Get ready to turn up the volume and relive the electric energy of one of Australia’s most iconic rock bands—INXS! With their irresistible fusion of new wave, pop, and rock, INXS stormed the music scene in the 1980s and 1990s, crafting hits that still echo through speakers around the world. Known for their magnetic performances and the sultry charisma of frontman Michael Hutchence, INXS delivered a soundtrack for generations, blending timeless lyrics with infectious grooves that made you want to dance, sing, and lose yourself in the music.
From anthems that defined a decade to emotional ballads that tug at your heartstrings, INXS’s catalog is brimming with unforgettable gems. But which songs truly stand the test of time? In this article, we’ll dive into the top 10 most popular INXS tracks ever recorded—a celebration of the band’s legacy and their unparalleled ability to craft hits that resonate across decades. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to their music, this list will take you on a thrilling journey through INXS’s greatest musical moments. So, grab your headphones, crank up the volume, and let’s get ready to revisit the songs that made INXS legends of rock!
1. “Need You Tonight” (1987)
“Need You Tonight” is one of those rare songs that grabs you from the first beat and refuses to let go. Released as part of INXS’s breakout album Kick, this track became the band’s first—and only—song to top the US Billboard Hot 100. What makes it so unforgettable is its seductive simplicity. A slinky guitar riff loops hypnotically over a sparse, electronic drum beat, creating a sound that’s both raw and futuristic. Michael Hutchence’s sultry vocal delivery adds a magnetic, sensual quality that pulses with tension and desire. Lyrically, it’s direct and provocative, playing with themes of obsession and lust. The track’s minimalist production made it feel incredibly modern for its time and still gives it a timeless quality today. Its music video, with its edgy, rapid-fire editing, also played a big part in its popularity during the MTV era. “Need You Tonight” helped redefine what rock music could sound like in the late ’80s—cool, stripped-back, and full of swagger. Over the years, it’s become a defining moment in INXS’s legacy, showcasing their ability to blend rock, pop, and funk into something entirely their own.
2. “Never Tear Us Apart” (1987)
“Never Tear Us Apart” is one of INXS’s most emotional and enduring ballads. Released in 1988 as a single from their critically acclaimed album Kick, the song showcases a more vulnerable side of the band. It opens with a slow, dramatic synth line before blooming into a powerful orchestration, complete with sweeping strings and a hauntingly beautiful saxophone solo. Michael Hutchence delivers the lyrics with heartfelt intensity, singing about a love so deep and unbreakable that not even time or distance can diminish it. There’s a cinematic quality to the song—it feels like a slow dance in a dimly lit room, soaked in longing and devotion. Often played at weddings, memorials, and tributes, “Never Tear Us Apart” resonates on a personal level with listeners around the world. Its message of eternal connection and emotional honesty has made it a timeless anthem of love. The track not only highlights Hutchence’s vocal charisma but also INXS’s ability to blend rock, pop, and soul into a uniquely moving experience.
3. “New Sensation” (1987)
“New Sensation” is INXS at their most electrifying. Released in 1988 as the third single from Kick, this high-energy track is built for the dance floor. With its crisp guitar riff, pounding rhythm, and explosive chorus, the song captures the wild, heady rush of living in the moment. It’s all about seizing the day and chasing that next big thrill, something reflected in both the lyrics and the adrenaline-pumping arrangement. Michael Hutchence brings his usual confident swagger, commanding listeners to let loose and feel alive. The horns add an extra splash of brightness, making the song impossible to sit still to. “New Sensation” quickly became a radio favorite and a staple at parties, concerts, and club nights around the world. It embodies that late ’80s optimism and excess, when music felt like a celebration. INXS nailed the formula for combining rock hooks with pop accessibility, and this track is a shining example of that. Decades later, “New Sensation” still crackles with energy and remains a highlight of their live performances.
4. “Devil Inside” (1987)
Dark, brooding, and irresistibly edgy, “Devil Inside” dives into the dual nature of humanity—the battle between good and evil that exists within us all. Released in 1988 from the album Kick, it was a massive hit for INXS, climbing all the way to No. 2 on the US Billboard Hot 100. The song rides on a pulsating bassline and sharp, echoing guitar licks, creating a foreboding atmosphere that’s both seductive and sinister. Michael Hutchence’s delivery is calm and commanding, adding a layer of mystery to lyrics that hint at temptation, desire, and inner conflict. The song’s repeated line—“Every single one of us, the devil inside”—acts like a haunting mantra that sticks with you long after the music stops. With its blend of rock, funk, and electronic textures, “Devil Inside” pushed the band into darker territory and expanded their sound. It was a bold move, and it paid off. The song became a staple of their live shows and an emblem of their artistic edge. Even today, it sounds fresh, dangerous, and full of bite.
5. “What You Need” (1985)
“What You Need” was a game-changer for INXS. Released in 1985 as the lead single from Listen Like Thieves, it was the band’s first song to break into the U.S. Top 5, setting the stage for their later global success. The track kicks off with a funky, punchy rhythm and never lets up. It’s all tight grooves, crisp guitar stabs, and a swagger-filled vocal from Hutchence, who practically oozes charisma. The lyrics are straightforward and upbeat—“Don’t you get sad and lonely, you need a change”—offering a kind of musical pep talk. “What You Need” captures the band’s transition from a strong Australian act to an international powerhouse. Its hybrid of rock, funk, and pop was both radio-friendly and fresh, paving the way for their polished, hook-heavy sound on later albums like Kick. The song’s infectious energy made it an instant crowd-pleaser and a live performance favorite. More than just a hit, “What You Need” represents INXS finding their voice and hitting their stride in a way that would define their career.
6. “Original Sin” (1984)
“Original Sin” was a bold, forward-thinking single that helped solidify INXS’s reputation as more than just another rock band. Released in 1984 as part of The Swing and produced by legendary Nile Rodgers, the song took on social issues like race and prejudice, cloaked in the grooves of funk-infused pop. Its opening chant and rhythmic foundation feel celebratory, but there’s a deeper layer to the lyrics—challenging ideas about love, society, and unity. Rodgers’ production gave it a sleek, danceable sound, while Hutchence’s vocals maintained their usual coolness and authority. One of the most memorable features of the song is the guest vocal from Daryl Hall, which added texture and cross-genre appeal. “Original Sin” was ahead of its time, pushing boundaries both musically and lyrically. It became a No. 1 hit in Australia and earned international attention, helping to propel INXS onto the global stage. Its message remains relevant decades later, making it not just a great track to groove to, but also one worth revisiting for its bold stance and boundary-pushing sound.
7. “Suicide Blonde” (1990)
“Suicide Blonde” kicked off a new decade for INXS with a gritty, glam-infused bang. Released in 1990 as the lead single from their album X, the song features a distinctive bluesy harmonica riff—an unusual touch that gives it a raw, street-smart edge. The phrase “suicide blonde” came from a comment made by Kylie Minogue, who was dating Hutchence at the time, referring to someone who “dyed by her own hand.” That ironic wordplay fed into the track’s rebellious energy. With a driving beat, layered guitar textures, and Hutchence’s swaggering vocals, “Suicide Blonde” is both playful and provocative. The chorus hits hard and fast, making it impossible not to move along. It became a Top 10 hit in multiple countries and reaffirmed INXS’s place in the evolving rock landscape of the ’90s. The track feels like a bridge between the glitz of the ’80s and the grit of the ’90s, capturing that transitional energy with style. It’s punchy, memorable, and totally unapologetic—a true standout in the band’s later catalog.
8. “Disappear” (1990)
“Disappear” is a shimmering gem from the X album that perfectly blends INXS’s knack for melody with a more introspective tone. Released in 1991, it became a Top 10 hit in the United States and stands out for its airy, optimistic sound. Co-written by Michael Hutchence and drummer Jon Farriss, the song talks about escaping negativity and finding peace—whether through love, hope, or personal strength. Its catchy chorus and upbeat instrumentation make it feel light and breezy, even as the lyrics touch on deeper emotional themes. The blend of keyboards, soft percussion, and Hutchence’s emotive vocals gives “Disappear” a dream-like quality that separates it from the band’s more hard-hitting rock tracks. It’s the kind of song that lifts your spirits without being overly sentimental. While it might not be as immediately iconic as some of INXS’s other singles, “Disappear” has a lasting charm that resonates with longtime fans. It’s an underrated classic that shows the band could still evolve and connect emotionally, even in the changing musical climate of the early ’90s.
9. “By My Side” (1990)
“By My Side” is a tender, emotionally rich ballad that reveals the softer, more introspective side of INXS. Released in 1990 as part of the X album, the song is a heartfelt declaration of longing and devotion. Its simple piano introduction, combined with a restrained arrangement, allows Hutchence’s voice to shine with vulnerability and sincerity. Lyrically, it’s about distance—physical or emotional—and the aching desire to be reunited with someone you care deeply for. Unlike the high-energy hits the band is often known for, “By My Side” moves slowly and deliberately, wrapping listeners in a gentle, melancholic embrace. Though it wasn’t a massive chart hit, the song has found a special place in the hearts of many fans for its emotional honesty. It’s been used in romantic scenes, memorials, and tribute videos, further cementing its sentimental power. “By My Side” proves that INXS could do more than just rock the stage—they could also write songs that reached into the soul and stayed with you long after the last note.
10. “Don’t Change” (1982)
“Don’t Change” is where it all began for INXS in terms of worldwide recognition. Released in 1982 from their third studio album Shabooh Shoobah, the track is a rousing anthem of individuality and staying true to yourself. It opens with a charging guitar riff and a pulsing beat that build into one of the band’s most anthemic choruses. Lyrically, it’s a declaration of self-confidence and resistance against pressure to conform—a timeless message that continues to resonate with listeners of all ages. Michael Hutchence delivers the lines with both urgency and grace, making the plea to “don’t change for you, don’t change a thing for me” feel universal. Over the years, “Don’t Change” has become a fan-favorite and a staple of the band’s live shows. It’s often used in movies, sports events, and other moments of celebration and defiance. This song marked a turning point for INXS, showcasing their unique blend of new wave, rock, and pop, and laying the groundwork for the massive success that would follow.
Edward Tomlin 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.
