When it comes to iconic rock bands of the 1980s and ’90s, few can match the electrifying sound and magnetic presence of INXS. Hailing from Australia, this legendary group not only defined a generation with their fusion of rock, new wave, and funk but also captured the hearts of millions around the globe. With hits that range from danceable anthems to heartfelt ballads, INXS left an indelible mark on the music landscape.
Their dynamic frontman, Michael Hutchence, was a charismatic force whose sultry voice and captivating stage presence propelled the band to superstardom. From their breakthrough album “Shabooh Shoobah” to the multi-platinum success of “Kick,” INXS produced a series of unforgettable tracks that still resonate today.
Join us as we explore the top 10 most popular INXS songs of all time, celebrating the artistry and innovation that made them a household name. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just discovering their music, this countdown promises to reignite your passion for a band that continues to inspire and entertain. Get ready to relive the magic and revisit the unforgettable melodies that defined a generation!
1. Need You Tonight
Released in 1987, “Need You Tonight” is one of INXS’s most iconic tracks, a steamy and hypnotic song that oozes desire and tension. The track’s minimalist groove, built around a tight drum machine and funky guitar riff, creates a sense of urgency that perfectly matches the seductive lyrics. Michael Hutchence’s vocals are magnetic, delivering every line with a sensual, breathy intensity that pulls listeners in. The song’s structure is sleek and modern, fusing rock, funk, and new wave in a way that felt revolutionary at the time and still sounds fresh today. As the lead single from their Kick album, it quickly became a global hit, topping the Billboard Hot 100 and solidifying INXS as international stars. The accompanying music video, with its artistic black-and-white visuals and stylized editing, added to the song’s mystique and became a staple on MTV. “Need You Tonight” captures the raw emotions of longing and infatuation, making it a timeless anthem of desire. Its influence can be felt in countless modern pop and rock songs, a testament to its staying power and the band’s creative edge.
2. New Sensation
“New Sensation,” released in 1987, is a track bursting with vibrant energy and feel-good vibes. From its opening guitar riff, the song announces itself as a celebration of life and the thrill of new experiences. Michael Hutchence brings his signature swagger and charisma to the vocals, urging listeners to embrace the moment and dive headfirst into everything life has to offer. The upbeat rhythm, danceable groove, and catchy melody make it one of INXS’s most infectious songs. With lyrics like “Live baby live, now that the day is over,” it delivers a message of living fully and seizing every opportunity. Musically, the song blends rock with elements of funk and pop, anchored by Andrew Farriss’s crisp guitar work and tight production. “New Sensation” became a major hit worldwide, adding to the massive success of their Kick album. It’s the kind of song that still lights up a room, a go-to for road trips, parties, and moments when you just want to feel alive. Its unshakable optimism and dynamic arrangement continue to make it a fan favorite and a shining example of INXS’s ability to craft unforgettable anthems.
3. Never Tear Us Apart
“Never Tear Us Apart,” released in 1988, is one of INXS’s most emotionally charged and enduring ballads. With its dramatic pauses, sweeping string arrangements, and powerful lyrics, the song captures the deep intensity of love and connection. Michael Hutchence’s vocal performance is breathtaking—tender, vulnerable, and passionate. Every line carries emotional weight, especially the iconic declaration, “We could live for a thousand years, but if I hurt you, I’d make wine from your tears.” The arrangement starts simply with a haunting keyboard, slowly building to a crescendo of strings and saxophone, giving the track a cinematic quality. The themes of unity and commitment resonate universally, which is why the song remains a staple at weddings and emotional moments. It stands as a timeless declaration of unwavering devotion, cementing its status as one of the band’s finest works. Over the years, “Never Tear Us Apart” has been covered by multiple artists and featured in films and television, but it’s Hutchence’s soulful delivery and the band’s orchestral touch that continue to move audiences, making this song a true classic in every sense.
4. Devil Inside
“Devil Inside” taps into the darker corners of human nature, wrapped in an irresistible groove that made it a standout track upon its release in 1987. The song explores the duality of human behavior—how everyone, no matter how composed on the outside, wrestles with temptation and inner conflict. The lyrics are provocative yet relatable, suggesting that beneath every polished surface lies a complex, sometimes darker reality. Hutchence’s vocals are magnetic and sultry, adding to the song’s mysterious allure. The instrumental backing is bold, driven by a sharp guitar riff and pulsating rhythm that gives the track an almost hypnotic quality. As part of the Kick album, “Devil Inside” further established INXS’s edgy yet accessible style, managing to challenge listeners while keeping them on the dance floor. Its controversial themes sparked discussions but also drew praise for their honesty. The music video, with its shadowy imagery and stylized cinematography, added an extra layer of depth. Decades later, the song still resonates, reminding us that inner battles are part of being human—and it does so with a beat that’s impossible to ignore.
5. New Sensation
Also released in 1988, “New Sensation” is a celebration of living life with open arms and an eager heart. From the first guitar strum, the song bursts with vibrant optimism, inviting listeners to break free from routine and embrace spontaneity. Michael Hutchence’s voice exudes charm and confidence, making every word feel like a personal invitation to join the party. The lyrics carry an encouraging message: no matter what you’ve faced, there’s always something new and exhilarating just around the corner. The upbeat tempo and melodic guitar work add to the sense of fun and forward momentum. Although the track was released nearly four decades ago, its message remains as relevant as ever—especially in a world that often feels weighed down by stress and routine. “New Sensation” offers a kind of musical reset button, inspiring joy and boldness. Whether blasting through car speakers on a sunny afternoon or lighting up a dance floor, it remains one of INXS’s most enduring tracks. Its energy is contagious, and its spirit—playful, adventurous, and deeply human—continues to inspire listeners across generations.
6. What You Need
“What You Need,” released in 1985, is a bold and electrifying song that helped catapult INXS into international fame. With its snappy guitar riffs, tight rhythm, and Michael Hutchence’s magnetic vocal delivery, the track embodies everything that made the band stand out during the mid-’80s. There’s a sleek funkiness running through the beat, layered with rock swagger and an infectious groove that makes it impossible to sit still. Lyrically, it’s a punchy declaration—reminding someone that they don’t need to look any further because everything they need is already right in front of them. Hutchence delivers this message with confidence and a playful edge, turning the song into both a danceable anthem and a flirtatious statement. The track’s tight production and radio-friendly structure made it a hit in multiple countries, helping to establish INXS as a band that could balance style, sex appeal, and sonic innovation. Even today, “What You Need” still sounds fresh and alive—proof of INXS’s knack for fusing rhythm and attitude in a way that feels effortlessly cool. It remains one of their most iconic tracks, endlessly replayable and a staple of their high-energy legacy.
7. Original Sin
“Original Sin” stands out as one of INXS’s most daring and forward-thinking songs. Released in 1984 and produced by Nile Rodgers, the track blends funk, rock, and pop into a powerful sonic statement that was ahead of its time. Lyrically, it dives into the themes of race, love, and societal expectations—topics rarely addressed so directly in mainstream rock music of the era. With lines like “Dream on white boy, dream on black girl,” the song confronts issues of interracial relationships and the social barriers that often surround them. Rodgers’ funk-infused production—complete with tight guitar licks and groovy basslines—adds a danceable edge that softens the weight of the subject matter without diluting its meaning. Michael Hutchence brings both charisma and conviction to the vocal performance, balancing intensity with elegance. “Original Sin” wasn’t just a song—it was a statement. It marked a shift in INXS’s musical direction, proving they were willing to explore deeper and more provocative material. The song still resonates today for both its sonic brilliance and its bold message, a testament to the band’s artistic courage and ability to blur genre boundaries while saying something real.
8. Disappear
“Disappear,” released in 1990 from the X album, is a dreamy, atmospheric pop-rock song that reflects the emotional vulnerability and depth INXS often wove into their music. Unlike some of the band’s more bombastic hits, “Disappear” takes a more introspective route, blending haunting melodies with shimmering production. Michael Hutchence’s vocals are front and center, filled with longing and fragility as he sings about the desire to escape the chaos and just be alone with the one he loves. There’s a quiet desperation in the lyrics, underscored by swirling guitars and a pulsating rhythm that evoke a sense of drifting or fading away. The chorus, simple yet powerful, lingers in the listener’s mind long after the song ends. It’s a track that doesn’t try to dazzle with volume but instead resonates through emotion and atmosphere. “Disappear” was a commercial success, particularly in North America, and has remained a fan favorite thanks to its emotional honesty. It showcases the band’s ability to balance intimacy with sonic polish, and it stands as a moving example of INXS’s versatility and Hutchence’s gift for bringing complex feelings to life through music.
9. By My Side
“By My Side” is a tender and emotional ballad that reveals INXS’s softer, more introspective side. Released in 1990, this song speaks directly to the universal human desire for love, presence, and unwavering companionship. The instrumentation is subtle and atmospheric, featuring gentle piano lines, understated guitar work, and a slow, steady rhythm that allows the emotion to take center stage. Michael Hutchence’s vocals are vulnerable and sincere, carrying the weight of the lyrics with quiet strength. He doesn’t need to belt—his emotional delivery speaks volumes with every line. The lyrics reflect on absence and longing, as the narrator expresses a deep need for someone to be with him through life’s uncertainties. It’s a song that has comforted many listeners, especially during moments of separation or loss. “By My Side” is often praised for its simplicity and emotional resonance. It’s not just a love song—it’s a moment of connection, an acknowledgment of how important it is to have someone stand beside you through life’s journey. It continues to be one of INXS’s most moving and enduring songs, often played at weddings, memorials, and meaningful life events.
10. Beautiful Girl
“Beautiful Girl,” released in 1992 as part of the Welcome to Wherever You Are album, offers a tender and compassionate portrayal of inner beauty and emotional struggle. Unlike many of INXS’s more energetic hits, this song leans into softness, both musically and lyrically. With a gentle piano-driven melody, understated percussion, and subtle guitar work, the track provides a delicate backdrop for Michael Hutchence’s heartfelt vocals. He sings not with bravado but with quiet assurance, offering comfort and admiration to someone who may not see their own worth. While the title suggests a romantic ballad, the song goes deeper—it’s been interpreted as an empathetic message to someone dealing with body image issues, insecurity, or depression. Its message is simple yet profound: you are beautiful, even if you don’t realize it. “Beautiful Girl” has resonated with listeners over the years for its sensitivity and emotional depth. It highlights INXS’s ability to explore human vulnerability with grace and musical restraint. The song remains a touching reminder of the power of kindness and affirmation, wrapped in a melody that soothes as much as it uplifts.
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.
