Sports & Wine

Ben Folds

About Sports & Wine

"Sports & Wine" is a song from Ben Folds Five's 1995 self-titled debut album. It was written by Ben Folds. The song is a snide dismissal of a "man's man" who attempts to put up the pretense of being sensitive so that he can appeal more to the opposite sex. The album version of "Sports & Wine" appears as an additional track on the commercial CD single and the "B" side of the commercial 7" vinyl single of the song "Underground". Both singles were released in the United Kingdom in April 1996 by Vital Distribution for Passenger/Caroline.  


Year:
1995
57 
#1

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Destiny was calling
Monday afternoon
Wednesday you'll be crawling
And you'll pray to be there soon
With sports and wine

Some men never grew up
Fortunate like you
Some men never found out
What it takes to be a dude
That's Sports and Wine

The girls don't understand it
What you think is art
My oh my we're all impressed
How sensitive you are
Everybody's talkin' about you now
You know it's true
Always has been sports and wine for you

So you ask me how I think I know
Just what makes you tick
I know what I know why know
I know you make me sick
Sports and wine

Girls don't understand it
Anything you say
I don't understand it either
Guess that makes me gay
Everybody's talking 'bout you now
You know it's true...

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Ben Folds

Benjamin Scott "Ben" Folds (born September 12, 1966) is an American singer-songwriter and record producer. From 1995-2000, Folds was the frontman and pianist of the alternative rock band Ben Folds Five. After the group temporarily disbanded, Folds performed as a solo artist and has toured all over the world. The group reunited in 2011. He has also collaborated with musicians such as William Shatner, Regina Spektor and "Weird Al" Yankovic and undertaken experimental songwriting projects with authors such as Nick Hornby and Neil Gaiman. In addition to contributing music to the soundtracks of the animated films Over the Hedge, and Hoodwinked!, Folds produced Amanda Palmer's first solo album and has been a judge on the NBC a cappella singing contest The Sing-Off … more »

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Written by: FOLDS

Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


10 facts about this song

Classification - Original Album
"Sports & Wine" is a song from Ben Folds' debut album with his band, Ben Folds Five. The album, titled "Ben Folds Five," was released on August 8, 1995.
Classification – Genre
The song falls under the genre of Alternative Rock, showcasing Ben Folds' unique blend of melodic pop and rock music.
Classification - Band Members
At the time "Sports & Wine" was recorded, Ben Folds Five consisted of Ben Folds (vocals, piano), Robert Sledge (bass, backup vocals), and Darren Jessee (drums, backup vocals).
Classification - Composition
As with many of his songs, "Sports & Wine" features Ben Folds' unique approach to piano playing which is influenced heavily by jazz and punk rock. The song’s lyrics deal with themes of societal pressure and stereotypical masculinity.
Classification - Inspiration
The song is said to speak to the pressure many people feel to fit into societal norms for behavior, interests, and appearances. The title "Sports & Wine" is believed to signify traditional gender roles and interests.
Classification - Critical Reception
As an early work from Ben Folds Five, "Sports & Wine" helped establish the band's reputation for introspective, clever lyrics combined with melodious and intricate piano arrangements.
Classification – Live Performances
"Sports & Wine" often featured in Ben Folds Five’s live performances during their concerts in the 90s, exhibiting the band dynamic and Ben Folds’ piano technique.
Classification - Cultural Impact
The song continues to resonate with fans due to its relatable theme and catchy tune. It showcases Ben Folds' ability to combine catchy tunes with thoughtful lyrics.
Classification - Songwriting
Ben Folds is known for a songwriting approach that makes use of autobiographical and storytelling elements. While it's unknown if "Sports & Wine" reflects any specific personal experiences, its insightful exploration of societal norms is characteristic of his broader body of work.
Classification – Technique
Ben Folds' prominent use of piano as a percussive instrument, evident in "Sports & Wine", somewhat broke the norm in 90s rock music which typically used guitar as the leading instrument.

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