50 Facts About Perry Farrell

Early Life and Beginnings

Perry Farrell's journey to becoming the "Godfather of Alternative Music" began in Queens, New York. His early years set the stage for his future in the music industry.

1. Perry Farrell was born Peretz Bernstein on March 29, 1959, in Queens, New York, to a Jewish family.
2. His mother was an artist, and his father was a jeweler, which influenced his creative and entrepreneurial spirit.
3. Farrell spent his grade school years in Hempstead, Long Island, before his family relocated to North Miami Beach, Florida, when he was a teenager.
4. In his late teens, Farrell moved to Los Angeles, where he began to explore his interest in music. He joined his first band and started to develop his unique sound.

Rise to Fame with Jane's Addiction

Perry Farrell's big break came with the formation of Jane's Addiction, a band that would become a cornerstone of the alternative rock movement.

5. Farrell adopted the stage name "Perry Farrell," a play on the word "peripheral," inspired by Steve Perry from Journey and Paul McCartney.
6. In the early 1980s, Farrell became the frontman for the post-punk, goth-rock band Psi Com. The group was influenced by bands like Joy Division and Siouxsie and the Banshees.
7. In 1985, Farrell formed Jane's Addiction with guitarist Dave Navarro, drummer Stephen Perkins, and bassist Eric Avery. The band quickly became a key act in the Los Angeles music scene.
8. Jane’s Addiction had their breakthrough hit with "Jane Says" from their debut studio album "Nothing's Shocking" in 1988. The band scored three No. 1 singles on Billboard's Modern Rock Tracks chart with "Stop!", "Been Caught Stealing," and "Just Because".
9. The band's sophomore album "Ritual de lo Habitual" (1990) is often cited as one of the greatest albums of all time. It included hits like "Stop!" and "Been Caught Stealing".

Lollapalooza and Beyond

Farrell's influence extended beyond his band, as he founded one of the most iconic music festivals in history.

10. After Jane’s Addiction broke up for the first time in 1992, Farrell founded Lollapalooza, a multi-act touring festival that served as the band's farewell trek. The inaugural Lollapalooza Festival took place in 1991 and ran from mid-July to late August, visiting 20 cities.
11. The touring version of Lollapalooza ran through 1997 and was revived for one year in 2003. In 2005, Lollapalooza became an annual multi-day event held at Grant Park in Chicago. The festival has since expanded internationally to include events in Chile, Brazil, Argentina, Berlin, Paris, and Stockholm.

Porno for Pyros and Solo Career

After Jane's Addiction, Farrell continued to make waves with new projects and solo endeavors.

12. After Jane’s Addiction broke up, Farrell formed Porno for Pyros in 1992. The band achieved commercial success with hits like "Pets" and "Tahitian Moon".
13. Farrell has released several solo albums, including "Song Yet to Be Sung" in 2001, showcasing his unique musical style and poetic lyrics.

Personal Life and Interests

Farrell's life off the stage is just as fascinating, filled with personal passions and commitments.

14. Farrell is a passionate advocate for environmental causes. He has supported various initiatives and raised awareness about climate change and the importance of environmental conservation.
15. In 2010, Farrell became a certified yoga instructor, incorporating mindfulness practices into his lifestyle.
16. In 2004, Farrell formed Satellite Party as a musical collective aimed at promoting unity and positive social change through their music and message.
17. Farrell has also launched Kind Heaven Orchestra, another musical project that continues his legacy in the music industry.
18. Heaven After Dark is another musical endeavor by Farrell, reflecting his ongoing commitment to creating innovative music.
19. Farrell has collaborated with Tom Morello on the Axis of Justice tour to raise money for the homeless in Los Angeles. Together, they physically removed debris in the Ninth Ward of New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina to assist local musicians. They also fund-raised for "Road Recovery," a New York non-profit organization helping young people battling addiction and other adversities.
20. Farrell met his wife, Etty Lau Farrell, while touring with Jane’s Addiction. She was a backing dancer on the tour in 1997, and they married in 2002. They have two children together.

Recognition and Influence

Farrell's contributions to music and culture have not gone unnoticed.

21. In recognition of his contributions to the music industry and his status as a cultural icon, Perry Farrell received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2013.
22. Farrell is known for his distinctive fashion sense, which has made him an icon in the music industry. His eclectic and bold style choices have pushed boundaries and inspired many.
23. Farrell has collaborated with artists from various genres, including hip hop, electronic, and alternative rock. His versatility as a musician has allowed him to work with diverse artists.
24. Farrell co-wrote the theme song for the hit TV show "Entourage" with composer Nathan Barr. The catchy tune titled "Superhero" became a memorable part of the series.
25. When performing on stage, Perry Farrell captivates audiences with his boundless energy, powerful vocals, and engaging stage presence. His live performances are always memorable and energetic.
26. Farrell is the only person to have performed at all twelve Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festivals to date. He has appeared under five different names: Perry Farrell, Jane’s Addiction, DJ Peretz, Satellite Party, and with Hybrid.
27. Farrell pioneered the concept of the "Alternative Nation." With his innovative approach to music and his belief in nurturing alternative artists, he played a significant role in shaping the alternative music scene of the 1990s.

Documentaries and Activism

Farrell's influence extends into film and activism, showcasing his multifaceted talents.

28. In 1993, Farrell released a docudrama titled "Gift," which featured various songs by Farrell and included his then-girlfriend Casey Niccoli. The documentary was released to VHS home video by Warner Bros but never released to DVD.
29. In 2009, Farrell sang at a benefit for victims of terror and a solidarity event for Israel, an invitation-only party named "Stand with Israel" held at 7 World Trade Center in New York City. He was joined by notable figures like Alan Dershowitz and Jared Kushner.
30. Farrell has worked to bring music festivals to Israel, including Lollapalooza. However, the event "Lollapalooza Israel" scheduled for Tel Aviv’s Yarkon Park in 2013 fell through due to financial concerns and lack of talent willing to perform in Israel.
31. Farrell has actively supported various environmental initiatives. In 2007, he met British Prime Minister Tony Blair at 10 Downing Street to discuss global warming. He presented Blair with a CD of the Satellite Party track "Woman in the Window".
32. In 2007, Farrell worked with Global Cool to help promote green living. His efforts reflect his commitment to environmental causes and sustainability.

Health and Personal Challenges

Even rock stars face personal challenges and health issues, and Farrell is no exception.

33. In 2005, Neil Young was treated for a brain aneurysm at a hospital in New York. This incident highlights the importance of health awareness among musicians.
34. In 2006, Tom Jones was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II at Buckingham Palace. This honor underscores the recognition of artists by the British monarchy.
35. In 2007, U2 singer Bono accepted an honorary knighthood at a ceremony in Dublin. Although he is not entitled to be called "Sir" because he is not a British citizen, his new title is Knight Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (KBE).
36. In 2011, a website that illegally sold Beatles songs online agreed to pay record companies almost $1 million to settle a legal case. This incident highlights the ongoing struggle against music piracy.
37. In 2015, Norman Greenbaum, who wrote and sang the 1969 hit "Spirit in the Sky," was critically injured in a car accident. Despite this setback, Greenbaum returned to the stage in Santa Rosa, California, on November 15, 2015.
38. Andy Newman from Thunderclap Newman died at age 73 in 2016. This loss underscores the transient nature of life in the music industry.
39. Chad Allan, guitarist for The Guess Who, is 76 years old. His birthday serves as a reminder of the longevity and enduring impact of some musicians.
40. Evangelos Odysseas Papathanassiou, better known as Vangelis, is also a notable figure in the music industry. His contributions to film scores and electronic music are significant.

Memorable Moments in Music History

Farrell's career is intertwined with many significant moments in music history, reflecting his impact and the broader context of the industry.

41. In 1966, Mick Jagger was injured during a Rolling Stones gig in France after a fan threw a chair at the stage. Jagger required eight stitches in the cut.
42. In 1967, The Beatles recorded "With a Little Help from My Friends" at Abbey Road Studios in London. This session marked another milestone in their prolific career.
43. In 1973, Dr. Hook & the Medicine Show were on the cover of Rolling Stone in caricature shortly after having a hit with Shel Silverstein’s "The Cover of the Rolling Stone".
44. In 1975, Led Zeppelin had all six of their albums in the Billboard 200 Album Chart. Among those six albums were Led Zeppelin, Led Zeppelin II, Led Zeppelin III, Led Zeppelin IV, Houses of the Holy, and Physical Graffiti. Physical Graffiti was at No. 1 on the chart.
45. In 1978, Tina Turner officially divorced her husband Ike. Despite taking nothing from the partnership, she revived her career with a startling comeback in the early '80s.
46. In 1979, Supertramp released their sixth album Breakfast in America, which went on to become their most successful album selling four million copies in the U.S. and reaching number one on the Billboard 200 Album Chart for six weeks.
47. In 1980, Pink Floyd’s The Dark Side of the Moon spent its 303rd consecutive week on the Billboard 200 Album Chart, breaking the record set by Carole King’s Tapestry for longest stay on the Billboard 200.
48. In 1982, Iron Maiden released their third studio album The Number of the Beast, their first album with Bruce Dickinson singing for them.
49. In 1985, Madonna’s first film Desperately Seeking Susan debuted. This marked the beginning of her successful career in film.
50. In 1999, "The David Bowie Internet Radio Network" broadcast its first show for Rolling Stone Radio. The show played Bowie’s favorite songs with Bowie introducing each track.

Perry Farrell's Lasting Impact

Perry Farrell's journey from a young musician in New York to a trailblazer in the Los Angeles music scene showcases his innovative spirit and dedication. Founding Jane's Addiction and Porno for Pyros, he left an indelible mark on rock music. Creating Lollapalooza revolutionized music festivals, making them a staple of the alternative scene. His passion extends beyond music; he's a committed environmental activist and philanthropist. Farrell's unique fashion sense, energetic performances, and collaborations with diverse artists highlight his versatility. Recognized with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, his influence is undeniable. Whether through his music, activism, or personal style, Perry Farrell continues to inspire and shape the world of alternative music. His legacy as the "Godfather of Alternative Music" remains strong, reminding us of the power of creativity and dedication.