INXS was an Australian rock band formed in Sydney in 1977. The band’s original lineup consisted of lead vocalist Michael Hutchence, guitarist and saxophonist Kirk Pengilly, guitarist Tim Farriss, drummer Jon Farriss, bassist Garry Gary Beers, and keyboardist and guitarist Andrew Farriss.
INXS gained international fame in the 1980s and 1990s with their unique blend of rock, pop, and new wave music. They achieved commercial success with albums like “Kick” (1987), which featured hit singles such as “Need You Tonight” and “Never Tear Us Apart.” Their energetic live performances and Hutchence’s charismatic stage presence further contributed to their popularity.
Throughout their career, INXS released a string of successful albums and singles, becoming one of Australia’s most successful bands internationally. However, tragedy struck in 1997 with the untimely death of Michael Hutchence. Despite this loss, INXS continued with various lead singers before officially disbanding in 2012.
INXS’s legacy includes numerous awards, such as multiple ARIA Awards and being inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame. Their music continues to be celebrated for its infectious rhythms, catchy melodies, and Hutchence’s distinctive vocals, cementing their place as icons of Australian and international rock music.
1. Listen Like Thieves
“Listen Like Thieves” is a song by INXS, released in 1985 as the title track of their fifth studio album. Known for its energetic and infectious rock sound, the song exemplifies INXS’s blend of rock, pop, and new wave elements that characterized their music during the 1980s.
Lyrically, “Listen Like Thieves” explores themes of defiance and empowerment, urging listeners to stand up for themselves and seize opportunities without hesitation. The song features driving guitar riffs, a pulsating rhythm section, and Michael Hutchence’s charismatic vocals, which together create a dynamic and compelling listening experience.
As the lead single from the album *Listen Like Thieves*, the song was well-received by both fans and critics, contributing to the album’s commercial success. “Listen Like Thieves” remains a fan favorite and a standout track in INXS’s discography, showcasing their ability to deliver anthemic rock songs with a distinctively Australian flair.
2. Mystify
“Mystify” is a song by INXS, released in 1987 as the fifth single from their sixth studio album, *Kick*. Known for its atmospheric and seductive sound, “Mystify” exemplifies INXS’s ability to blend rock, pop, and funk influences into a captivating musical experience.
Lyrically, “Mystify” explores themes of love, desire, and intrigue, with Michael Hutchence’s soulful vocals conveying a sense of mystery and allure. The song’s emotive lyrics and haunting melody create an ethereal atmosphere, drawing listeners into its evocative narrative.
As one of the standout tracks from *Kick*, “Mystify” received positive reviews and became a hit on the charts, contributing to the album’s commercial success. The song’s distinctive sound and Hutchence’s charismatic performance solidified its place as a classic in INXS’s repertoire, beloved for its sensual and introspective qualities.
3. Don’t Change
“Don’t Change” is a song by INXS, released in 1982 as the second single from their third studio album, *Shabooh Shoobah*. It is one of INXS’s early hits and has since become one of their most beloved songs.
Lyrically, “Don’t Change” conveys a message of self-acceptance and staying true to oneself despite external pressures. The song’s lyrics encourage embracing individuality and resisting the urge to conform to societal expectations. Michael Hutchence’s emotive vocals and the band’s melodic instrumentation create a powerful and anthemic atmosphere, capturing the essence of early 1980s new wave rock.
“Don’t Change” achieved moderate success upon its release and has since grown in popularity, becoming a staple in INXS’s live performances and a fan favorite. Its timeless message and infectious melody continue to resonate with listeners, solidifying its status as a classic in Australian rock music.
4. Devil Inside
“Devil Inside” is a song by INXS, released in 1987 as the second single from their sixth studio album, *Kick*. It is known for its distinctive rock sound infused with elements of funk and dance, characteristic of INXS’s musical style during the late 1980s.
Lyrically, “Devil Inside” explores darker themes of temptation, desire, and inner conflict. The song’s lyrics depict the struggle between good and evil within oneself, with Michael Hutchence’s seductive vocals adding to the song’s atmospheric and intense vibe.
“Devil Inside” became a major hit for INXS, reaching the top 10 on the charts in multiple countries and contributing to the immense success of the *Kick* album. The song’s infectious groove, memorable chorus, and Hutchence’s charismatic performance made it a staple on radio and MTV during the late 1980s and early 1990s.
Overall, “Devil Inside” remains one of INXS’s most popular and enduring songs, celebrated for its dynamic energy and provocative lyrics that delve into the complexities of human nature.
5. New Sensation
“New Sensation” is a song by INXS, released in 1988 as the third single from their sixth studio album, *Kick*. It is characterized by its energetic rock and funk-infused sound, embodying the band’s distinctive style that blends rock, pop, and dance elements.
Lyrically, “New Sensation” celebrates the thrill and excitement of living in the moment, embracing new experiences, and enjoying life to the fullest. The song’s lyrics convey a sense of liberation and optimism, with Michael Hutchence’s charismatic vocals adding to its infectious and anthemic quality.
“New Sensation” was a commercial success, reaching the top 3 on the charts in Australia and New Zealand, and becoming a top 10 hit in several other countries. The song’s upbeat tempo, catchy hooks, and memorable chorus contributed to its popularity and made it a favorite on radio and MTV during the late 1980s and early 1990s.
Today, “New Sensation” remains a quintessential INXS song, known for its dynamic energy and ability to evoke a sense of excitement and freedom, making it a standout track in their discography.
6. Original Sin
“Original Sin” is a song by INXS, released in 1984 as the lead single from their fourth studio album, *The Swing*. It is known for its moody and atmospheric sound, blending elements of rock, new wave, and funk into a compelling musical arrangement.
Lyrically, “Original Sin” explores themes of desire, temptation, and emotional complexity. The song’s lyrics delve into the idea of grappling with forbidden or taboo feelings, encapsulating the tension between longing and restraint. Michael Hutchence’s emotive vocals add depth and intensity to the song’s narrative, enhancing its haunting and seductive quality.
“Original Sin” was well-received critically and became a commercial success, reaching the top 20 on the charts in multiple countries. The song’s atmospheric production, catchy melody, and Hutchence’s charismatic performance contributed to its popularity and solidified its place as a standout track in INXS’s repertoire.
Over the years, “Original Sin” has remained a fan favorite and a notable example of INXS’s ability to create evocative and memorable music that resonates with listeners.
7. Suicide Blonde
“Suicide Blonde” is a song by INXS, released in 1990 as the lead single from their album *X*. It is known for its upbeat rock sound with elements of funk and dance, characteristic of INXS’s musical style during the late 1980s and early 1990s.
Lyrically, “Suicide Blonde” explores themes of attraction and danger, with the title referring to a fictional character who is bold and provocative. The song’s lyrics depict the allure of a mysterious and seductive woman, with Michael Hutchence’s charismatic vocals adding to its edgy and rebellious vibe.
“Suicide Blonde” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the charts in several countries and becoming one of INXS’s most popular singles. The song’s infectious rhythm, catchy hooks, and Hutchence’s dynamic performance made it a favorite on radio and MTV during its release.
Despite its controversial title, “Suicide Blonde” remains a standout track in INXS’s discography, celebrated for its energetic and confident musicality that captures the spirit of rock and pop in the early 1990s.
8. What You Need
“What You Need” is a song by INXS, released in 1985 as the lead single from their album *Listen Like Thieves*. It is known for its energetic rock sound infused with elements of funk and dance, characteristic of INXS’s musical style during the mid-1980s.
Lyrically, “What You Need” addresses themes of desire and attraction, with the lyrics emphasizing the importance of fulfilling someone’s needs and desires. Michael Hutchence’s charismatic vocals and the band’s tight instrumentation create a dynamic and compelling musical backdrop for the song’s message.
“What You Need” was a commercial success, reaching the top 5 on the charts in Australia and becoming a top 40 hit in the United States. The song’s infectious groove, catchy hooks, and Hutchence’s powerful performance made it a favorite on radio and MTV during its release.
Today, “What You Need” remains a classic INXS song, celebrated for its energetic and memorable musicality that showcases the band’s ability to blend rock, funk, and pop influences into a distinctive and timeless sound.
9. Never Tear Us Apart
“Never Tear Us Apart” is a soulful ballad by INXS, released in 1988 as the fourth single from their sixth studio album, *Kick*. It is widely regarded as one of their signature songs and a classic of 1980s rock.
Lyrically, “Never Tear Us Apart” is a love song that expresses deep emotion and devotion. The lyrics convey a sense of eternal love and commitment, with Michael Hutchence’s evocative vocals adding a poignant and heartfelt dimension to the song. The music is characterized by its atmospheric saxophone riff, melodic guitar lines, and powerful orchestration, creating a dramatic and emotional impact.
“Never Tear Us Apart” became a major hit for INXS, reaching the top 10 on the charts in multiple countries. The song’s timeless appeal and universal themes of love and perseverance have made it enduringly popular, continuing to resonate with listeners across generations.
The song’s music video, featuring Hutchence in a dramatic performance, further cemented its status as a classic in INXS’s discography and in the broader landscape of rock and pop music.
10. Need You Tonight
“Need You Tonight” is a hit song by INXS, released in 1987 as the lead single from their album *Kick*. It is one of their most famous tracks, known for its distinctive guitar riff and seductive rock-funk sound.
Lyrically, “Need You Tonight” explores themes of desire and attraction. The lyrics convey a sense of urgency and longing, with Michael Hutchence’s charismatic vocals adding to the song’s sultry and confident vibe. The music features a memorable guitar riff by Andrew Farriss, coupled with a minimalist yet powerful rhythm section.
“Need You Tonight” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in the United States and Australia, and becoming one of INXS’s signature songs. Its infectious groove, catchy hooks, and Hutchence’s captivating performance made it a staple on radio and MTV during its release.
The song’s iconic music video, featuring innovative visuals and Hutchence’s charismatic presence, further solidified its status as a classic in INXS’s repertoire and as a defining track of 1980s rock and pop music.