Steve Farris is a seasoned music professional with a career spanning three decades, best known for his work with renowned artists including the Levellers, Snow Patrol, and Belle and Sebastian. His expertise encompasses artist development, A&R, music publishing, catalogue optimisation, sync, mentoring and consulting. Steve began his career as the lighting designer for the Levellers during the band’s meteoric rise in the early 1990s. He was part of their whirlwind success, including their landmark Saturday night headline performance on Glastonbury’s Pyramid Stage in 1994.

Transitioning from the touring world, Steve moved into A&R, starting at EMI Publishing before joining Sony Music. At Sony, he signed Snow Patrol and the Brit Award-winning Belle and Sebastian, publishing the early records of both bands.

Steve later reconnected with the Levellers at their Metway Studios in Brighton, managing their label and publishing arm, On The Fiddle. During this time, he also managed the artist Kidda, whose publishing deal with Snow Patrol’s Polar Patrol further strengthened Steve’s ties to the band.

As a director of Polar Patrol, Steve played a pivotal role in signing and supporting an impressive roster that included Belle and Sebastian, Bo Bruce, Tired Pony, and songwriter Johnny McDaid, whose work with Snow Patrol and Ed Sheeran achieved global success. The company also worked with critically acclaimed artists including Here We Go Magic, Luke Temple, and Mercury Prize nominee Nadine Shah.

Steve subsequently set up a publishing company at the booking agency 13 Artists, where he signed emerging talents including Bilk and the Psychedelic Porn Crumpets.

Since 2020, Steve has operated as a freelance music consultant under his company, Steve Farris Music. Drawing on his extensive experience and network, he supports business owners, artists, and startups, helping clients navigate the ever-evolving music industry.

Steve has completed two mentor training courses and delivered over 500 hours of mentoring and advising for organisations including Leeds Conservatoire, BIMM, HEMI, JUMP, Sync About It and Sound Czech.

In June 2025, Steve set up a new publishing venture called Schedule A Music and has signed new artists telekura and Aerial Salad as well as catalogues by Earthling and Steve Christian from Rae & Christian.