INXS, an Australian rock band formed in Sydney in 1977, is renowned for its energetic live performances and a string of hit recordings. The band is best known for its work with lead singer Michael Hutchence, whose charismatic presence and vocal talent helped propel INXS to international fame. Blending new wave, rock, and dance music, INXS created a unique sound that resonated with audiences worldwide.
INXS Career Highlights
1977 INXS was formed in Sydney by the Farriss brothers (Tim, Andrew, and Jon), Kirk Pengilly, Garry Gary Beers, and Michael Hutchence.
1980 Released their self-titled debut album, which included the single "Just Keep Walking."
1982
"Shabooh Shoobah" The band's third album, featuring hits like "The One Thing" and "Don't Change," began to gain international attention.
1984 "The Swing" Released the album featuring the single "Original Sin," which topped the charts in Australia and was a significant hit internationally.
1985 "Listen Like Thieves" The album included the hit single "What You Need," which reached the top five in the U.S.
1987 "Kick" Their breakthrough album featured hits like "Need You Tonight," "Devil Inside," "New Sensation," and "Never Tear Us Apart." "Kick" sold millions of copies worldwide.
1990
"X" Released the album featuring hits "Suicide Blonde" and "Disappear," which solidified their status as rock superstars.
1992 "Welcome to Wherever You Are" Despite critical acclaim, it was less commercially successful but featured hits like "Heaven Sent."
1997 Michael Hutchence's Death. The band's frontman died tragically in Sydney, marking a significant turning point for INXS.
2005 "Rock Star: INXS" The reality TV show aimed to find a new lead singer for the band, resulting in J.D. Fortune joining as the new frontman.
2010 "Original Sin" Released an album featuring re-imagined versions of their classic hits with guest vocalists.
2012 Final Tour. INXS announced they would no longer tour, effectively marking the end of their career as a touring band.
INXS Members
Original Lineup
Michael Hutchence (vocals)
Tim Farriss (lead guitar)
Andrew Farriss (keyboards, guitar)
Jon Farriss (drums)
Garry Gary Beers (bass)
Kirk Pengilly (guitar, saxophone)
Post-Hutchence
Jon Stevens (vocals, 2002–2003)
J.D. Fortune (vocals, 2005–2011, 2011–2012)
Ciaran Gribbin (vocals, 2011–2012)
INXS Grammy Awards
INXS has not won any Grammy Awards, though they received several nominations, including for Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal.
3 Most Famous INXS Songs
1. "Need You Tonight" (1987)
- From the album "Kick," this song became their only single to reach number one on the Billboard Hot 100.
2. "Never Tear Us Apart" (1987)
- Also from "Kick," this song is one of their most enduring ballads, known for its emotional intensity.
3. "New Sensation" (1987)
- Another hit from "Kick," showcasing their ability to blend rock with dance rhythms.
INXS Quotes
Michael Hutchence
I get pretty terrified of losing my voice. That's why I don't like smoking. I'm like, 'Oh my God! I lost my voice!
Andrew Farriss
The reality is, we really do have to come up with something that blows people away.
INXS Scandal/Gossip/Trivia
- Michael Hutchence's Death: Hutchence's death in 1997 was ruled a suicide, though circumstances surrounding his passing have been the subject of much speculation and media attention.
- "Rock Star: INXS": The reality show in 2005 was a unique attempt to revive the band by finding a new lead singer through a televised competition, which J.D. Fortune won.
- Innovative Marketing: INXS was known for their innovative music videos and marketing strategies, including the use of MTV to reach a broader audience in the 1980s.
- Collaborations: The band collaborated with numerous artists over the years, including Ray Charles on the re-imagined version of "Please (You Got That...)".
INXS ratings
INXS Albums
See also INXS Discography