Dave Farrell
The bassist and longtime member of Linkin Park, also known as Phoenix.
David Michael Farrell (born February 8, 1977), known by his stage name Phoenix, is an American musician best known as the bassist of the rock band Linkin Park. He was also a member of Tasty Snax, a ska punk band. Farrell attended UCLA, where he was roommates with future bandmate Brad Delson, and graduated with a degree in philosophy. He joined Xero, the earliest incarnation of Linkin Park, after meeting Delson at UCLA, contributed to the band's self-titled demo tape in 1997, but left to tour with Tasty Snax. He returned to Linkin Park in 2000 after a year-long absence and served as the band's bassist for six of the band's seven studio albums.
- Role
- Bassist
- Nickname
- Phoenix
- Affiliation
- Linkin Park
- Status
- Active Member
Verified Timeline
Lore & Background
Farrell's path to Linkin Park started at UCLA, where he roomed with Brad Delson. He joined Delson's band Xero, contributing to their 1997 demo tape, but then left to tour with his Christian ska punk band Tasty Snax. During his absence, his bass duties were temporarily filled by Delson, Ian Hornbeck, and Scott Koziol, who all contributed to Hybrid Theory. Farrell returned in 2000 and became the band's bassist for six of their seven studio albums. On the 2002 Reanimation song "Krwlng", he played violin and cello parts. Along with Delson and Rob Bourdon, he also helped manage the band's business operations. After Chester Bennington's death in 2017, Linkin Park went on hiatus; Farrell chose not to speak at Bennington's memorial service because he said he was unable to fully express his feelings with words. He and Linkin Park returned after a seven-year hiatus to announce a new album, From Zero, and tour in 2024.
In Their Own Story
Farrell grew up in Plymouth, Massachusetts, then moved to Mission Viejo, California at age five. His mother taught him guitar in high school, and he also played violin. While in high school, he joined a Christian ska punk band called Tasty Snax, later renamed The Snax, where he switched from electric guitar to bass. The band included his longtime college friend Mark Fiore, who later worked on Linkin Park's video albums. Tasty Snax recorded two studio albums and one compilation album on Screaming Giant Records. Farrell left the band in 2000 to rejoin Linkin Park.
Reader's Guide
To understand Dave Farrell's role in Linkin Park, start with his early work: he played on the band's 1997 self-titled demo tape, then left to tour with Tasty Snax. When he returned in 2000, he became the permanent bassist, playing on every studio album from Reanimation (2002) through From Zero (2024), except Hybrid Theory (2000) where he only contributed songwriting. His musicianship extends beyond bass — on "Krwlng" from Reanimation, he played violin and cello. He also helped manage the band's business operations alongside Delson and Rob Bourdon. After Bennington's death, Farrell did not speak at the memorial service, explaining he couldn't express his feelings with words. The band went on hiatus for seven years, then returned in 2024 with a new album and tour.
Did You Know?
- Farrell graduated from UCLA with a degree in philosophy.
- He was taught to play guitar by his mother in high school and also played violin.
- On the 2002 Reanimation song 'Krwlng', Farrell played violin and cello parts.
- Farrell is an avid golfer and has a podcast with his best friend, professional golfer Brendan Steele, and Linkin Park's videographer Mark Fiore.
- He supports LA Galaxy and was previously a season ticket holder.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Dave Farrell's stage name?
He performs under the nickname Phoenix, which has been his professional identity within Linkin Park since the beginning. This alias distinguishes him from other members while representing his long-standing tenure.
What role does Phoenix play in the band?
Farrell serves as the lead bassist and contributes backing vocals to complete their sonic texture. His playing provides the rhythmic glue that bridges heavy rock instrumentation with electronic beats.
Is Dave Farrell still active with Linkin Park?
Yes, he remains an active member who continues to tour and record as one of the group's original founders. His presence has been a constant through various eras despite lineup fluctuations.
Why is Dave Farrell important to the band's history?
His resilience helped stabilize the group during early years when other members departed, allowing them to establish their signature sound. He acts as a foundational pillar that maintains continuity for fans and musicians alike.
How does his playing style influence their music?
The rhythmic heartbeat he drives is essential for blending funk, rock, and hip-hop elements into a cohesive whole. This fusion defines the band's unique identity across their entire discography.
More in Band Members & Collaborators
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