From the glittering streets of Sydney to the farthest corners of the world, the electrifying sounds of INXS have captivated audiences for decades. With a unique fusion of rock, pop, and new wave, the Australian band became synonymous with an era, leaving an indelible mark on the music industry. In this article, we embark on a journey through the illustrious discography of INXS, as we pay homage to their unforgettable musical legacy by exploring the top 10 best songs ever crafted by this iconic group.
INXS emerged onto the music scene in the late 1970s and quickly rose to prominence, captivating fans with their infectious energy and irresistible hooks. Their music encompassed a diverse range of themes, blending passionate lyrics with the charismatic stage presence of their enigmatic frontman, Michael Hutchence. Each song possessed an unmistakable power, a mesmerizing quality that took listeners on a sonic adventure.
From their early underground hits to their chart-topping anthems, INXS consistently pushed boundaries and reinvented themselves with every album. Whether it was the sultry vibes of “Need You Tonight,” the anthemic proclamation of “New Sensation,” or the haunting allure of “Never Tear Us Apart,” INXS consistently delivered tracks that resonated with a global audience.
Join us as we delve into the sonic tapestry of INXS and celebrate their artistry by counting down their 10 most exceptional songs. Brace yourself for a nostalgic journey that will reignite your love for the classics and introduce you to hidden gems within their impressive repertoire. Prepare to be immersed in the infectious rhythms, soul-stirring melodies, and timeless magic of the top 10 best INXS songs of all time.
1. Suicide Blonde
One of INXS's most iconic songs, this hit from the early 90s captivated audiences with its edgy lyrics and infectious beat. The song showcases the band's unique blend of rock, pop, and new wave influences, along with Michael Hutchence's captivating vocals. "Suicide Blonde" explores themes of sexuality and danger while offering up an enticing hook that is impossible to resist. With its memorable chorus and lively guitar riffs, this track remains one of INXS's most popular hits.
Building on its success, the song also featured a striking music video that drew inspiration from surrealist art and fashion. Featuring grunge-inspired fashion and bold visuals, the "Suicide Blonde" music video became a pop culture phenomenon in its own right.
In addition to its musical merits, "Suicide Blonde" also marks an important chapter in INXS's career as it represents their transition from their earlier sound to more experimental styles. As such, it remains a crucial part of the band's legacy to this day.
Don't miss out on experiencing one of INXS's top hits by checking out "Suicide Blonde" today. Its infectious energy and daring attitude are sure to leave you captivated long after the last notes fade away.
Listen to this song and you'll realize why INXS was the only thing that didn't need changing in the '80s.
2. Don’t Change
This track is a tribute to the beauty of innocence, the song '2. Don't Change' is an iconic masterpiece that has stood the test of time with its timeless appeal and message of hopefulness. It is a post-punk classic that returns us to an era full of musical experimentation and emotive lyrics.
The melody, composed by Andrew Farriss, perfectly complements Hutchence's distinctive vocals and rich lyrics. The addictive synth hook immediately draws you in, encapsulating the energetic vibrancy that characterised some of INXS's most significant hits.
Moreover, the track stands out due to its impressive use of positive reinforcement as a driving force behind the messaging. The band was well aware of this and went on to perform it religiously in their live shows, dedicating it largely to their female fans.
The song's power lies in its simplicity combined with Hutchence’s emotional vocal delivery; it avoids descending into triviality while maintaining a catchy and meaningful tune throughout. As such, it remains etched into our collective musical consciousness over three decades since its initial release.
Original Sin: the ultimate proof that INXS knew how to make sin catchy and irresistible, just like that one ex you can't help but keep going back to.
3. Original Sin
Immerse yourself in the soulful sound of INXS with one of their most iconic hits – '3. Original Sin'. This upbeat track was released in 1984 and topped charts across the globe. Its catchy lyrics and melody are still popular today, making it a fan favorite.
| Album Name: | The Swing |
| Year Released: | 1984 |
| Lyrics by: | Michael Hutchence & Andrew Farriss |
| Genre: | New Wave, Funk Rock |
This song's popularity can be attributed to its intriguing lyrics inspired by romantic poetry that tell tales of rebellion and passion. The unique combination of drum machines, saxophone riffs, and guitar rhythms in the instrumentation further adds to its charm and appeal.
Loved by both longtime fans as well as younger generations discovering it anew, '3. Original Sin' continues to stand as a testament to INXS's timeless music.
This epic masterpiece had a significant impact on many, including some of the band members themselves. Lead singer Michael Hutchence once revealed in an interview that this track was one of his personal favorites and always lifted his mood whenever he listened to it.
So go ahead and give this unforgettable hit a listen – let it transport you back in time while keeping you grooving all night long!
Get ready to groove with 'Good Times' – the song so infectious, even quarantine couldn't stop it.
4. Good Times
This track, originally recorded by Australian rock band The Easybeats in the late 1960s, was famously covered by INXS and Jimmy Barnes for the Lost Boys film soundtrack. "Good Times" features Barnes' raw and powerful vocals alongside Michael Hutchence's smooth delivery, creating a dynamic and memorable collaboration. The upbeat tempo and catchy guitar riffs make it a definite fan favorite.
Adding to its legacy, "Good Times" was also used extensively in advertising campaigns for companies such as KFC, Pepsi, and Target.
New Sensation will have you feeling like you're on top of the world, until you realize it's just the high from the addictive chorus.
5. New Sensation
This track captures INXS's signature sound with Michael Hutchence's strong vocals and upbeat rhythm. It was released in 1987 as the third single from their album 'Kick,' selling over a million copies worldwide. '5. New Sensation' celebrates the exciting rush that comes with new experiences, epitomizing the thrill of rock and roll music. The song's unforgettable opening riff, mesmerizing percussion, and electrifying guitar solo make it a classic dance-floor filler till date.
When you listen to '5. New Sensation,' you can feel the confident energy that defined INXS during their heyday- every note crackles with electricity as the band delivers an infectious performance. This single brings together Hutchence's captivating falsetto and dynamic stage presence with the band's raw instrumental prowess. The lyrics are concise but impactful, a testament to their ability to make every word count.
Interestingly enough, 'New Sensation' wasn't originally meant for INXS- it was written by Andrew Farriss for his side project, which he ultimately abandoned. When Hutchence heard the demo tape, he knew that it had massive potential and convinced Farriss to let them record it under INXS.
If you're looking for an anthem that encapsulates the excitement of personal reinvention and limitless possibilities, look no further than this iconic track by INXS. Don't miss out on experiencing one of Australia's greatest bands at their finest- Give '5. New Sensation' a listen today!
When INXS said 'come over here', Need You Tonight became both a seductive invitation and a command to bop your head to the beat.
6. Need You Tonight
The sensual lyrics combined with the funk-influenced rhythm make this song timeless. With Michael Hutchence’s captivating stage presence and provocative lyrics, this track has become one of the band's most iconic songs.
In the music video, Hutchence wears a black suit and shirtless while delivering his vocals to the camera in seductive tones. The addition of repeated finger snaps and Coyote Shivers’ guitar prowess make for a perfect collaboration that elevates it beyond an ordinary dance track.
Apart from its commercial success, '6. Need You Tonight' has also won numerous awards, including MTV Video Music Award for Best Editing in a Video and Best Group Video. It is still considered one of INXS's signature songs since its release back in 1987.
Fun fact: According to an interview with songwriter Andrew Farriss published by Songfacts, 'Need You Tonight' was written as "a bit of a piss-take" after he overheard his fellow bandmate Lenny Kravitz’s making demands on the phone to someone who needed him urgently.
Warning: Listening to 'Devil Inside' may lead to an uncontrollable urge to dance like a possessed demon.
7. Devil Inside
This song, known for its catchy beat and sultry lyrics, is one of INXS's most iconic hits. It showcases the band's ability to seamlessly blend rock with electronic elements, creating a unique sound that defined the era of new wave music. With Michael Hutchence's trademark vocals and an unforgettable chorus, "Devil Inside" continues to be a fan favorite that stands the test of time.
Grab some tissues and prepare to feel all the 80s nostalgia vibes with 'Never Tear Us Apart', the song that could make even a robot shed a tear.
8. Never Tear Us Apart
This iconic INXS song is a timeless classic. Its haunting melody is matched only by its evocative lyrics, which speak to the indomitable strength of true love. The track was released in 1987 and quickly became one of the band's most popular offerings.
'Never Tear Us Apart' showcases the band's signature sound, with Michael Hutchence's vocals soaring over a backdrop of lush instrumentation. The song is a testament to the power of perseverance in the face of adversity and has long been cherished by fans for its heartfelt message.
Interestingly, 'Never Tear Us Apart' wasn't initially intended to be a single. However, upon release, it quickly became clear that this was a standout track worthy of recognition. Today, it remains one of INXS's most beloved works and continues to resonate with listeners around the globe.
If you haven't yet had the pleasure of experiencing 'Never Tear Us Apart', now is the time to do so. This powerful ballad is sure to move even the most stoic listener – so don't wait any longer to give it a listen and discover why it deserves its place among INXS's best work.
'Listen Like Thieves? More like 'Dance Like No One's Watching' with this infectious groove.'
9. Listen Like Thieves
One of INXS's highlights was their album titled "Listen Like Thieves," which had a vast array of some of the band's greatest hits. This 1985 album showcased a perfect blend between rock and pop, a sound that defined INXS as innovators in the music industry.
The album's hit single, also titled "Listen Like Thieves," was an energetic rock track with a catchy chorus that drew listeners in immediately. This track also proved to be popular among fans who were introduced to the band through its inclusion in MTV programming.
Apart from the title track, other notable songs on the album include "What You Need" and "Kiss The Dirt (Falling Down The Mountain)." These tracks solidified INXS's position in mainstream pop culture and developed a dedicated fan following around the world.
The snappy guitar riffs on Listen Like Thieves were perfectly complimented by Michael Hutchence's distinctive voice, creating an unforgettable overall sound. Anyone who wants to explore INXS's musical heritage is advised to start with this must-listen-to album.
Disappearing from the charts may have been INXS's fate, but "Disappear" remains a fan favorite.
10. Disappear
This notable INXS song refers to someone's loss, or the feeling of vanishing without a trace. It is an iconic representation of our generation and has been a staple of radio stations around the world, ranking high on music charts for years. With its vibrant instrumentation and Michael Hutchence's captivating vocals, "Disappear" remains a classic rock song that will always stand the test of time.
The song was written by Andrew Farriss and Michael Hutchence, with lyrics that refer to the disappearing act of someone significant in one's life. The melody matches up with the lyrics quite well, creating a melancholic atmosphere that characterizes many INXS classics. The instrumentation is masterful with guitars and drums working harmoniously together to produce something magical.
Fun fact: 'Disappear' was released as a single in 1990 but it failed to chart in their home country of Australia.
Pro tip: For the full experience, take some time to contemplate what this song means and let it sink in. You'll find yourself listening to it repeatedly!
Samuel Moore 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.
