INXS was an Australian rock band formed in Sydney in 1977. They achieved international fame in the 1980s and 1990s with a series of hit albums and singles. The band’s sound blended elements of rock, new wave, funk, and dance, creating a distinctive style that helped define the sound of the era.
Some of INXS’s most popular songs include “Need You Tonight,” “Never Tear Us Apart,” “New Sensation,” and “Devil Inside.” These tracks are characterized by catchy melodies, tight rhythms, and the charismatic vocals of lead singer Michael Hutchence.
INXS enjoyed immense success during their career, winning multiple awards and selling millions of albums worldwide. However, the band faced tragedy with the untimely death of Michael Hutchence in 1997. Despite this loss, INXS continued to perform and record music with various lead singers before ultimately disbanding in 2012.
INXS left a lasting legacy on the music industry, influencing countless artists with their dynamic sound and energetic performances. Their songs remain popular today and continue to be celebrated by fans around the world.
1. Listen Like Thieves
“Listen Like Thieves” is a song by INXS, released as the title track of their fifth studio album in 1985. The song features a driving rock beat and showcases the band’s signature blend of rock and new wave influences. “Listen Like Thieves” is known for its catchy chorus and energetic instrumentation, including a prominent guitar riff and pulsating rhythm section.
Lyrically, the song addresses themes of power, control, and the struggle for dominance. It suggests a sense of urgency and determination, encouraging listeners to assert themselves and seize opportunities.
“Listen Like Thieves” was a commercial success for INXS, helping to further solidify their reputation as one of the leading rock bands of the 1980s. It remains a popular and iconic track in their discography, often remembered for its infectious energy and memorable hooks.
2. Mystify
“Mystify” is a song by the Australian rock band INXS, released in 1987 as the fifth single from their sixth studio album, “Kick.” The song was written by INXS band members Andrew Farriss and Michael Hutchence.
“Mystify” is characterized by its catchy melody, soulful vocals, and atmospheric production. The lyrics evoke a sense of mystery and desire, with the protagonist expressing fascination and longing for a captivating and enigmatic lover. The song’s chorus features the memorable refrain “All we have is this moment / Tomorrow’s unspoken / Yesterday is history.”
The music video for “Mystify” features footage of INXS performing the song intercut with surreal and abstract imagery, including shots of flames, water, and swirling colors. The video received heavy rotation on MTV and helped boost the song’s popularity.
“Mystify” was a commercial success, reaching the top 20 on the charts in several countries, including Australia, the United States, and the United Kingdom. It remains one of INXS’s most beloved and enduring songs, and it is often regarded as a classic of the 1980s rock era.
3. Don’t Change
“Don’t Change” is one of the most iconic songs by INXS, released in 1982 as part of their album “Shabooh Shoobah.” It’s characterized by its infectious melody, catchy hooks, and Michael Hutchence’s charismatic vocals. The song features a blend of new wave and rock elements, with a driving rhythm section and memorable guitar riffs.
Lyrically, “Don’t Change” is a message of self-acceptance and embracing one’s identity. It encourages listeners to stay true to themselves and resist the pressure to conform to societal expectations. The chorus, with its repeated refrain of “Don’t change for you / Don’t change a thing for me,” serves as a powerful anthem of individuality and self-expression.
“Don’t Change” became one of INXS’s most beloved and enduring songs, receiving widespread acclaim from both fans and critics. It remains a staple of their live performances and continues to resonate with audiences around the world for its timeless message and infectious energy.
4. Devil Inside
“Devil Inside” is a hit song by INXS, released in 1987 as part of their album “Kick.” It’s characterized by its funky bassline, catchy guitar riff, and Michael Hutchence’s sultry vocals. The song features a blend of rock, funk, and dance elements, showcasing the band’s versatility and unique sound.
Lyrically, “Devil Inside” explores themes of temptation, desire, and the darker aspects of human nature. The lyrics suggest a sense of danger and intrigue, with references to succumbing to one’s inner demons. The chorus, with its repeated refrain of “Every single one of us, the devil inside,” adds to the song’s ominous and seductive atmosphere.
“Devil Inside” was a commercial success for INXS, reaching the top 10 on charts around the world and becoming one of their signature songs. Its memorable melody and infectious groove have made it a favorite among fans and a staple of the band’s live performances.
5. New Sensation
“New Sensation” is a song by the Australian rock band INXS, released in 1987 as the third single from their sixth studio album, “Kick.” The song was written by INXS band members Andrew Farriss and Michael Hutchence.
“New Sensation” is characterized by its upbeat tempo, catchy guitar riff, and infectious groove. The lyrics convey a sense of excitement and exhilaration, celebrating the thrill of living in the moment and experiencing new sensations. The song’s chorus features the memorable refrain “New sensation, new sensation.”
The music video for “New Sensation” features footage of INXS performing the song in various locations, including a concert stage and a recording studio, intercut with scenes of people dancing and enjoying themselves. The video received heavy rotation on MTV and helped boost the song’s popularity.
“New Sensation” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the charts in several countries, including Australia, the United States, and the United Kingdom. It remains one of INXS’s most iconic and enduring songs, and it is often regarded as a classic of the 1980s rock era.
6. Original Sin
“Original Sin” is a song by the Australian rock band INXS, released in 1984 as the first single from their fifth studio album, “The Swing.” The song was written by INXS band members Andrew Farriss and Michael Hutchence.
“Original Sin” is characterized by its distinctive synth riff, driving rhythm, and atmospheric production. The lyrics explore themes of temptation, desire, and the allure of the forbidden. The title “Original Sin” refers to the idea of inherent human flaws and the struggle to resist temptation.
The song’s chorus features the memorable refrain “Dream on, white boy, dream on / Black girl, white girl, dream on,” emphasizing the universal nature of human desires and the longing for fulfillment.
The music video for “Original Sin” features footage of INXS performing the song in a dark, industrial setting, interspersed with surreal and abstract imagery. The video received heavy rotation on MTV and helped boost the song’s popularity.
“Original Sin” was a commercial success, reaching the top 20 on the charts in several countries, including Australia, the United States, and the United Kingdom. It remains one of INXS’s most iconic and enduring songs, and it is often regarded as a classic of the 1980s rock era.
7. Suicide Blonde
“Suicide Blonde” is a song by the Australian rock band INXS, released in 1990 as the lead single from their seventh studio album, “X.” The song was written by INXS band members Andrew Farriss and Michael Hutchence.
“Suicide Blonde” is characterized by its driving rhythm, catchy guitar riff, and energetic vocals. The lyrics describe a femme fatale figure who exudes confidence and allure, with the title “Suicide Blonde” referring to a woman who dyes her hair blonde as a sign of rebellion and daring.
The song’s chorus features the memorable refrain “Suicide blonde, was the color of her hair / Like a cheap distraction, for a new affair,” emphasizing the seductive and dangerous nature of the protagonist. The song’s catchy melody and infectious energy helped it become a commercial success.
The music video for “Suicide Blonde” features footage of INXS performing the song interspersed with scenes of a mysterious woman portrayed by model and actress Yasmin Le Bon. The video received heavy rotation on MTV and helped propel the song up the charts.
“Suicide Blonde” was a hit for INXS, reaching the top 10 on the charts in several countries, including Australia, the United States, and the United Kingdom. It remains one of the band’s most recognizable and enduring songs, and it is often regarded as a classic of the early 1990s rock era.
8. What You Need
“What You Need” is a song by the Australian rock band INXS, released in 1985 as the lead single from their sixth studio album, “Listen Like Thieves.” The song was written by INXS band members Andrew Farriss and Michael Hutchence.
“What You Need” is characterized by its funky bassline, infectious groove, and soulful vocals. The lyrics convey a message of desire and longing, with the protagonist expressing a need for love and connection. The song’s chorus features the repeated refrain “Youuuu, youuuu, what you need,” emphasizing the importance of fulfilling those needs.
The music video for “What You Need” features footage of INXS performing the song in a dark, atmospheric setting, interspersed with scenes of people dancing and interacting. The video received heavy rotation on MTV and helped boost the song’s popularity.
“What You Need” was a commercial success, reaching the top 5 on the charts in several countries, including Australia, the United States, and the United Kingdom. It remains one of INXS’s most iconic and enduring songs, and it is often regarded as a classic of the 1980s rock era.
9. Never Tear Us Apart
“Never Tear Us Apart” is one of INXS’s most iconic songs, released in 1988 as part of their album “Kick.” It’s a powerful ballad characterized by its haunting saxophone riff, emotional lyrics, and Michael Hutchence’s soulful vocals. The song features a lush, atmospheric arrangement that builds to a dramatic climax, creating a sense of intensity and passion.
Lyrically, “Never Tear Us Apart” is a love song that expresses deep emotional connection and loyalty. The lyrics convey a sense of devotion and commitment, with the narrator proclaiming their love and determination to overcome any obstacles that may come their way. The chorus, with its poignant refrain of “We could live for a thousand years, but if I hurt you, I’d make wine from your tears,” captures the depth of the narrator’s feelings and the strength of their bond.
“Never Tear Us Apart” became one of INXS’s most successful songs, reaching the top 10 on charts around the world and receiving widespread critical acclaim. Its timeless appeal and evocative melody have made it a favorite among fans and a classic in the realm of rock ballads.
10. Need You Tonight
“Need You Tonight” is one of INXS’s most iconic songs, released in 1987 as part of their album “Kick.” It’s characterized by its distinctive guitar riff, funky bassline, and Michael Hutchence’s seductive vocals. The song features a blend of rock, funk, and dance elements, creating a sound that is both energetic and irresistible.
Lyrically, “Need You Tonight” is a song about desire and longing. The lyrics convey a sense of urgency and passion, with the narrator expressing a need for companionship and connection. The chorus, with its repeated refrain of “I need you tonight,” captures the intensity of the narrator’s emotions and the urgency of their desire.
“Need You Tonight” was a commercial success for INXS, topping the charts in multiple countries and becoming one of their signature songs. Its infectious groove and catchy melody have made it a favorite among fans and a staple of the band’s live performances.