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 and keyboardist Andrew Farriss, bassist Garry Gary Beers, drummer Jon Farriss, and guitarist Tim Farriss.
INXS rose to international fame in the 1980s and 1990s with a string of hit albums and singles. Their music encompassed a variety of genres including rock, new wave, and funk, and they were known for their energetic live performances and stylish image.
Some of INXS’s most famous songs include “Need You Tonight,” “New Sensation,” “Devil Inside,” and “Never Tear Us Apart.” These songs helped propel the band to commercial success and earned them critical acclaim for their innovative sound and catchy hooks.
Tragically, lead vocalist Michael Hutchence died in 1997, but INXS continued to perform with various guest vocalists. The band officially disbanded in 2012 after 35 years together.
INXS left a lasting impact on the music industry and remains one of Australia’s most successful and iconic bands. Their music continues to be celebrated and enjoyed by fans around the world.
1. Listen Like Thieves
“Listen Like Thieves” is a song by the Australian rock band INXS, released in 1985 as the title track and lead single from their fifth studio album, *Listen Like Thieves*. The song features a driving rock rhythm, catchy guitar riffs, and Michael Hutchence’s charismatic vocals.
In “Listen Like Thieves,” INXS sings about the importance of being savvy and streetwise in a world full of challenges and obstacles. The lyrics convey a message of resilience and determination, urging listeners to stand their ground and fight for what they believe in.
The song was a commercial success, reaching the top 30 on the charts in multiple countries and helping to solidify INXS’s reputation as one of the premier rock bands of the 1980s. Its anthemic chorus and infectious energy made it a favorite among fans and a staple of the band’s live performances.
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 features a moody atmosphere, pulsating rhythm, and Michael Hutchence’s emotive vocals.
In “Mystify,” INXS sings about the intoxicating allure of a mysterious and enigmatic lover. The lyrics evoke a sense of fascination and longing, as the narrator is captivated by the charisma and allure of their romantic interest.
The song was a commercial success, reaching the top 20 on the charts in multiple countries and earning critical acclaim for its atmospheric production and Hutchence’s compelling performance. Its haunting melody and evocative lyrics have made it one of INXS’s most enduring and beloved songs, cherished by fans for its timeless appeal and emotional resonance.
3. Don’t Change
“Don’t Change” is a song by the Australian rock band INXS, released in 1982 on their album *Shabooh Shoobah*. The song was written by band members Andrew Farriss and Garry Gary Beers.
“Don’t Change” is a new wave and rock song with a catchy guitar riff and a driving beat. The lyrics convey a message of self-acceptance and staying true to oneself, with the chorus proclaiming, “Don’t change for you / Don’t change a thing for me.” The song’s upbeat tempo and anthemic chorus made it a popular choice for radio play and live performances.
“Don’t Change” was a moderate success upon its release but has since become one of INXS’s most enduring songs. It has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials, and remains a fan favorite at INXS concerts. The song’s positive message and infectious energy have helped it endure as a classic of the new wave era.
4. Devil Inside
“Devil Inside” is a song by INXS, released in 1988 as the lead single from their album *Kick*. The song was written by INXS members Andrew Farriss and Michael Hutchence.
“Devil Inside” is a rock song with a funky groove and a dark, edgy sound. The lyrics describe the allure of temptation and the struggle between good and evil, with the chorus warning, “Devil inside, devil inside / Every single one of us the devil inside.”
The song’s music video features the band performing in a dimly lit room, interspersed with scenes of mysterious and provocative imagery. The video’s moody atmosphere and provocative visuals complement the song’s dark themes and edgy sound.
“Devil Inside” was a commercial success, reaching the top ten on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. The song’s infectious rhythm and catchy chorus made it a standout track on *Kick* and a fan favorite at INXS concerts.
5. New Sensation
“New Sensation” is a song by the Australian rock band INXS, released in 1988 as the third single from their sixth studio album, *Kick*. The song features a catchy rhythm, infectious guitar riffs, and Michael Hutchence’s charismatic vocals.
In “New Sensation,” INXS sings about the thrill and excitement of living life to the fullest and embracing new experiences. The lyrics convey a sense of freedom and exhilaration, as the band celebrates the electrifying energy of youth and adventure.
The song was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the charts in multiple countries and becoming one of INXS’s signature songs. Its upbeat tempo, catchy chorus, and infectious energy made it a favorite among fans and a staple of the band’s live performances. “New Sensation” remains a classic in the INXS discography, celebrated for its timeless appeal and infectious groove.
6. Original Sin
“Original Sin” is a song by INXS, released in 1984 as the lead single from their album *The Swing*. The song was written by INXS members Andrew Farriss and Michael Hutchence.
“Original Sin” is a rock song with a strong rhythm and a danceable beat. The lyrics explore themes of temptation, desire, and the consequences of giving in to one’s baser instincts. The chorus repeats the line “Dream on white boy, dream on black girl” as a metaphor for the universal nature of temptation and sin.
The song’s music video features the band performing in a dark, moody setting, with images of fire, water, and other elemental symbols interspersed throughout. The video’s striking visuals and mysterious atmosphere complement the song’s dark, introspective lyrics.
“Original Sin” was a commercial success, reaching the top 40 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. The song’s provocative lyrics and infectious rhythm made it a standout track on *The Swing* and a fan favorite at INXS concerts.
7. Suicide Blonde
“Suicide Blonde” is a song by INXS, released in 1990 as the lead single from their album *X*. The song was written by INXS members Andrew Farriss and Michael Hutchence.
“Suicide Blonde” is a rock song with a funky groove and a catchy chorus. The lyrics describe a woman with platinum blonde hair who is wild and unpredictable, with the chorus proclaiming, “Suicide blonde, was the color of her hair / Like a cheap distraction for a new affair.”
The song’s music video features the band performing in a variety of colorful and surreal settings, with images of the “suicide blonde” woman interspersed throughout. The video’s stylish visuals and edgy vibe complement the song’s lyrics and energetic sound.
“Suicide Blonde” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the charts in several countries. The song’s infectious rhythm and memorable chorus made it a standout track on *X* and a fan favorite at INXS concerts.
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 features a funky bassline, catchy guitar riffs, and Michael Hutchence’s charismatic vocals.
In “What You Need,” INXS sings about the desire for emotional and physical connection, as well as the importance of being true to oneself. The lyrics convey a message of self-assurance and confidence, as the narrator expresses their willingness to provide whatever is necessary to satisfy their partner’s needs.
The song was a commercial success, reaching the top 5 on the charts in several countries and becoming one of INXS’s most iconic songs. Its infectious rhythm, catchy chorus, and Hutchence’s dynamic performance made it a favorite among fans and a staple of the band’s live shows. “What You Need” remains a classic in the INXS discography, celebrated for its irresistible groove and timeless appeal.
9. Never Tear Us Apart
“Never Tear Us Apart” is a song by INXS, released in 1988 as the fourth single from their album *Kick*. The song was written by INXS members Andrew Farriss and Michael Hutchence.
“Never Tear Us Apart” is a ballad with a haunting melody and emotional lyrics. The song’s lyrics describe a deep and enduring love, with the singer proclaiming that nothing can come between them and their loved one. The chorus repeats the line “Don’t ask me, what you know is true / Don’t have to tell you, I love your precious heart” as a declaration of love and commitment.
The song’s music video features the band performing in a dark, atmospheric setting, with images of fire, water, and other elemental symbols interspersed throughout. The video’s dramatic visuals and moody atmosphere complement the song’s heartfelt lyrics and soulful melody.
“Never Tear Us Apart” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the charts in several countries. The song’s timeless appeal and universal themes of love and devotion have made it one of INXS’s most enduring songs and a fan favorite at their concerts.
10. Need You Tonight
“Need You Tonight” is a song by the Australian rock band INXS, released in 1987 as the lead single from their sixth studio album, *Kick*. The song features a distinctive guitar riff, a funky bassline, and Michael Hutchence’s seductive vocals.
In “Need You Tonight,” INXS sings about desire and longing, as the narrator expresses a strong desire for physical intimacy with their romantic interest. The lyrics convey a sense of urgency and passion, with the narrator declaring their need for their partner’s presence.
The song was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries, including the United States, Canada, and Australia. Its infectious groove, catchy melody, and provocative lyrics made it one of INXS’s most popular and enduring songs. “Need You Tonight” remains a classic in the band’s discography, celebrated for its iconic riff and sultry vibe.