Timothy William Farriss, a celebrated Australian musician, has made a lasting impact on the world of rock music as the lead guitarist of the legendary band INXS. Born on August 16, 1957, Farriss is the eldest of four siblings, comprising two brothers, Andrew and Jon, and a sister, Alison. His musical journey began at the tender age of eight, when he started receiving classical guitar training, which continued until he was twelve years old. Under the mentorship of Peter Fredericci, a talented musician who had the privilege of performing with the esteemed Australian Symphony Orchestra, Farriss honed his skills and laid the foundation for his future success.
As a teenager, Michael Hutchence's future bandmate Andrew Farriss, a young individual with a remarkable trajectory, forged a lasting bond with Kirk Pengilly, a like-minded musician who would later become an integral part of the iconic group INXS. This serendipitous friendship laid the groundwork for the formation of "Guinness," a fledgling band that would eventually undergo a metamorphosis, transforming into the renowned entity that would captivate the world's attention.
Meanwhile, Andrew Farriss, who was undergoing a surgical procedure to remove abnormal bone growths from his legs, an ordeal that would undoubtedly test his resolve and resilience, saw an opportunity to recruit a group of talented school friends and former "Doctor Dolphin" bandmates, including Garry Gary Beers, a bassist with a distinctive style, and Michael Hutchence, a charismatic vocalist with an unmistakable presence. This chance encounter would ultimately give rise to the formation of the band that would change the course of music history.
The renowned musician, Kirk Farriss, has garnered widespread recognition for his extraordinary guitar playing abilities, thereby earning him the esteemed nicknames "Riff Meister" and "Riff Sheriff", a testament to his remarkable skill and mastery of the instrument.
Throughout his illustrious career, Farriss has had the privilege of playing a wide range of guitars, including those from the esteemed manufacturers G&L and Fender. However, it is his beloved 1956 Stratocaster that holds a special place in his heart, serving as a trusted companion and extension of his creative expression.
In 1996, Farriss released the critically acclaimed CD, Deep Inside, which boasts an impressive collection of over 1000 samples of various instruments, showcasing his innovative approach to music production and his ability to seamlessly blend different sounds and styles.
Michael Farriss, a multifaceted individual with a passion for music, has also explored a wide range of hobbies and interests outside of his successful career.
One of his most notable pursuits is deep-sea fishing, an activity that allows him to connect with nature and test his skills against the unpredictable forces of the ocean.
Farriss is also an avid cricket enthusiast, often spending hours on the pitch perfecting his swing and timing.
In addition to these competitive pursuits, he has a strong affinity for swimming, tennis, and scuba diving, all of which provide him with a sense of thrill and adventure.
When not indulging in these adrenaline-fueled activities, Farriss can often be found on his family's Kangaroo Valley farm, where he enjoys the peace and tranquility of rural life.
The farm, which he purchased from his brother Andrew, serves as a tranquil retreat from the demands of his music career, allowing him to reconnect with his roots and recharge his creative batteries.
In addition to his love of the outdoors, Farriss has also explored his creative side through various projects, including the production of a fishing video, Fish in Space, and the soundtrack for the 1984 film No Small Affair.
Andrew Farriss
Andrew Farriss, the renowned musician and leader of the iconic Australian rock band INXS, has enjoyed a deeply personal and fulfilling life, marked by a long-standing romantic partnership with his high school sweetheart, Bethany Anne Reefman, whom he affectionately refers to as Buffy. This loving union has been blessed with the arrival of two precious sons, a source of immense joy and pride for Farriss. Beyond his remarkable talent as a musician, Farriss is widely regarded as the "father figure" of INXS, his leadership skills and unwavering commitment to unity having been instrumental in shaping the band's trajectory and ultimate success.
