution of his songwriting, the influence of his wife, and key collaborations that shaped his unique musical identity. He highlights pivotal moments like working with Evan Dando and signing with ATO Records.
Album Creation: *Sha Sha* and Independent Success
Kweller details the recording of *Sha Sha*, his experience with ATO Records, and the album's eclectic sound. He contrasts this with the creation of his self-titled album and *On My Way*, discussing different production styles and label involvement.
Fatherhood, *Changing Horses*, and The Noise Company
Kweller discusses the impact of fatherhood on his music, the creation of *Changing Horses*, and the founding of his own record label, The Noise Company.
Dorian's Life, Musicality, and Tragic Death
Kweller shares memories of his son Dorian, his musical talents, and the devastating impact of his death in a car accident.
Grief, Healing, and *Cover the Mirrors*
Kweller discusses his coping mechanisms after Dorian's death, including the creation of *Cover the Mirrors*, and the emotional depth of the album. He details the process of establishing a family cemetery.
Reflecting on Past Albums and the Significance of "13"
Kweller reflects on his discography, categorizing his albums and discussing their unique characteristics. He shares a story about Ed Sheeran's appreciation for his song "13."
Meeting Ed Sheeran and Collaboration
Kweller recounts his meeting with Ed Sheeran, their subsequent friendship, and their collaboration.
Keywords
Indie Rock
A genre of rock music characterized by independent production and distribution, often featuring alternative and experimental sounds.
Major Label Experience
The process of signing with and working with a large record company, encompassing recording, promotion, and distribution.
Autobiographical Songwriting
A songwriting style where lyrics directly reflect the artist's personal experiences, emotions, and life events.
Musical Collaboration
The process of creating music with other musicians, involving shared creative input and a collective artistic vision.
Grief and Healing
The emotional process of coping with loss and finding ways to move forward.
Songwriting Process
The methods and techniques used by Ben Kweller to create his songs.
Independent Record Label
The challenges and rewards of running an independent record label.
FL Studio
A popular Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) used for music production.
Family Cemetery
A private burial ground established on private property.
Q&A
How did your experience with Radish shape your solo career?
Radish provided invaluable experience, but the major label experience taught valuable lessons that shaped his solo approach.
What were some of the most significant turning points in your career?
Discovering Radish's demo, Evan Dando's invitation to tour, and signing with ATO Records were pivotal.
How did your personal life influence your music?
His wife's influence led to a more personal songwriting style; his son's death profoundly affected his later work.
How did working with different producers shape your sound?
Each producer brought a unique approach, influencing the production style and overall sound of his albums.
What advice would you give to aspiring musicians?
Stay true to your vision, be persistent, embrace collaboration, and never sell your publishing.
How did the experience of losing your son Dorian impact your songwriting and the creation of *Cover the Mirrors*?
Songwriting became a form of healing, resulting in *Cover the Mirrors*, reflecting his grief and emotional journey.
What makes your song "13" so unique and why is it a favorite of Ed Sheeran's?
Its unconventional structure and heartfelt lyrics resonate deeply with listeners, including Ed Sheeran, who appreciates its anti-pop nature.
Can you describe the process of establishing a family cemetery on your property after Dorian's death?
The local judge expedited the process, allowing for a quicker resolution than usual.
How did you and your family cope with the loss of Dorian?
The family relied on each other, their community, and their faith; Kweller found solace in his music.
What is the significance of the song "Breaks" on your new album?
"Breaks" is a deeply personal and cathartic song reflecting his emotional state after his son's death.
Show Notes
For close to three decades, Ben Kweller’s been crafting deeply personal indie rock that's both intimate and expansive. From his early days fronting the band Radish as a teenager in the '90s to his acclaimed solo career that began in the early 2000s, he's consistently delivered songs that feel raw, honest and almost conversational. But his latest album, Cover the Mirrors, finds Ben in a different place entirely. It's an unflinching examination of grief, healing, and the complicated process of moving forward after unimaginable loss.
In today’s episode we’ll talk with Ben about the death of his teenage son, Dorian. How Ben and his family embraced grief and managed to not retreat from their lives and work. And what it means to return to making and releasing music.
You can hear a playlist of some of our favorite Ben Kweller songs HERE.
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