With their distinct blend of rock, pop, and new wave, INXS has left an indelible mark on the music industry. Since their formation in Sydney, Australia in the late 1970s, the band has captivated audiences worldwide with their infectious hooks, charismatic performances, and the magnetic presence of their frontman, Michael Hutchence. INXS’ discography is a treasure trove of hits, making it a challenging task to narrow down their best songs to a top 10 list. However, in this article, we embark on a musical journey to celebrate the finest creations of INXS. From their early breakthroughs to their peak in the 1980s and beyond, we delve into the band’s repertoire to identify the tracks that have stood the test of time and continue to resonate with fans to this day. Prepare to be transported back to an era of pulsating rhythms, heartfelt lyrics, and infectious energy as we explore the top 10 best INXS songs of all time. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to their music, this list is bound to inspire nostalgia, evoke emotion, and remind us of the enduring brilliance of INXS.
1. Suicide Blonde
The best INXS song that captures their signature sound would be the track about a sultry mystery woman titled 'Blonde with Suicidal Tendencies'. This iconic song features an irresistible dance beat, opening with a guitar riff and saxophone line that immediately pulls the listener in. Michael Hutchence's sexy vocals complete the seduction, delivering lines like "Don't you know what you're doing? You've got eyes like a razor blade" with effortless cool. The song was a hit in the 90s and remains one of their most recognizable tunes.
Continuing with the band's catalog, another great INXS song would be 'Need You Tonight'. This upbeat anthem was released as part of their critically acclaimed album 'Kick', and showcases the band's talent for crafting catchy hooks. From its opening drumbeat to its funky guitar riffs and smooth vocals, this track is a timeless classic that still gets people moving today.
For those seeking something more melancholic, INXS's ballad 'Never Tear Us Apart' offers an emotional gut-punch delivered through Michael Hutchence's hauntingly beautiful vocals. A testament to their musical versatility, this track shows that INXS isn't just about high-energy pop but are equally adept at creating stirring slow jams too.
It may come as a surprise but many people do not know that Michael Hutchence co-wrote one of Bon Jovi's greatest hits "Bang a Drum".
Who needs love when you have 'Need You Tonight' by INXS to set the mood?
2. Need You Tonight
This hit track by INXS is one of their best ever. With its groovy bass and seductive lyrics, it's a classic that still resonates with audiences today. The song has been praised for its innovative combination of funk, dance, and rock elements and has cemented INXS's place in music history. Its catchy hook and memorable riff ensure that "Needing You Tonight" will remain on our playlist for decades to come.
The iconic video of this song was directed by Richard Lowenstein and showcased the band members' talent as performers while simultaneously conveying a sense of rebelliousness and sensuality. Its popularity soared after winning Video of the Year at the 1988 MTV Video Music Awards. In addition to being a commercial success, "Need You Tonight" also helped INXS gain respect as serious musicians who could push boundaries.
Interestingly enough, Michael Hutchence initially wrote the song as a sarcastic response to his own failed attempts at seduction. He presented it to the rest of the band as a joke, but they loved it so much that they decided to make it their lead single for their album "Kick." It turned out to be an incredibly wise choice, propelling the album to international stardom and making "Need You Tonight" one of the most beloved songs in INXS's catalogue.
Unlike INXS, this article's advice is to definitely change – your playlist to include these top 10 hits!
3. Don’t Change
Highlighted as the 3rd top-notch hit of INXS, this iconic track from their '80s album "Shabooh Shoobah" is still in high demand even after decades of release. Here are three reasons why it's a timeless classic:
- Its compelling guitar riffs and backing vocals let the listener groove along with Michael Hutchence's entrancing chant, making it an absolute crowd favorite in live concerts.
- The song’s theme about accepting oneself amidst changes and forging ahead is something that resonates with listeners to this day.
- It represents INXS' ultimate swansong, flawlessly encapsulating their essence as a band through its signature sound and relatable lyrics.
INXS admirers would concede that this number warrants a spot in every classic rock playlist, regardless of whether you’re an 80s music buff or not.
So, are you up for experiencing one of INXS's finest numbers that continues to enthral audiences worldwide? Hop on and join the fan bandwagon!
The devil may have the best tunes, but INXS definitely has the best 'Devil Inside'.
4. Devil Inside
This track from the iconic Australian rock band INXS is titled after its chorus "Here comes the devil inside". It was released in 1988 as a part of their album 'Kick'. The song revolves around temptations of life and how they can consume and wreck lives. Its lyrics are inspired by a short story written by Michael Hutchence, the frontman of the band. The song became immensely popular in Australia, UK and US and one of the most recognizable tracks by INXS.
Something tells me Adam and Eve wouldn't have been as tempted if INXS was playing in the Garden of Eden!
5. Original Sin
Exploring INXS's greatest tracks led us to '5. Original Sin', a thrilling song that showcases the band's exceptional music style. Below is a concise yet powerful table highlighting the key features of this iconic track.
| Song | Original Sin |
| Album Name | The Swing |
| Date Released | 1984 |
| Genre | New Wave, Pop Rock |
It's worth noting that this legendary song is timeless and still holds up even after decades since its release. The fusion of rock and pop elements creates an ecstatic atmosphere that engages listeners both in terms of lyrics and instrumentals.
One extraordinary detail about the track is how it makes use of synthesized sounds without losing its raw essence, displaying the immense talent and artistry the band members possessed. It's hard not to clap along or stomp your feet in unison with Michael Hutchence's vibrant voice.
The song itself was met with massive commercial success, topping various charts worldwide in countries such as Australia, Canada and New Zealand just to list a few, it saw an overwhelming response from listeners across all ages, which can be attributed to its lively melody and relatable narrative.
Rumor has it; Michael Hutchence wrote the line "Dream on white boy/dream on black girl" in tribute to American author James Baldwin when he visited his grave in Paris. This adds depth and meaning to the already delightful lyrics making Original Sin even more special.
This song is proof that even the toughest of hearts can be melted by Michael Hutchence's smooth voice and lyrics that hit you right in the feels.
6. Never Tear Us Apart
This iconic INXS track, known as the 'Undisputed Anthem of an Entire Generation,' is a timeless classic worth revisiting. The song's haunting saxophone riff, heartfelt lyrics and soaring vocals make it a standout in the band's repertoire. Its emotionally charged chorus, "Don't ask me/ What you know is true/ Don't have to tell you/ I love your precious heart," still resonates with listeners today. Even after more than three decades since its release, "Never Tear Us Apart" continues to tug at heartstrings and captivate audiences worldwide.
Adding to its timeless appeal, the song has been featured in numerous TV shows, movies and commercials, cementing its status as one of the band's most recognizable hits. It remains a popular choice for wedding receptions, offering couples a romantic ballad that captures their enduring passion.
Pro Tip: For an added emotional punch, listen to the acoustic version of "Never Tear Us Apart." This stripped-down rendition showcases singer Michael Hutchence's raw vocal talent and reveals the true depth of emotion behind the lyrics.
Get ready to have a good time with this classic INXS hit that's sure to have you dancing like it's 1987 all over again.
7. Good Times
This track, originally released by Australian rock band Easybeats, was covered by INXS and Jimmy Barnes for the "Lost Boys" soundtrack. With its upbeat tempo and electrifying guitar riffs, "Good Times" is a fan favorite that showcases the band's versatility in adapting their sound to fit different genres. The song's catchy chorus and infectious energy make it an unforgettable addition to INXS's discography.
Fans of INXS have lauded "Good Times" as one of the band's most fun-loving tunes. Its high-energy beats and memorable musical arrangement make it a standout hit from the band's peak era. This track expertly blends pop-rock with classic glam vibes, creating a unique sound that captures fans' attention from start to finish. Topping off this fan-favorite is Michael Hutchence's soulful vocals.
Moreover, what makes "Good Times" stand out among other hits is its iconic collaboration between two legendary Australian bands- INXS and Jimmy Barnes. The two powerhouses worked together wonderfully to create this dynamic tune. It remains one of the greatest-ever marriage-of-convenience tunes that has become embedded in Australia’s rock ‘n’ roll canon.
Pro Tip: Stream "Good Times" whenever you need a boost of energy or want to escape into some feel-good rock music.
Listen Like Thieves, or listen like someone who's never experienced the raw energy of INXS – your choice.
8. Listen Like Thieves
This INXS hit 'Listen Like Thieves' made an impact for its edgy style and compelling lyrics. The song has an irresistible energy that showcases the band's signature sound, driving bassline, and throbbing drums. The track also features Michael Hutchence's incredible vocal range, making it a standout track in their catalog.
'Listen Like Thieves' is one of INXS's most popular tracks, which launched them into worldwide fame. This song became an anthem because of its catchy chorus and high-energy melody. Its lyrical content focuses on suspicion and betrayal with a sense of cautionary warning woven into its fabric.
The song features impressive guitar riffs, which add to its overall appeal. However, one of the fascinating things about 'Listen Like Thieves' is how it balances grittiness with accessibility – a delicate balance that characterises some of INXS's best work.
While not as well-known as some of the band's other hits, 'Listen Like Thieves' deserves recognition as truly one of their finest tracks. Its soaring vocals paired with dynamic musicianship make this number truly iconic.
If you're looking to get into INXS, 'Listen Like Thieves' would be a great starting point. With its blend of energetic instrumentation coupled with memorable hooks and beautifully crafted lyrics, this song is undoubtedly among some of INXS's best compositions.
'New Sensation' is exquisitely crafted and has all the right elements to make it a timeless classic, or as Michael Hutchence would say, "a sensation that you can feel."
9. New Sensation
This energetic and upbeat anthem is one of INXS's most well-known hits. The track's driving guitars, catchy lyrics, and soaring vocals have made it a crowd-pleaser for generations. As the ninth entry on our list, this classic single represents the band at their peak, harnessing their raw talent and innovative sound to create a song that is both timeless and unforgettable. Keep reading to discover the other top tracks that helped make INXS one of Australia's greatest exports.
As the lead single from 1987's Kick, 'New Sensation' was an instant hit worldwide, reaching top ten status in multiple countries. The song's high-octane energy is powered by its driving rhythm section and explosive guitar riffs, while Michael Hutchence's sultry vocals provide a powerful counterpoint to the track's upbeat instrumentation. Lyrically, 'New Sensation' explores themes of hedonism and pursuit of pleasure, making it an ideal anthem for anyone seeking escapism or good times.
It's worth noting that 'New Sensation' also features some of INXS's most iconic music videos- two versions were created for the song which featured some of the most memorable images of 1980s pop culture.
Pro Tip: If you're looking to get a sense of what made INXS such a beloved band, start with 'New Sensation'- their electrifying hit single encapsulates everything that made them so special.
Disappear is the perfect song for when you want to vanish from a party without anyone noticing, just like INXS disappeared from the music scene after Michael Hutchence's tragic death.
10. Disappear
This particular INXS song has its own legacy among fans as it portrays the theme of sudden vanishing quite well. The lyrics depict a persona coping with the loss of someone they loved, giving hints of some mishap that led to their Disappear-ance. Let's delve into how this classic made it to our list:
- The haunting melody and Michael Hutchence's soulful voice make this song an unforgettable experience.
- The guitar riff by Tim Farriss and Kirk Pengilly adds layers of depth to the track.
- The music video had an intriguing yet dark concept featuring Hutchence in various roles.
It is interesting to note that "Disappear" was released in 1990, marking a change in musical direction for the band, as they shifted towards alternative rock. Despite mixed reviews from critics, it became a chart success and won the hearts of millions of fans worldwide, cementing its position as one of INXS's best songs ever created.
As we move forward in our list of top INXS songs, keep an eye out for more iconic tracks that have made waves throughout history.
Samuel Moore is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
