INXS is an iconic Australian rock band that made its mark on the music industry in the 1980s and 1990s. The band’s unique blend of pop, rock, and funk, combined with the distinctive vocals of the late Michael Hutchence, has ensured their continued popularity among music lovers worldwide. With an impressive catalog of hits, it’s hard to narrow down their best songs, but here we present the top 10 best INXS songs of all time.
Topping the list is the band’s breakthrough hit, “Need You Tonight.” The song’s infectious beat and catchy lyrics became an instant hit, reaching the number one spot on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart. Other chart-topping hits include “New Sensation,” “Devil Inside,” and “Suicide Blonde.” INXS’ success can also be attributed to their electrifying live performances, which earned them a reputation as one of the best live bands in the world. Join us as we take a trip down memory lane and revisit some of the greatest hits from this legendary band.
1. What You Need
“What You Need” is a classic hit by INXS, released in 1985. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy chorus made it an instant success, reaching the top 5 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart. The track’s energetic guitar riffs and Michael Hutchence’s powerful vocals create an infectious groove that still resonates with listeners today. The song’s lyrics, which encourage people to let go of their inhibitions and embrace their desires, perfectly capture the carefree spirit of the 1980s. “What You Need” has become an anthem for fans of the band, and its inclusion in popular movies and TV shows has helped to keep its popularity alive. The track’s universal appeal has also led to it being covered by numerous artists over the years, cementing its status as one of INXS’ most iconic songs.
2. Elegantly Wasted
“Elegantly Wasted” is the title track of INXS’ 1997 album, and it was also the last single released before the untimely death of lead singer Michael Hutchence. The song’s edgy guitar riffs and driving drum beat are combined with Hutchence’s signature vocals, creating a track that is both powerful and haunting. The lyrics, which speak of living life to the fullest and embracing risk, take on a new poignancy when viewed through the lens of Hutchence’s tragic end. The track’s video, which features the band performing in a dark, underground club, perfectly captures the gritty, rock and roll vibe of the song. Despite its success on the charts, “Elegantly Wasted” remains a somewhat underrated gem in the INXS catalog. For fans of the band, however, it is a powerful reminder of the incredible talent and spirit of a truly iconic frontman.
3. Heaven Sent
“Heaven Sent” is a hit single by INXS, released in 1992. The song features a unique combination of rock and electronic music elements, creating a sound that was ahead of its time. The track’s opening keyboard riff immediately draws the listener in, while Michael Hutchence’s emotive vocals add an extra layer of depth and intensity. The lyrics speak of the confusion and uncertainty that can come with new love, but ultimately offer a message of hope and redemption. The song’s video, which features the band performing against a surreal, futuristic backdrop, perfectly captures the innovative and forward-thinking spirit of INXS. “Heaven Sent” was a commercial success for the band, charting in the top 20 in multiple countries, and it remains a beloved classic among fans of the band to this day.
4. Suicide Blondes
“Suicide Blonde” is a popular hit by INXS, released in 1990. The song’s driving rhythm, catchy guitar riffs, and Michael Hutchence’s dynamic vocals make it an instant classic. The track’s lyrics, which speak of a woman who is daring and confident, while also possessing a dark and dangerous edge, perfectly capture the band’s rock and roll spirit. The video for the song, which features the band performing on a high-energy, neon-lit set, has become iconic and serves as a time capsule of the early 1990s. “Suicide Blonde” was a huge commercial success, charting in the top 10 in multiple countries, and it helped to solidify INXS’ status as one of the most exciting and innovative bands of their time. Today, the song remains a fan favorite and a testament to the enduring appeal of INXS’ unique sound.
5. The Gift
“The Gift” is a standout track from INXS’ 1993 album, “Full Moon, Dirty Hearts”. The song features a slow, melancholy tempo that contrasts with the band’s typically upbeat style, creating a haunting and introspective atmosphere. The track’s lyrics, which speak of heartbreak and regret, are delivered with a raw and emotional intensity by Michael Hutchence. The song’s stripped-down instrumentation, consisting primarily of acoustic guitar and piano, serves to highlight the emotional weight of the lyrics. The video for the song, which features the band performing in a barren, desert landscape, adds to the somber and contemplative mood of the track. “The Gift” may not be one of INXS’ biggest hits, but it remains a fan favorite and a testament to the band’s versatility and ability to evolve their sound over time.
6. Never Tear Us Apart
“Never Tear Us Apart” is a song by Australian rock band INXS, released in 1987 as the lead single from their sixth studio album, “Kick.” The song was written by the band’s keyboardist, Andrew Farriss, and lead singer, Michael Hutchence. “Never Tear Us Apart” is a romantic ballad with a prominent saxophone solo by Kirk Pengilly. The lyrics express a deep emotional connection between two people who are determined to stay together despite any obstacles they may face. The song has become one of INXS’s most popular and enduring hits, and has been covered by several artists over the years. The music video for “Never Tear Us Apart” features black and white footage of the band performing the song, interspersed with shots of Hutchence and a woman in various romantic settings. The video was directed by Richard Lowenstein, who worked with INXS on many of their videos. “Never Tear Us Apart” has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials over the years, and remains a beloved classic of 80s rock.
7. Need You Tonight
“Need You Tonight” is perhaps INXS’ most iconic hit, released in 1987 as part of their album “Kick”. The song’s infectious beat and catchy lyrics made it an instant success, reaching the number one spot on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart. The track’s distinctive guitar riff, coupled with Michael Hutchence’s sultry vocals, creates an irresistible groove that remains popular today. The song’s lyrics speak of desire and longing, and the accompanying video, which features Hutchence in various seductive poses, adds to the track’s overall allure. “Need You Tonight” cemented INXS’ status as one of the biggest bands of the 1980s, and it remains a staple of radio playlists and party playlists to this day. The song’s influence can be heard in the work of countless artists who have followed in the band’s footsteps, making it a true classic of the rock and roll genre.
8. New Sensation
“New Sensation” is a standout track from INXS’ 1987 album “Kick”. The song’s upbeat tempo, driving guitar riffs, and Michael Hutchence’s dynamic vocals make it an instant classic. The track’s lyrics, which speak of the excitement and possibility of new experiences, perfectly capture the youthful spirit of the 1980s. The accompanying video, which features the band performing against a colorful, neon-lit backdrop, has become iconic and serves as a visual representation of the band’s energetic and innovative sound. “New Sensation” was a huge commercial success, charting in the top 10 in multiple countries, and it helped to solidify INXS’ status as one of the most exciting and influential bands of their time. The song’s universal appeal has led to its continued popularity, and it remains a favorite among fans of the band and lovers of 80s music alike.
9. Original Sin
“Original Sin” is a hit single by INXS, released in 1984. The song’s driving rhythm, dynamic guitar riffs, and Michael Hutchence’s powerful vocals make it an unforgettable classic. The track’s lyrics speak of temptation and the search for redemption, with a reference to the biblical story of Adam and Eve. The song’s video, which features the band performing in a dark, mysterious environment, perfectly captures the mood and atmosphere of the track. “Original Sin” was a commercial success, charting in the top 20 in multiple countries, and it helped to establish INXS as one of the most exciting and innovative bands of the 1980s. The song’s powerful message and infectious sound continue to resonate with listeners today, and it remains a fan favorite and a true classic of the rock and roll genre.
10. The One Thing
“The One Thing” is a classic hit by INXS, released in 1982. The song’s upbeat tempo, catchy guitar riffs, and Michael Hutchence’s distinctive vocals make it an unforgettable and iconic track. The song’s lyrics speak of the power of love and the importance of pursuing one’s desires, a message that resonated with audiences then and now. The video for the song, which features the band performing in a dimly lit, industrial setting, adds to the track’s overall sense of intensity and energy. “The One Thing” was a commercial success, charting in the top 30 in multiple countries, and it helped to establish INXS as one of the most exciting and innovative bands of the early 1980s. The song’s timeless sound and universal message have helped to ensure its continued popularity, making it a fan favorite and a true classic of the rock and roll genre.