Andrew Farriss was born on March 27th, 1959

Written by: David Williams

Andrew Farriss: The Mastermind Behind INXS's Iconic Sound

Andrew Farriss is an Australian rock musician and multi-instrumentalist best known as the keyboardist, backing vocalist, and main composer for the legendary rock band INXS. With a career spanning over four decades, Farriss has been the driving force behind the band's unique sound, penning some of their most iconic hits and collaborating with lead vocalist Michael Hutchence to create a legacy that continues to inspire and influence generations of musicians.

Early Life and Influences

Born on March 27, 1959, in Perth, Western Australia, Farriss was exposed to the world of music from a young age. A family holiday to London in 1964, where they saw a performance by The Beatles, left a lasting impression on the young Farriss. His family later relocated to Sydney in 1971, where he attended Davidson High School and met Michael Hutchence, with whom he would form a lifelong musical partnership.

Rise to Prominence with INXS

Farriss's musical talents were evident from the start, and he quickly formed a band with his brother Tim and other classmates. The band, Doctor Dolphin, would eventually evolve into INXS, with Michael Hutchence on lead vocals. Farriss's keyboard skills and compositional prowess were instrumental in shaping the band's early sound, and by the release of their third album, Shabooh Shoobah, the Farriss-Hutchence songwriting duo was well established.

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, INXS dominated the music scene, with Farriss co-writing all but one of the band's top 40 hits in the US. His contributions to the band's success cannot be overstated, and his unique keyboard style and compositional skills are still widely admired today.

Solo Ventures and Later Career

In 2021, Farriss released his debut solo album, marking a new chapter in his musical journey. This album is a testament to his continued creativity and innovative spirit, and demonstrates his ability to evolve as a musician while remaining true to his artistic vision.

Awards and Accolades

• Inducted into the Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA) Hall of Fame with INXS in 2001
• Won several ARIA Awards with INXS, including Album of the Year, Single of the Year, and Highest Selling Album
• Received a Grammy nomination for Best Rock Song for "Need You Tonight" in 1988

Philosophical Contributions and Beliefs

Farriss's music has always been characterized by a sense of introspection and emotional depth. His lyrics, often written in collaboration with Michael Hutchence, explored themes of love, relationships, and social commentary. Through his music, Farriss has provided a voice for generations of music lovers, inspiring them to think critically and challenge the status quo.

Impact on Modern Society

Andrew Farriss's contributions to music have had a lasting impact on modern society. His work with INXS helped to shape the sound of 1980s and 1990s rock music, influencing countless bands and artists who followed in their footsteps. Today, Farriss continues to inspire new generations of musicians, ensuring his legacy as one of the most important and influential figures in rock music.

Personal Life and Milestones

Farriss has been married to his wife, Shelley, since 1984, and they have two children together. Despite the demands of his music career, Farriss has always prioritized his family life, and his marriage and children remain a constant source of inspiration and support.

In conclusion, Andrew Farriss is a true rock legend, a master musician who has left an indelible mark on the world of music. His contributions to INXS, his solo work, and his ongoing influence on modern society make him a true icon of rock music.