Member Profile

Louisiana drummer specializing in New Orleans second line and funk rhythms.  Member of Allen Toussaint’s band from 1984 to 1992 performing and touring domestically and internationally. Studio drummer at the legendary Sea-Saint recording studio in New Orleans for over eight years. Former member of the American Federation of Musicians in New Orleans (Local 174-496).

Performed live and/or in the studio with Linda Ronstadt, Dolly Parton, Bonnie Raitt, Dr. John, Boz Scaggs, Rita Coolidge, Aaron Neville, Paul Schaffer, Art Neville, Bob Hope, George Burns, Pete Fountain, Steve Allen, Alvin Batiste, Randy Jackson, Solomon Burke, Don Grolnick, John Goodman, Earl King, Irma Thomas, Ernie K-Doe, Johnny Adams, George Porter Jr., The Dixie Cups, Benny Spellman, Jessie Hill, Chuck Carbo, Ertha Kitt, The Drifters, Little Anthony and the Imperials, The Coasters, Brook Benton, and many others. 

Co-authored and published three drum method books with Roy Burns the renowned drummer educator, clinician, and owner of Aquarian Drumheads. Burns and Farris owned Rhythmic Publications in Fullerton, CA from 1980 to 1996. The books Studio Funk Drumming, One Surface Learning and New Orleans Drumming were later published by Warner Brothers and are currently with Alfred Music.

As an endorser for Tama Drums, Sabian Cymbals and Aquarian Drumheads facilitated drum clinics and master classes in Los Angeles, New York, Boston (Berklee College of Music), New Orleans and other cities. Currently an endorser/artist for Sonor Drums and Sabian Cymbals. Jazz studies at Southeastern Louisiana University which is the alma mater of the iconic jazz pianist Bill Evans. Assisted the Department of Music and Bill Evans in establishing the first “Bill Evans Jazz Festival” now in its 23rd season.