In the pantheon of rock music, few bands have managed to blend electrifying energy with poignant lyrics quite like INXS. Hailing from Australia, this iconic group burst onto the music scene in the early 1980s and quickly captivated audiences worldwide with their unique sound—a fusion of rock, new wave, and funk. With charismatic frontman Michael Hutchence at the helm, INXS created anthems that defined a generation, resonating with themes of love, longing, and the complexities of life.
As we delve into the top 10 most popular INXS songs of all time, prepare for a nostalgic journey through infectious melodies and unforgettable hooks. From the sultry vibes of “Need You Tonight” to the uplifting tones of “New Sensation,” each track is a testament to the band’s enduring legacy. Their music not only dominated the charts but also became the soundtrack to countless lives, forging connections across cultures and generations.
Join us as we explore the songs that made INXS a household name, celebrating their impact on the music world and the hearts of fans around the globe. Get ready to relive the magic of INXS!
1. Need You Tonight (1987)
“Need You Tonight” is the ultimate INXS anthem—seductive, sleek, and impossible to ignore. Released in 1987 as the lead single from their landmark album Kick, the track fuses rock, funk, and a hint of new wave into a pulsating groove that defined a generation. From the moment that iconic guitar riff kicks in, there’s an immediate sense of urgency. Then Michael Hutchence enters, all smoldering charisma, whispering and singing with a magnetism that oozes desire.
Lyrically, the song is raw and direct: it’s about want, plain and simple. It captures the feeling of needing someone so badly that it borders on obsession. The minimalist beat, looped guitar, and tight production from Chris Thomas allow Hutchence’s voice to shine, commanding every second of the track. It’s no surprise that the song became a worldwide hit, even reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the U.S.
Decades later, “Need You Tonight” remains a dance floor favorite and a cultural touchstone. It’s a song that hasn’t aged—it still feels fresh, sexy, and cool, just like INXS at their peak.
2. New Sensation (1987)
“New Sensation” is pure adrenaline—an electrifying blend of danceable rock and joyful rebellion. Released in 1987 on the Kick album, it bursts with high energy, contagious hooks, and a message of living for the moment. Right from the start, with its crisp guitar lines and irresistible rhythm, the song feels like a celebration. It’s an invitation to feel something new, to chase excitement, to break free from monotony.
Michael Hutchence’s vocals are exuberant, confident, and playful. He commands the track like a charismatic ringleader urging everyone to let go. The lyrics echo that spirit of youth and hedonism: “Live, baby, live / Now that the day is over,” he sings, encouraging us to take a chance and chase what makes us feel alive.
Sonically, the song is tightly constructed—every drumbeat, guitar lick, and saxophone accent hits with precision. It’s an INXS classic not just because it’s catchy, but because it captures the emotional high of freedom. Whether it’s blaring from speakers at a party or played during a drive with the windows down, “New Sensation” delivers the same feeling: joy, movement, and that undeniable rush of something new.
3. Never Tear Us Apart (1988)
“Never Tear Us Apart” is one of INXS’s most poignant and enduring love songs. Released in 1988 as part of Kick, it shows a softer, more emotional side of the band. Built on a slow, dramatic build and punctuated by a soaring saxophone solo, the track balances elegance with passion.
The lyrics speak of an unbreakable bond—a love so strong that even time or fate can’t sever it. Hutchence’s voice is tender yet powerful, conveying a vulnerability that draws listeners in. “I was standing / You were there,” he sings, painting vivid snapshots of intimacy and memory. There’s a quiet intensity in the arrangement, with silences that feel just as heavy as the instrumentation.
The song’s timeless quality has made it a favorite at weddings, anniversaries, and memorials. It speaks to the core of what love really is: connection, endurance, and mutual devotion. “Never Tear Us Apart” doesn’t just tug at the heartstrings—it wraps around them.
Over the years, it has become one of the band’s most recognizable tracks, and arguably Hutchence’s most emotional vocal performance. It’s a love song that transcends genre and generation.
4. Devil Inside (1988)
“Devil Inside” is dark, seductive, and provocative—the kind of song that lingers long after it’s over. Released in 1988, it became one of INXS’s most controversial yet successful singles, challenging listeners with its raw lyrics and pulsing rhythm.
Built on a hypnotic beat and swirling guitar lines, the song dives into the duality of human nature. Hutchence’s delivery is both smooth and menacing as he sings, “Every single one of us has the devil inside.” It’s a bold declaration—that beneath our polished surfaces, there’s chaos, desire, and temptation.
The production is moody and intense, perfect for the theme of inner conflict. With its thumping bass and layered textures, the song builds an atmosphere of seduction and unease. It became a staple of INXS’s live shows, where Hutchence’s theatrical stage presence brought the song’s dark sensuality to life.
“Devil Inside” sparked conversations and a bit of controversy at the time, but its boldness paid off. It stands today as a powerful statement about identity, repression, and embracing the parts of ourselves we’re taught to hide.
5. What You Need (1985)
“What You Need” is the song that marked INXS’s breakthrough into the international spotlight. Released in 1985 as the lead single from Listen Like Thieves, it introduced a wider audience to their infectious blend of rock, funk, and pop. The track is built around a funky guitar riff and an irresistible groove that makes it impossible not to move.
Lyrically, it’s playful and enticing—offering someone not just affection, but something deeper and more fulfilling. Hutchence’s voice is sly and charming, delivering lines like a knowing confidante. The song’s chorus—“All you got is this moment / Twenty-first century’s yesterday”—feels like a wake-up call to seize life now, not later.
The mix of slick production, confident vocals, and radio-friendly hooks helped the song become their first Top 10 hit in the U.S. It paved the way for everything that came after. But even without the accolades, “What You Need” is a blast—a perfect slice of dance-rock that still feels alive.
It’s the moment INXS turned up the volume and showed the world what they were capable of—and they never looked back.
6. Original Sin (1984)
“Original Sin” was a bold move for INXS, both musically and thematically. Released in 1984 and produced by Nile Rodgers, the track blends funk, dance, and rock into a sleek, politically charged anthem. It tackled subjects like race, identity, and forbidden love—unusual for a pop song at the time.
The production is razor-sharp. The drums hit hard, the keyboards pulse, and the guitars swirl around a groove that’s both hypnotic and commanding. Hutchence sings with a kind of urgency that’s both seductive and defiant. “Dream on white boy / Dream on black girl,” he croons, flipping expectations and challenging social norms.
The song was ahead of its time—not just for its genre-blending sound, but for its willingness to say something meaningful. Despite its success in Australia and abroad, some radio stations hesitated to play it due to its controversial themes. But that only added to its power.
“Original Sin” remains one of the band’s most daring and innovative tracks. It’s a reminder that INXS wasn’t afraid to push boundaries—not just musically, but culturally. And that bravery helped shape their legacy.
7. Suicide Blonde (1990)
“Suicide Blonde” marked the beginning of a new decade and a fresh chapter for INXS. Released in 1990 as the lead single from X, the track fused gritty rock with pulsating dance beats, delivering a modern and edgy sound that stood apart from their ’80s catalog.
Inspired by a phrase uttered by Kylie Minogue—Hutchence’s partner at the time—the song captures the mysterious allure and danger of a woman who’s both magnetic and untouchable. “Suicide blonde, dyed by her own hand,” Hutchence sings, combining intrigue, rebellion, and desire in just a few words.
Musically, it’s relentless. The track opens with a distorted harmonica riff before launching into a steady, almost industrial groove. The rhythm is tight, the guitars shimmer, and the vocals ooze attitude. It was a huge hit worldwide, reaffirming the band’s relevance as the musical landscape began to shift.
“Suicide Blonde” is more than a song—it’s a mood. It feels like a late-night drive through neon-lit streets or a brush with someone unforgettable. INXS proved they could evolve without losing their spark.
8. Mystify (1987)
“Mystify” is one of those songs that captures the intangible magic of love and attraction—how someone can leave you spellbound with just a glance, a gesture, a presence. Released in 1987 from their iconic Kick album, this track showcases INXS’s softer, more romantic side without sacrificing any of their signature edge.
The melody flows smoothly, almost like a waltz, with a gentle groove that gives the song an understated elegance. Michael Hutchence’s vocals are tender and mesmerizing, perfectly echoing the lyrics about being entranced by someone’s mystery. “Mystify me,” he sings repeatedly, turning those simple words into a powerful confession of awe and surrender.
There’s an emotional richness to the song—subtle but palpable. The guitar work is silky, the rhythm section keeps things tight, and the entire production has a dreamy, cinematic quality. It feels like the soundtrack to a moment you can’t quite explain, but never want to forget.
“Mystify” may not have had the bombast of INXS’s biggest hits, but its beauty lies in its restraint. It’s a love song with depth, charm, and vulnerability, and it continues to resonate with anyone who’s ever been captivated by someone they just can’t figure out.
9. Pretty Vegas (2005)
“Pretty Vegas” was more than just a comeback single—it was a rebirth for INXS. Released in 2005 as part of their Switch album, the song introduced new lead singer J.D. Fortune, who had won his place in the band through the TV show Rock Star: INXS. While stepping into Michael Hutchence’s shoes was no small task, this track proved that INXS still had plenty of spark left.
“Pretty Vegas” is punchy, modern, and full of swagger. Its pounding rhythm, distorted guitar riffs, and energetic chorus breathe new life into the band’s sound. Lyrically, the song critiques the glitzy, hollow promises of fame and fortune—symbolized by the neon dreamland of Las Vegas. “You’re the line in the song that’s been going all wrong,” Fortune sings, adding just the right amount of grit and attitude.
The track manages to honor INXS’s legacy while carving out a fresh identity for the new era. It’s slick and stylish, but not superficial. There’s substance beneath the flash, a self-awareness that makes it more than just a rock song—it’s a statement.
“Pretty Vegas” reminded fans—and the music world—that INXS still had stories to tell, and fire left to burn.
10. Disappear (1990)
“Disappear” is one of those tracks that blends emotion and rhythm so seamlessly, you almost don’t notice how bittersweet it is at first. Released in 1990 as part of the X album, it became one of INXS’s last major hits and a testament to their enduring ability to craft unforgettable pop-rock songs with depth.
From the opening chords, “Disappear” feels like a late-night reverie—moody, melodic, and pulsing with yearning. Hutchence’s vocals are both tender and urgent as he sings about longing, distance, and emotional escape. “Say I’m crazy, that I’m blind,” he croons, touching on vulnerability with disarming honesty.
The production is sleek and atmospheric, blending lush synth textures with a steady rhythm section that drives the song forward without overwhelming it. The chorus soars, but not in a showy way—it lifts like a quiet cry for connection.
While it didn’t shake the charts quite like their earlier hits, “Disappear” became a fan favorite and a powerful closer for their live sets. It captures a different shade of the INXS sound—still passionate, still rhythmic, but more reflective. It’s a song that whispers rather than shouts, and in doing so, leaves a lasting echo.
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.
