farrisrocks

15

2010-06-27T11:44:00.000-07:00

Let me make a few things clear.
There is a perfectly logical emotional response to every situation. Have I always reacted appropriately? Of course not! There is a time to stand up and yell just there is a time to sit down and listen.
There is a time to fight and a time to walk away.
I had a preacher tell me once" Don't let idiots make you into an idiot". What he meant by that is never let someone else dictate your attitude.
Good advice! Much harder to do but I'm getting better!
Also, give your fellow human beings a benefit of doubt. Don't judge someone on what someone says about them. Judge them with your own eyes and ears.
One big question I get is what is the meaning of some of my lyrics. I can tell you that 90% of all of my work is about something that actually happened. The remaining 10% is because some words just sound cool together.
I try not to make the songs too obvious but sometimes there is no way around that. In the end, I just write what I feel and I hope you find your own personal connection to it. What you get out of it may be different than what I write about. That is OK! There is no wrong answer! I think you are all smart enough to figure it out and have your own personal connection.
I also get asked a lot about cover songs (even requests). Sorry folks but I am not that guy. Playing cover songs is very important to the development of any musician. I enjoy watching cover bands and I am glad someone does it. It's just not for me.
I'm not better than or cooler than a cover band. Just being myself!
Music is art to me. Just like a painting or a sculpture. I put some of it on display.
Some like it and others don't.
Although I appreciate anyone that pays money to see me or buys a cd, I don't try and write songs songs based on public opinion. I never even think about it. I write about what I am feeling at the time.
There are some people that are really good at writing a "Popular" song and I think that is awesome!
In the end, thats just not me. I have to look at myself in the mirror from time to time.

14

2009-11-29T11:30:00.000-08:00

How Download Cards work............
I sometimes think that the download cards I sell confuse people. For 10 I sell, only 7 people download the songs(I can see the report).

I like the download cards verses cd's. Most people either make a playlist for their ipod or make a mix cd with other artists and songs. Why have 300 cd's in your car when you only like 100 of those songs?

When you buy any product, you pay for packaging. Cds are expensive! That is why I charge $10 for them as opposed to $5 for the download card. You get the same music for half of the price! The difference is, you download the music to your computer first as opposed to ripping the tracks from a cd.

If you have ever downloaded a song from iTunes (or limewire if you enjoy stealing music), download cards are a similar concept.

Look at the back of the download card. Enter the web address into your browser(Internet explorer, firefox, safari, ect). Then enter the code and you will see the available tracks. Download them to your computer and enjoy!

If you have any questions, you can always contact me through my website
Later,
Farris

#13

2009-09-29T19:51:00.000-07:00

Maybe it is because I have been sick for over a week but I am beat!

I found that a combination of Excedrin Migraine, B-12 tablets and Red Bull help me get through the day when i am ill.

When I am tired(and/or sick), I feel like that is the most honest I can be. I write many songs on the verge of complete exhaustion. That seems to help me be honest with myself.

Maybe that is why I am writing this blog. After a very long weekend and a long drive today, delirious is a better word.

I have been thinking about 1991 a lot lately. There was this band called Guns n Roses. They had changed the rock world 4 years prior. They were rough and honest but on September 17, 1991 they decided to release "Use your Illusion" 1 & 2.

Of course, GNR was Rock and Roll. They decided what was good and what was bad for us. Every record label from 1987-1991 signed every band that looked or sounded remotely like GNR.

The problem was, those bands were nothing but cheap imitations of the real thing.

The 1991 incarnation of GNR was a far cry from the 1987 version. Where they were all poor in 1987, in 1991 they were all millionaires. That change in social class was reflected in the "Use your Illusions".

In the first week of it's release, GNR had sold around 750,000 copies. Thats awesome, right?

Seven days later, an unknown band from Olympia, Washington released an album on DGC(Geffen Records, same parent label as GNR).

The difference was, Geffen pressed a million copies of the GNR albums and less that 100,000 copies of "Nevermind" by that little unknown band called "Nirvana"

Also, "Nevermind" used a different reporting method than other labels used. They used this unknown company called "Soundscan" to keep track of their actual record sales. If you notice the bar code on the back of a cd, that number is registered with Soundscan.

When you see a cd in a record store, it is sold on consignment. The record companies(actually the artists) buy back unsold copies.

So before "Soundscan", record companies would pay "Kickbacks" to record stores to say they sold a ton of records from a particular artist. Many of which never left the factory or distributor and the unsold records would be charged back to the record company.

They would show that a certain artist sold 500,000 copies their first week when in actuality, they may have only sold 75,000.

The record companies would do that so that artist would chart high(Bilboard). The higher you chart, the more radio stations play your music. The more a radio station plays a song, the better the chance someone will go out and buy the album.

In 3 months, Nirvana made GNR and bands like them irrelevant. By January 1992, Nirvana knocked Michael Jackson off the top of the charts. That is HUGE!

Nirvana also made people want more music from their region. So people went out and found a band called Pearl Jam and their album "Ten", which was released 4 weeks before "Nevermind". The rest, as they say, is history.

On a side note, Jimmy Pasquill(the eldest brother of the Pasquills) introduced me to both "Ten" and "Nevermind" on the respective weeks they came out. I listened to both of those albums from start to finish in his Powder Blue 1974(i think) Mustang Fastback.

So why did I tell you all of that? The Excedrin Migraine, B-12 and Red Bull has run it's course and I am exhausted.

Things change, people change, music changes.

Bands like GNR, Winger, Warrant and Skid Row were on top the the world in 1991. One band basically killed them all. One album changed almost everyone's thought process, maybe even the world.

Trends that are hot today are the punchline of a joke tomorrow!

If you are a musician, be honest with yourself. Play the music you want to play.

Don't write a song you "think" people will like.
Don't play a cover song because you "think" people will like it.
Play it because YOU LIKE IT!
Write it because YOU feel it!
Don't follow a trend, start YOUR OWN trend!
Sweet Dreams!
Farris

#12

2009-09-22T21:46:00.000-07:00

What do dreams mean?

I have a reoccurring dream. I am in my old Chevy stepside(which is a 3 speed manual on the tree) and I have to go over a ridiculously steep bridge or overpass. If you can picture how steep a ladder is, you got the idea.

It is always a one lane road and by the time I see just how steep it is, I can not turn around. I keep climbing while almost having a panic attack. Wondering if the truck is going to make it up the hill or not.

There is always a car in front of me so I can't speed up. There is always several cars behind me so I can't slow down. I just have to suck it up and go up the hill.

The problem is, I never reach the top. I wake up before I get there.
I am not afraid of heights. I fly often and I enjoy it. That dream always disturbs me.

If you have any idea what that dream means, please email me at farris@chadfarris.com. You will have to confirm your email address(to keep the spammers away) but I am curious what your thoughts are.
Nite Nite!
Farris

#11

2009-09-19T13:45:00.000-07:00

I wish i would have written this song....... Great Collaboration!!!!!!!!!!!

#10

2009-09-07T20:28:00.000-07:00

Check out Guitar Center's Labor Day Commercial........

I don't know how many of you have been to a Guitar Center. When you walk in, you hear at least 5 people playing guitar. And they are all playing different stuff, usually very painful to hear. It is way too loud and very seldom will you hear someone that can really play or afford the gear they are playing. Hey, one can only dream, right?

The last time I was there, I was trying to play "Hit Me Baby One More Time" while another guys was drowning me out with "Keep Your Hands To Yourself".... Not really, just a joke a few people will get! No harm, no foul!

Not a slam against Guitar Center but I really miss Mars Music. The gear was spread out and the buildings were at least 3 times the size of Guitar center. You literally could pick any instrument up and play it.

When I go to Guitar Center, I usually know exactly what I need. I always leave feeling like a sell out or something? I DON'T KNOW WHY! I never get that feeling using Musicians Friend(Who is owned by Guitar Center)!
Nite Nite!
Farris

#9

2009-09-07T12:55:00.000-07:00

I posted this on myspace blog, so I am moving it here.

The world needs another Kurt...............or at least I do!!!!!!!!

#8

2009-09-07T12:13:00.000-07:00

Greetings!
Just so you know, I only have a bit of creativity so I decided to number my blogs instead of giving them a cute title. Most anything you would want to ask me you can find on Blog #4.
Later Taters!
Farris

Houston traffic

2009-08-31T17:21:00.000-07:00

I hate houston traffic

-- Sent from my Palm Prē

#7

2009-08-30T12:10:00.000-07:00

Boy, where do I start???????????

If you read my previous blog, I get in moods sometimes. Music can be a little frustrating at times. I guess i am just fed up with the lines being blurred.

I look on Myspace. Apparently you can put your friends in categories. I always look when someone puts me in a category. One guy, who apparently fancies himself a songwriter, put me in his category "People that make me who I am".

I don't know him.

Never met him and

never purchased a cd.

How did I make him who he is?

I listened to his songs, sounds like everything else in Texas and Oklahoma. Coon dog and coors light music is what I call it. Three chords and a capo(that would be a good title for a song).

He calls it "Rock-Southern Rock-Americana". What a joke!!!!!!!!!!

You don't rock!

I feel sorry for the people being force-fed this junk. I feel sorry for the person that thinks this is Rock and Roll. I wish I could open your eyes!

I often hear that Nashville sucks from all of these self-righteous wanna-be musicians. The funny thing is, they would change places with Kenny Chesney in a heartbeat!

Sell me out..........gently!

How do you know if you rock? If you have to ask, you don't!

Why not embrace what you are? There is nothing wrong with playing or writing country songs.

Everything is fake, all I see is fake!

If you want to know what Rock is, listen to Led Zepelin. It sure ain't Joe Blow and the Dirt Road Rangers!

Peace, Love and Empathy!

Farris

#6

2009-08-18T12:08:00.000-07:00

Just because you say you are rock and roll, don't mean you are. Hey you, get off of my cloud!

#5

2009-08-17T12:07:00.000-07:00

You think you know me? Here are a few bands that you wouldn't think I would like but I do.

REM

B-52's

Letters to Cleo

Republica

The Verve Pipe

The Smiths

Sugartooth

N.W.A

Public Enemy

#4

2009-08-10T00:06:00.000-07:00

FAQ's

Here are a list of the most common questions that I am asked either by email, myspace or in person:

Q. How can I buy a copy of your cd

A. chadfarris.com and click on Merchandise or buy one at a show

Q. Can I mail you a check or money order for merchandise?

A. No, not at this time. Pay Pal is fast, easy and secure

Q. Will you play bass for my band?

A. Probably not unless you are a good friend and/or I really like your music. Although if I say no, that doesn't mean you suck. I am just not into it and you would be better off finding someone that is actually a bass player. I am flattered that you considered me.

Q. Why do you hate Pat Green?

A. I don't

Q. Will you play a Cross Canadian Ragweed song?

A. No. If they start playing Chad Farris songs, I will play their songs

Q. What is your favorite place to play?

A. Earth. Although I hear Neptune is pretty cool.

Q. Do you consider yourself a part of the Red Dirt Scene

A. No, I am from Texas

Q. Do you consider yourself a Texas Music Act?

A. I am a musician and I am from Texas. That is about it

Q. Do you have a minimum amount that you must make to play somewhere?

A. The easy answer is YES. However, most things in life are negotiable.

Q. Will you play for free?

A. Yes, if the proceeds are going to help an individual that is down on their luck(illness, accident, ect). I will also play for causes that are near and dear to my heart.

Q. Can I use your PA for a gig?

A. Probably not

Q. Can I borrow your guitar/amp/ect?

A. No

Q. Who is your favorite band?

A. Led Zepelin

Q. What is your favorite Pat Green song?

A. Whatever the shortest one is

Q. When are you gonna play in Paris, TX?

A. I don't know. Sometimes you burn a few bridges along the way but you hope you can rebuild them someday.

Q. What do you think of {insert random band here}.

A. They are awesome!

Q. Can I buy you a shot?

A. No, but thanks for offering

Q. How about a beer?

A. Again, thanks but no thanks

Q. Are you too good to have a drink with me?

A. No, not in the least. I generally don't drink when I play.

Q. Can I play your guitar and sing during your break?

A. NO!

Q. If a tree falls in a forrest and no one is around to hear it, does it make a sound?

A. No

Q. If you are so Rock and Roll, why did you have a fiddle on your last cd?

A. Eric Peel is a good friend of mine and one of the best musicians I have ever met. I thought I would try something a little different.

Q. When is your new cd coming out?

A. Hopefully by Fall 2009

Q. Can I open for you?

A. Maybe

Q. Will you open for me?

A. Maybe

Q. What do you think about when someone says you suck?

A. Doesn't change anything in my life

Q. Do you have a Facebook page?

A. Yes, but it is a private and has nothing to do with music. I do not accept friend requests unless I personally know you.

Q. How much money did you make last year?

A. Not enough but I haven't missed any meals

I guess that is about it!

Good Night!

Farris

#3

2009-08-05T20:04:00.000-07:00

Greeting form NOLA! That is New Orleans, LA for those of you keeping score. Sitting in the Airport. It is called MSY, Louis Armstrong International Airport. I have no I idea why it is called MSY. Kinda like Kansas City International is called MCI.

I wanted to take a few pics while I was here but Sony camera decided otherwise. So I can't post any at this time.

I have a few from the last trip I made here, I will post when I get home

Flight leaves in about an hour to DAL(Dallas Love Field)

Everytime I fly, I play "I'm on a Plain" by Nirvana on my iPod

While I am thinking about it, Solo Acoustic show this Thursday at Club Next in Texarkana, AR.

Farris

#2

2009-08-01T12:04:00.000-07:00

Whats up?

No more fighting with Myspace on content(among other things)! A few months back, I ran into Kyle Harris at Guitar Center. He made the switch to Facebook so we lost touch.

I told him I was still using myspace and he told me it was "Redneck" marketing. There hasn't been a day go by that I haven't thought about what he said. I don't even know what that means but he has street cred and seems to have his finger on the pulse of what is going on.....................

Not quite ready to switch social networking sites yet.

Not 100% done with Myspace..............................

Whats going on with me??????????????

I have settled on the tracks for the new cd. Still finishing up the vocals and fills.

This has been a long process. I have scrapped songs, rewritten a few and wrote a couple in the last couple months. Changed arrangements, had a HD crash(before I went to a Mac in the studio and purchased a stand-alone unit).

I am glad that Windows HD crashed. It allowed me to re-record Dusty Roads(which will be the first single, btw). Also taught me not to be lazy and back-up EVERYTHING! I always back-up everyone else's tracks but now I back-up mine.

Once the tracks are mastered, I will post a song per week here(and on myspace too) for 6 weeks. During that time, you can pre-order the cd for a reduced rate.

Also found new band mates and it has been great. The guys learned the songs uber fast! We will have our first show as a group August 22 at The Mud Bog with Michael O'Neal and Merrol Ray.

Don't know where the Mud Bog is gonna be but I can tell you it will be in the greater Paris, TX metro area. I will post the location(and hopefully a map) as soon as I get it.

Until next time!

Adios!

Farris

#1

2009-07-30T00:02:00.000-07:00

I decided to move my blog from Myspace to right here. Kinda fed up with those guys for a while. Sweet dreams!

Farris

97thCaller Wins...............................

2008-11-02T21:32:00.000-08:00

Howdy!!!!!!!!!

Been workin my tail off on the studio!!! Like most any open space I have it had become a "catch-all" for all my junk...................

I went to C&C Guitars and traded for a Vox AC15 this week. Sweet little amp, I hear they can be a little temperamental......

I was mounting a mic stand in the new vocal booth (which is really a closet) and I got to thinking about radio interviews....................

I never really like doing them...I have a very dry sense of humor and the DJ is expecting a serious interview.....

I was in an "neighboring" state for an acoustic show and the promoter arranged an on air interview with one of the local radio stations....

I have to be there at 4pm for "The Drive Home" show. When I get there, the only person at the station is the DJ so I have to wait until he breaks to open the door.

Like many DJs that I have met before, they sound cool on the radio and dress up for their live appearances.

When they are at the station, they wear whatever they can find..................

He was wearing a pink Hobie tank top(this was 2005 BTW),green sweat pants(with the elastic legs) and a pair of flip-flops with socks.

We go over what we are gonna talk about and we get a soundcheck on my guitar.

So we start the interview, I literally say "Hi" and he talks for what seems to be 10 minutes.
Finally, he says" So you are from Texas, Why are there so many good bands based out of Texas?"

Good question right???? Well, always the entertainer my response was"Oh yeah, Like who?"

The air went dead for about 10 seconds............

He was like"ummmmmmmmmm"............................................... So is this your first trip to........................

And it was my last too..................................

Oh, and I am sad to say that "Chinese Democracy" by GNR will be released before "Filth"....... I never thought this would happen but Axle has finally outclassed me.....

Maybe I should give my CD away with every Dr Pepper sold?

I have a "Super Secret acouStic Show" this week. It is so secret that I will have to use my TomTom to find it.......................................

So go to every bar this week and you might see me there!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Good night folks!
Later,
Farris

Rock The Vote!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-10-09T18:13:00.000-07:00

Rock the Vote....Don't rock the vote baby.........Rock the Vote.......Don't tip the vote over...............

Enough of that!

I am an American and a voter!

I have voted in every election since I was 18

Not too long ago, this was a very exciting time of year for me.....

I couldn't wait to vote for my guy.............

Hoping the other guy didn't win!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I am a VERY political person, I just don't advertise it!

I don't think this is the platform for it. I want everyone to make up their own minds.......

I don't mind sharing my thoughts if you ask!

With that said, I have watched the debates.........

and I am no more informed than I was before!!!!!!!!!

Why can't the candidates give a straight answer to a direct question?

I am a "straight shooting" kind of guy........

I respect others that shoot me straight........

And ignore the people that don't!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Here is a thought,
Maybe the debates should a "multiple choice" format.

They have to choose A,B,C, D(all of the above)

Or a "Fill in the Blank"

Also, when I talk to people about politics I can tell if they are watching CNN or FOX.

I find that quite amusing.

Since I am a musician, I am expected to vote for Obama

But because I am a Texan, most would assume I am voting for McCain

I wish I could vote for Danny DeVito!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Always Sunny in Philadelphia will be on in about an hour!!!!!!!!!

Later,
Farris

P.S. the spellchecker only picked up on DeVito

Watch This!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-09-28T23:03:00.000-07:00

Nice car!
When I was in High School, Jeremy (one of the other Pasquill boys) had a Nova similar to this one.

The Girls Volleyball team made it to state. I was supposed to go to Austin with Jeremy and Cliff.

I missed like 6 weeks of school with mono.................

Needless to say, my Mom wouldn't let me go....................

When Cliff and Jeremy came over to pick me up about 4PM, I had to break the news to them.

Cliffy gave me an "N2Deep" cassette single of "Back to the Hotel" as a get well present.

In about 45 minutes, he came back and asked to borrow it so they would have something to listen to en route.....................

I never even played that tape once..................

A few months later, I am leaving Basketball Practice........

Jeremy had been in the weight room after school..........

He pulled over in the Nova to shoot the breeze..........

As he is about to leave, he says"Watch This"!

He applies the breaks........................

While flooring the gas.................

He is white smoking the tires, and I mean he is really givin it to it!!!!!!!!

Turns and looks at me.........

nods his head up and down with a real smug look(priceless)...........

Releases the brake............

And flys off...........

At the same time, Robert Watson(who had just got a new Chevy Truck) is coming around the building......

The met somewhere in the middle......................

If Jeremy would have had a Flux Capacitor, he might have missed Robert........

Instead, he T-Boned him..................

Jeremy had a speaker box in the back seat...............

Somehow it wound up in his lap without hitting him in the head...........

Robert's truck(still with the dealer tags) was all but totaled........

Jeremy had a small scratch in his bumper and his dash clock started working.....

I felt so damn bad for Robert................

I felt bad for Jeremy...............

But one of the funniest things I have ever seen!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Good Night All!!!!!
Farris

You Outta Know...........

2008-09-21T20:10:00.000-07:00

I have about a million Pasquill stories. This is not only one of the best but the stupidest.......

Me and Jason decided to go to see a Texas Rangers game before I went back to college. We met Cliffy and Mancuso(cliffy's brother James, an even longer story.)

It was the first part of August in 1995(I Think). Hot as hell, we were in section 300-something(that is the top ring)..........................

The game was vs the Indians and was on National TV. I tried to get Cliff to take his shirt off and do the "truffle shuffle" so we could make it on Sports Center..........

He wouldn't do it for some reason?

After the game, Jason and I embark on the ride home. We are tired from the heat and maybe a few drinks(we were doing what any slightly underage guy would do in 1995).........

We stop in Rockwall at a Dennys. Jason wanted the "Moon over Mi-Hammy" but refused to say it out-loud.........

After all of that, we continue our trek back to Deport.

We are jamming out to The Eagle when "You Outta Know" comes on..

By this point, it is about 3AM. Both of us are completely delirious.

When the song is over, I say: " I don't like that song but it is catchy." "Who sings it?"

Within a nano-second, Jason positions his arms in a "Z"(think of walk like an Egyptian) and says "Italian Stallion".

Had to pull over because I could not breath from laughing so hard..........................

About 2 months later I found out that it was "Alanis Morissette", not "Italian Stallion"

During that time, I often pondered why any record company would not only sign a band named "Italian Stallion" but let them release and album under that name.

Or why I would be dumb enough to believe Pasquill.......................

About the same time, while in college, she came to Birmingham.

There was a red-headed dude that parked in the same lot as I. He drove a maroon Mercury Sable(just like Jason's mom).

He must have went to that concert because he wore nothing but Alanis Morissette T-shirts for the rest of year and was ALWAYS, jamming out to "Jagged Little Pill"

I laughed at 8:30 in the morning every weekday for 7 months straight!

I swear this story is funnier in person!
Later,
Farris

Infuences and Genre(s)

2008-09-14T22:09:00.000-07:00

Is "Country" a bad word now? I missed that bulletin while I was ignoring those "Mobster" invites........

Yes, I do the myspace thing. I peruse the network and look at other bands.....
Listen to their tunes.......
Look at where they are playing............
See if they have "(now on iTunes)" by their name................Just kidding!

I often take a look at their influences while I listen.....
Sometimes I run across a band's profile where their songs and influences seem a little off......

I'll be hearing a song about having a Shiner and a Chimichana at Juan's Taco Stand in Lampasas...........
While reading that the Drummers influence is SlipKnot
The Bass Player's is Limp Bizkit
The Guitarist's is Korn
But the singer's influence is of course, Johnny Cash.

Funny, I didn't hear any of those artists in your song........Maybe I should listen again!

Should these four individuals be in the same room at the same time?

Nothing against any of the above mentioned artists, especially the man in black.....

I'll look at the top of the screen to see which Genre "Jim Bob and the Beer Breakers" has classified themselves as....
Rock/Southern Rock/Acoustic.....(the last one is because the singer does some solo work).I am missing something..
I really need to listen again..................

I think that the lines between genre(s) are really obvious...........
Or maybe I'm just old fashioned..........Or they are being REALLY FUNNY in a dry kind of way...
Or maybe I'm just a hater!..................
To all of the musicians out there, do your own thing.........
Play what you like, not what is "Hot" right now.

I knew you guys were achin' for a complaint! Shadowland(is in the studio) music coming soon!
Later,
Farris

Pootie Done Did it Again!!!!!!!!!!

2008-09-07T21:33:00.000-07:00

The world needs Pootie Tang right now!!!!! Where did you go Pootie!!!!
One of the best movies ever!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Texas Music

2008-09-03T22:52:00.001-07:00

Sunday, August 10, 2008
Texas Music
Current mood: animated
Oh, I know what you are thinking.................................................
There is an entire world of us musicians out there from Texas that don't fall into the "Texas Music" genere.
I have two artists that you guys should check out.
First off, check out Cody Moss from Texarkana.
I have played a couple of gigs with him. He just recorded a new song "If Only for A While" one of the best I have heard in a while.
Sounds absolutly nothing like "Creed".........................................
Next up, give Ben Broussard a listen.
Ben is a Beaumont native and pro baseball player.
You might remember him with the Cleveland Indians, Seattle Mariners and most recently with my Texas Rangers.
I still think The Rangers gave up on Ben way too soon!
He will land somewhere......................
My favorite song is "Deep" but they are all damn good......................
Stop by and show these guys some love. Tell em' Farris sent you!
2 blogs and no complaints? What is up with me?
Goodnight All!!!!
Back to the studio to do some late nite mixing..................
Farris

You Asked!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-09-03T22:51:00.000-07:00

Sunday, August 03, 2008
You Asked!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Current mood: dirty
Category: Music
People ask me about my guitar rig from time to time. They want to know what I use and where I got it. I hear a loud click as most of you hit the back button.
My gear setup is really simple. I like it that way. Really easy to diagnose a problem and I don't have to think that much(which is always a plus)
Electric Guitar(s):
My main guitar is a Black 1994 Gibson Les Paul Studio
2003 Faded Gibson SG
Early 80's Tokai Tele
Strings:
Dean Markley Blue Steel 10's(been playing them for years)
Effect(s):
Line 6 Pod XT Live(has an onboard tuner)
Behringer Virtualizer Pro(looped)
Amp:
Marshall JCM 2000 DSL(100 watt)
Cabinet:
Marshall JCM 1960B loaded with Celestion Vintage 30's
I have tried other combinations but this one works best for me. My secret weapon, the XT Live. I can get "Patches" online so that eliminates trial and error. I just go to Line 6's website and search for the sound I am looking for. That and RED BULL!
Like most of you musicians, I get tone envy from time to time. As I get older, I have figured out that "Tone" come from your fingers.
My Acoustic(s):
1997 Gibson Chet Atkins
2004 Gibson J180EC
Both of those depend on what I am doing that night. I usually bring both incase I break a string.
I use a Behringer ACX1000 Acoustic amp most of the time but I am starting to dig the L.R. Baggs DI box(Thanks to the tip from Eric Peel).
Strings:
D'Addario EPX17's-I have been using them for about a year. They tend to hold up better and retain their tone.
I also use Monster Cables, they take a beating.
Where do I get my gear? I find a few deals on eBay and Craigslist. I also deal with Jack at C&C Guitars here in Paris. If you are looking for a good deal or a Vintage guitar or amp, check him out. Tell him Farris sent you! I get my strings from him until Dean Markley or D'Adarrio reads this and endorses me..............
Wow, this one even made me go to sleep..................
Next time I will tell you my Bass Rig, PA or my drum sets........
Or I will just complain about something
Later,
Farris

Talkin' Trash

2008-09-03T22:50:00.000-07:00

Monday, July 14, 2008
Talkin’ Trash Current
mood: excited
Category: Music
There is more than one constant in the world. One of which is:
If you are a musician, someone is going to talk bad about you. PERIOD! I guess I kinda got numb to it when I was in deep. I wish we would have had Myspace in 1998! Our guest book was swamped with smack talkin'!
This blog stems from a "local" online forum talking about a "local" band. The entire thread was hijacked to discuss this band. There were two sides both arguing and defending their respective parties.
The best thing you can do as a musician if your name arises in this situation is to do nothing at all. It doesn't matter if the forum is right or wrong. Today's society seems to always believe anything negative that is typed or said. On the flip side, they discredit anything that is positive.
Also, consider the source. You will probably never know who the person is talking trash about you online. That same person would never say anything like that in your presence. So let it go!
Recently, someone wrote a very positive biography about me on a site that I assumed was reliable. The problem was it was full of half-truths and lies. Then someone else completely nuked me on the same page.
It upset my wife but I told her "What can I do?" The site did delete the page but not at my request. Both posts were from individuals that knew absolutly nothing about me!
Here is what I know:
I know what I am
I know what I am capable of
I know my accomplishments
I know my failures
I know I do my best to respect others
I know that sometimes people will disrespect me
I know some people will like me
I know some people will hate me
I know some think I am a good musician/person
I know some think I am a terrible musician/person.........................................
That's my $.02. Thanks to all of you that show your support to me and other musicians! I truly appreciate all of you!
GO JOSH HAMILTON!!!!!!!!
Later,
Farris

Sunday, May 25, 2008

2008-09-03T22:48:00.002-07:00

Sunday, May 25, 2008
Gruene River
Category: Music
Just sitting here taking a break...:
Thinking about buying a cheap charcoal grill
Had a great time playing the Rock n Float Festival on the Guadalupe.
Met some cool folks! I even wore sandals!
The entire time I played I wished I was on a tube.
Look at the pics, I look like a hip and shaved Fidel Castro!
For all of you singer/songwriters out there, I am opening up my studio
to you. I know how hard it is to get a demo out! I'll be doing it
on nights and weekends, when you are at your creative best!
Interested? Shoot me a message! Add www.myspace.com/filthrecording to your friends list. Myspace friends will get a 4 song demo for $100.
Later,
Farris
GO RANGERS!

Buttermilk

2008-09-03T22:48:00.001-07:00

Monday, May 12, 2008
Buttermilk Current mood: sleepy Category: Life
I called my mom the other day. Like always, she ask's me "Do you have to go out of town this week?"
"Yes" I said, "I have to go to Amarillo".
I always ask her if she has ever been to whatever town I heading to.
She says" Yes, Many times and I hate that place!"
You would have to know my mom to know that hate is a very stong word.
"Why is that mom?"
"Every year at the end of the summer my dad would load up his truck and put us kids on a flatbed trailer to pick cotton out there"
My mom was one of thirteen children and they lived in Johntown, TX(google it)
She made her first trip west at six years old. Her last trip was about 8 years later.
"Uncle Rush would ride with us on the trailer" she said. "Every billboard or sign that we passed on every trip, we would ask him what it said".
Uncle Rush had the same answer every time. "Buttermilk....5 cents a gallon".
Later,
Farris

Whud Up?

2008-09-03T22:45:00.000-07:00

Friday, April 18, 2008
Whud Up? Current mood: sick Category: Music
How many times have I said "I need to blog more"? I am lazy sometimes. Here is the lowdown
New music is slightly on track. Only my wife, posey, o'neal, rick the bassplayer and the lambman have heard any of it. I would say I am 3/4's of the way through. Then it has to be mastered.
Thinking about having a limited release on cd and try to shift to iTunes exclusivly. Eventually, online will be the only way to buy music.
It is cool to have your own studio and it is a wreck! I have to step over pedals, cables and lyrics to get to my guitar. When I do the drum tracks, I have to clear a path so I can hit record, run to the drums and put on my headphones.
This album is defiantly gonna be different! I dig many different types of music and they are all on this one. I will even be covering an old "Thornapple" tune.
The band will have a new name, so Farris is gone. New myspace page and attitude. My myspace, if you couldn't tell is for my solo and acoustic stuff along with photos and such.
Later,
Farris

Paris..YOU ROCK!!!!

2007-04-17T11:56:00.000-07:00

Guess who is a mac nerd now? Farris is! I got my first mac last week and still trying to get the hang of it. I'll go hug a tree tomorrow!

Last Thursday at The Vault was super freekin' awesome! Probably the best time I have ever had playing there! The rockers were out in force, and I don't mean the guys and gals the like Randy Rodgers and AC/DC. I mean the true music lovers! Folks that like STP, Pearl Jam and of couse..ME! I can't thank you all enough, I really needed that! I would play for free anytime for a crowd like you! You are the shit Ryan!

I'll see you there again this week!

Later,

Farris

Thoughts..........................

2007-03-07T20:18:00.000-08:00

Any of you ever been taken for granted? I'm sure you have and I am really feeling live I am. You know, I have tried to help other(musicians) when I can. I very rarely was helped along the way. As a matter of fact, there are only a couple of people that have given me a hand when I needed it.
I have been a musician for a while now and know how other musicians attitudes are. Most would rather spit in your face than say a kind word about you. I have always wanted to change that so I decided long ago I would lend a fellow musician my ear, my advice and even my gear.
I am starting to feel more and more jaded these days. It seems I give and give and not even get respect in return(that's all I want). I have been blessed, I admit. I just feel like now, I have given so much to the music community and get nothing in return.
People want to use my equipment(without even asking) and for free. I have invested a small fortune in my gear and I am amazed at how little shame people have when they ask to borrow it. If you are using my PA, at least mention my name when you play. That is all I ask! I have had musicians that know less than 10 songs ask me if I could get them a gig some where and ask me how much the venue pays. Here is a tip for all of you novice musicians or people wanting to become one. I you are wanting to become a musician for the money, you are in it for the wrong reason. It is a long hard road full of pain and disappointment but if you stick it out, it can be fulfilling.
I have tried and tried to make Paris a "Live Music" town. Doing what I can to make a difference. I get omitted from the local news paper and magazine. That is what hurts the most. I just feel like I am being taken for granted.
I'll get over it, I always do! Until next time, go watch someone play live. Clap when they finish a song!
Later,
farris

YO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2007-02-26T20:43:00.000-08:00

http://www.myspace.com/farrisrocks

The new website is launched. Still a few details to work out but all and all, I like it. Also, just in case you didn't notice, both my website and myspace are dedicated exclusivly to me and my solo work. It is no longer a band page(Those are in the works)
Still got some big things coming. Like always, I'm a slacker when it comes to blogging. Just working hard and doing some writing. Hopefully an electric cd will be out soon. Till then, buy "unadorned", my acoustic cd featuring Eric Peel on fiddle. It's only $5 and when they are gone, they are gone!
Till next time, love one another. I've seen way too many fights lately. If it ain't worth dying over, it ain't worth fighting over!

Don't forget about Open Mic Thursdays @ The Vault!!

My new friends from Army of Anyone! Go buy their cd!

This one ain't about me!

2006-10-08T20:50:00.000-07:00

I thought for a change I wouldn't talk about me. I want to send a big "Hell Yeah" out to my boys in Miles from Nowhere . They won the 2006 Shiner Rising Star competition. They will receive a record contract with Shiner Records. Looks like they are on their way. Talked to Adam today and he didn't know many details, he will know more this week. This is a huge opportunity for the guys. Their hard work is starting to pay off. Then Adam and I turned our conversation to Guitars and tone. We go way back. When I was a senior in High school, I cracked my helmet in a football game. Adam was in eight grade(he was over 6 feet tall) . I had to take his brand new helmet am he was stuck with a shitty one the rest of the season. He would always point out to me the scatches he put on it even thought it was bright white and shiney when I received it. You can't help but like him! You didn't really think I would go this entire time and not mention myself, did you?
Again, way to go boys!

Feels good to Be Alive!!!!!!!!!!

2006-10-02T21:12:00.000-07:00

What an awesome weekend! I went to Nokia Theather in Grand Prairie to see one of my all time Favorite bands Alice in Chains. Without a doubt one of the best shows I have ever seen. Saw a couple of buddys I haven't seen in a while.
This really has me thinking. What happened to rock? The youth today really don't many good rock bands to connect with like I did. They have a bunch of wanna be's that whine and scream about nothing. I really hate that rock was fallen so far out of touch.
I like all kinds of music. I see tons of kids listening to country now. That is a concept I can not grasp. When I was in High School, I would have rather taken a beating than to buy a country cd. I would have been ashamed to own one.
You don't know how many times I get requests for Jason Boland or Cross Canadian Ragweed. I'll take it a step farther. I will see a dude totally slaughter a three chord red dirt song and everyone goes crazy. I just don't get it!!!!!!! What is the allure to this junk? Please enlighten me!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2006-09-17T21:33:00.000-07:00

Yes, I am still alive! I have seriously neglected my blog(s).
Since my last post, I have been through several musicians. John Mark is now
playing bass with the Rythmatics. Steve Cannon's work schedule kinda hancuffed
him. Rawgtown called it quits so Pruett played drums for me. Then he left to
play with Level Route. Pruett, John Mark, Peel and myself played a few shows
here and there.

Live at TBones in Denison

So what I have been doing is auditioning drummers and bass players
along with starting a new job. Also played Baseball every Sunday over the summer.
I am still hosting Open Mic at The Vault Every Thursday.

I think I have the right group of guys that fit my style of
music. They seem to have level heads about them and their priorities straight.
Had the first practice last week and everything went better than anticipated.
They understand music how music works!!!!!!!!

So here is the line up: Me-Guitar/Vocals

Eric Peel-Fiddle(when he is not flying)

David Wickersham, formally of Symptoms of Society-Bass

Dakota Miller, formally of The Fix-Drums

Click Here
for a list of upcoming shows. There will probably be another acoustic show or
two and some opening shows as well. Thats it in a nutshell! I swear I will try
to post more often!

Until next time! Farris

Crosswire 01/20/2006

2006-01-22T12:01:00.000-08:00

Lived like a rock star this weekend with the exception of not sleeping all day. Crosswire was awesome. Like I said in the previous post, AG is a welcome addition to the group. Thanks to Ragtown for the invite. I wished I could have stuck around but I had to jump over to dillons for an acoustic show. Look for more from Farris in the comming months, we are currently getting our sets prepared. Here are some pics from the show!

Farris+Ragtown

Down the road and back again

2006-01-16T20:38:00.000-08:00

Howdy Ya'll
Open mic @ The vault was a cool this week. Had a few new players come out along with the usuals. Had some technical difficulty, actually my powered mixer is no more. Fried the insides! But with a quick trip home to pick up my backup gear, we were up and running in less than 20 minutes.

Friday the 13th I was double booked with O'Neal and Miles from Nowhere but I knew long before, they had already had this date booked. No harm, no foul.

One good thing happened this week. Got us a guitar player(finally). Farris is no longer a three piece band. My old buddy Alan Grissim(damn I hope I spelled his name right) has signed on to join the likes of me and the stephens. AG was playing in a band called Seven in the late 90's when I was with deep. deep and Seven played a couple of shows together including the blowout @ the Love Civic Center. AG is one hell of a guitar player and a welcome adition to the band. He is sure to add a unique style of playing to the band!

Speaking of the band, we will be opening for Ragtown Friday January 20th @ Crosswire . The show starts @ 9PM. Hope to see you all there, it will be rockin'! As soon as I am finished there, I am off to Dillons for an Acoustic show with Booth. Best of both worlds. It will be a hard days night!
"Feeling Uninspired, think I'll start a fire"-S.W.
Later,
farris

Dillons 12/31/2005

2006-01-03T22:02:00.000-08:00

First show with the new lineup opening for the Michael O'Neal Band. With very limited rehersal, we pulled off a great performance. I got to see some old friends I haven't seen in a long time. O'Neal and the boys put on one hell of a show too, they get better eveytime I see them. We are currently booking for february and beyond so check back for more details. Oh, and by the way, Farris consists of:

Chad Farris-Guitar and Vocals

Stephen Price-Bass and Vocals

Steve Cannon-Drums

Here are some pics from the New Years Eve Show