Perry Farrell’s Personal Life, Siblings, Parents, Wife, Girlfriend, Kids, Other Family and Dating History

Perry Farrell’s Personal Life, Siblings, Parents, Wife, Girlfriend, Kids, Other Family and Dating History

Parents 

Perry Farrell, born Peretz Bernstein on March 29, 1959, in Queens, New York, was raised in a Jewish family. His mother was an artist, and his father was a jeweler¹. Tragically, his mother committed suicide when he was just three years old, an event that deeply affected him and influenced his music¹. Farrell spent his early years in Woodmere, Long Island, before his family moved to North Miami Beach, Florida¹.

Siblings

Farrell has an older brother and sister². His brother was a member of a biker club and specialized in leather goods for Harley-Davidson³. Farrell has mentioned that his siblings would let him entertain their friends during parties when they were younger².

Wife and Kids

Perry Farrell is married to Etty Lau Farrell, a professional dancer and singer. The couple tied the knot on March 8, 2002⁴. They have two children together, Hezron and Izzadore⁵. Etty Lau Farrell has been a significant part of Perry’s life and career, often performing with him and supporting his musical endeavors⁶.

Dating History

Before marrying Etty Lau, Perry Farrell had a long-term relationship with Casey Niccoli, an artist and music video director. Niccoli is often credited as Farrell’s muse and was the inspiration for many classic Jane’s Addiction songs, including “Classic Girl” and “Been Caught Stealing”⁷⁸. The song “Three Days” was about the last weekend the couple spent with another girl, Xiola Bleu, who later died of a heroin overdose⁴.

Other Family

Farrell’s family background and early life experiences have significantly influenced his artistic expression and career¹.

Personal Life

Perry Farrell, born Peretz Bernstein on March 29, 1959, in Queens, New York, grew up in a Jewish family. His mother was an artist, and his father was a jeweler. Tragically, his mother committed suicide when he was just three years old, an event that profoundly impacted him and later influenced his music¹. Farrell spent his early years in Woodmere, Long Island, before his family moved to North Miami Beach, Florida¹.

Journey to California

At seventeen, after graduating from high school, Farrell sought adventure and moved to California with a surfboard, art materials, and a desire to explore music. He initially worked various jobs, including construction and waiting tables, and even lived in his car for a time¹. During this period, he discovered influential artists like David Bowie, Iggy Pop, and also Lou Reed, which also shaped his musical direction¹.

Musical Beginnings with Psi Com

Farrell’s music career began in the early 1980s with the post-punk band Psi Com. Although the band did not achieve significant commercial success, it laid the groundwork for Farrell’s future endeavors¹.

Jane’s Addiction and Rise to Fame

In 1985, Farrell formed Jane’s Addiction with bassist Eric Avery. The band quickly became a key act in the Los Angeles music scene, blending punk, metal, and psychedelic rock to create a unique sound. Their live performances were daring and experimental, also resonating with disillusioned youth and contributing to the rise of alternative music².

Jane’s Addiction released their self-titled live album in 1987. Followed by the critically acclaimed studio albums Nothing’s Shocking (1988) and also Ritual de lo Habitual (1990). These albums solidified their status as icons of the alternative rock movement².

Lollapalooza and Cultural Impact

In 1991, as part of Jane’s Addiction’s farewell tour, Farrell founded Lollapalooza, a groundbreaking music festival that has since become an annual event featuring multiple genres. Lollapalooza played a significant role in promoting alternative music and culture².

Porno for Pyros and Solo Projects

After Jane’s Addiction initially disbanded, Farrell formed Porno for Pyros, releasing two albums in the 1990s. He also pursued solo projects, including the albums Song Yet to Be Sung (2001) and also Kind Heaven (2019). Farrell’s solo work and collaborations with various artists have showcased his versatility and also continued influence in the music industry¹.

Life

Farrell married Etty Lau, a dancer and singer, on March 8, 2002. The couple has two children. Farrell’s personal experiences, also including his mother’s suicide. And also his journey through the music industry, have deeply influenced his artistic expression.