Step by Step: The Journey of INXS as a Rock Group
INXS is an Australian rock band formed in Sydney in 1977. The group consists of six members, Michael Hutchence (vocals), Kirk Pengilly (guitar and saxophone), Garry Gary Beers (bass), Tim Farriss (guitar), Jon Farriss (drums) and Andrew Farriss (keyboard). INXS became a household name during the 80s and early 90s, selling more than 30 million albums worldwide.
The Beginning
INXS started as a garage band with its members being friends from high school. Even though they started playing music together as teenagers, they didn’t officially form the band until 1977. Initially, the band focused on playing cover songs at local gigs.
The Rise
Within a year of forming, INXS began to gain recognition in Australia thanks to their dynamic live performances. Their first album “INXS” released in 1980 received critical acclaim and success beyond their expectations. It featured hit singles like “Just Keep Walking” and “Stay Young.” The second album, “Underneath The Colours”, was released later that same year followed by “Shabooh Shoobah” in 1982 which sealed their place as one of Australia’s biggest bands.
Climbing The Ladder To Success
By the time INXS released their fourth album “The Swing” in 1984 the band had already established itself internationally. The album featured hits such as “Original Sin,” “Dancing on the Jetty” and “I Send a Message”. They were also nominated for six ARIA Awards that same year winning three including Best Group.
Breaking International Market
Without any fuss or pretension, INXS set out on a world tour where they performed live shows to thousands of fans around the globe. Supported with hits like “This Time” it wasn’t long before they achieved their first US top ten hit; “What You Need”. Later that same year, INXS released “Kick,” which immediately broke them into the mainstream. It featured hit singles such as “New Sensation,” “Devil Inside” and “Need You Tonight”.
Iconic Status
INXS iconic status was solidified in 1991 when they were chosen to perform at Wembley Stadium for one of rock‘s biggest gatherings – Live Aid. The band continued to release popular songs throughout the rest of the 90s including “The Gift”, “Bitter Tears” and “Suicide Blonde”. Their greatest hits album, called simply “The Best Of INXS” was released in 1994.
End Of An Era
Tragically, Michael Hutchence died on November 22nd,1997; reportedly committed suicide in his hotel room in Sydney. After Hutchence’s death, the remaining band members decided to continue playing music under the name INXS. However, it wasn’t until 2005 that they found a new lead singer named JD Fortune via a reality singing competition show called “Rock Star: INXS.”
Legacy
Throughout their career, INXS with its energetic live performances uniting fans globally was awarded numerous awards and accolades. They have received multiple Grammy nominations along with several MTV Video Music Awards including Best Group twice. The band continues to inspire many leading rock bands to this day, keeping alive their philosophy of living life boldly through music.
Overall, INXS remains one of Australia’s greatest and most influential rock groups of all time with an impressive legacy spanning over four decades leaving an indelible mark on music lovers worldwide!
INXS FAQ: Answers to Your Burning Questions About the Band
INXS was an Australian rock band formed in 1977, and over the course of their career they became synonymous with the new wave and pop rock movements. The band experienced a great deal of success in the 1980s and early 1990s, but their story was tragically cut short with the death of lead singer Michael Hutchence in 1997.
Despite being active for only two decades, INXS left a lasting impact on the world of music that still resonates today. Here are some frequently asked questions about the band that might help you understand why their legacy endures.
Who were the members of INXS?
The original lineup consisted of Andrew Farriss (keyboards), Jon Farriss (drums), Tim Farriss (guitar), Kirk Pengilly (guitar/ saxophone), Garry Gary Beers (bass) and Michael Hutchence (lead vocals). They recorded their first album in Sydney called “INXS,” which presented a unique combination of stylish rhythms and killer guitar riffs.
What songs did INXS become famous for?
The band had numerous hits throughout their career, including “Need You Tonight,” “What You Need,” “New Sensation,” “Devil Inside” and “Never Tear Us Apart.” But one song stands out as a true classic- “Kick’, which remains one of the best selling albums worldwide to this day.
Why were INXS so popular?
INXS had a knack for creating catchy melodies that would stick in your head all day long, coupled with electrifying live performances. Add to this mix Michael Hutchence’s natural charisma and good looks, you have all ingredients needed to reach great heights!
What was it like seeing them live?
INXS’ energetic live shows were always something to look forward to! With Hutchence’s captivating stage presence as well as his powerful voice, he could turn any club or stadium into an electric party. Even after Hutchence’s death, INXS continued to tour with guest vocalists until Jon Stevens came on board.
What was Hutchence like as a person?
Those who knew him often describe Michael Hutchence as a complex and charismatic individual. He was known for being passionate about art, poetry, and film. Musically, he had an incredible feel for melody and understood what the public wanted to hear.
What led to Hutchence’s tragic death?
Tragically, Michael Hutchence was found dead in a hotel room in Sydney in 1997. The cause of death was officially determined as hanging- although further investigation revealed that he may have been under the influence of drugs at the time of his death. Despite his untimely demise, however, his music still lives on today.
Has INXS disbanded since Michael’s passing?
No, the remaining members of INXS decided to continue making music by having different vocalists like Terence Trent D’arby or JD Fortunate filling in live performances. In 2005 they made their final album “Switch” with Jordy Birch prior to calling it quits as a band.
In conclusion
INXS represented an era when rock bands were defined not just by their sound but also their style and energy. Their extensive legacy includes numerous hit songs that generations of fans have come to know and love; they pushed boundaries with both their music and how it could be presented on stage. Although fans will forever mourn the loss of Michael Hutchence- his contributions have become imprinted upon popular culture forever!
Top 5 Facts You Need to Know About the Iconic Rock Group INXS
INXS is a rock band that has had a profound impact on the music industry since their formation in 1977. Over the course of their career, they have managed to etch their name in history with their unique sound and electrifying performances. With countless hit records and numerous awards, it’s not hard to see why INXS is considered one of the most iconic rock bands of all time. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at five facts you need to know about this legendary Aussie group.
1. INXS was formed in Sydney, Australia
INXS was founded in 1977 by three Farriss brothers – Andrew (guitar), Jon (drums) and Tim (keyboards). Alongside them were Kirk Pengilly (guitar/saxophone), Garry Gary Beers (bass guitar) and Michael Hutchence as lead vocalist. The band originally started playing small gigs around Sydney before eventually securing a contract with local label Deluxe Records.
2. The band’s first album failed initially but soon became popular
INXS’ self-titled debut album was released back in 1980 and didn’t receive much attention or success right away. However, the album ultimately became a cult classic after songs like “Just Keep Walking” and “On A Bus” began receiving airtime on Australian radio stations.
3. Mystify: Michael Hutchence biographical documentary sheds new light on the frontman’s relationships
One of the more fascinating stories surrounding INXS is that of lead vocalist Michael Hutchence which features prominently in Mystify -a biographical documentary shedding new stories from his close relationships he had including names such as Kylie Minogue, Helena Christensen along with former producer Ollie Olsen amongst others.
4. INXS won multiple international awards
INXS has won several awards over the years, including three Grammy nominations for Best Rock Performance by Duo or Group with Vocal for “Need You Tonight”, “Kick” and “Suicide Blonde”. In 1991, they won the Brit Award for Best International Group, cementing their status as one of the most successful bands of all time.
5. One of INXS’ most popular songs was written in just a few minutes
Perhaps the band’s most recognizable song is “Need You Tonight”. According to Michael Hutchence, he wrote the song while waiting for a cab to pick him up from his house. He scribbled down lyrics on an envelope and recorded a demo in just under ten minutes. The catchy bassline and seductive lyrics quickly caught fire and helped charted at #2 on US Billboard Hot 100.
INXS left an indelible mark on music with their catchy melodies, slick production, and unforgettable performances. Their influence continues to be felt today in artists such as The Killers, Franz Ferdinand, U2, amongst others. As fans continue to remember INXS through their music, these facts help cement the band’s legacy as one of the greatest rock groups of all time.
What Made INXS Stand Out Among Other Rock Groups of Their Time?
INXS, the Australian rock band formed in 1977, made their mark on the music scene throughout the 1980s and 1990s. Despite experiencing numerous lineup changes, the band was able to consistently deliver hit after hit, capturing the hearts of fans worldwide.
But what made INXS stand out among other rock groups of their time? There are multiple factors that contributed to their success:
1. Michael Hutchence
The late frontman of INXS possessed a magnetic stage presence and powerful voice that set him apart from many other singers of his era. He was a captivating performer who knew how to connect with his audience, making them feel as if they were part of the show. His charisma and swagger were undeniable and added an extra layer of excitement to every performance.
2. Innovative Style
INXS blended different genres seamlessly, incorporating elements of rock, pop, funk, and electronic music into their sound. This gave them a unique style that stood out from other bands at the time. Their use of synthesizers and drum machines helped them carve out their own distinct sound that was both catchy and danceable.
3. Hit Songs
INXS had an impressive string of hit songs throughout their career, including “Need You Tonight,” “New Sensation,” “Devil Inside,” and “Never Tear Us Apart.” These songs weren’t just popular; they were well-crafted tunes with memorable hooks and lyrics that captured a specific moment in time.
4. Collaborations
The band’s willingness to collaborate with other musicians set them apart from others in the industry. They worked with everyone from Tina Turner to Rob Thomas (from Matchbox Twenty). These collaborations helped expose INXS to new audiences while showcasing their versatility as artists.
5. Revolutionary Music Videos
INXS revolutionized music videos in the 1980s by creating short films rather than merely performing for cameras. Their videos often had storylines inspired by movies, making them entertaining and exciting to watch. They utilized innovative camera work and special effects that trendsetters.
In conclusion, INXS’s unique blend of style, Michael Hutchence’s charisma, hit songs, collaborations with other musicians and groundbreaking music videos made them stand out from other rock groups in their time. INXS was a band that defied categorization and left an indelible mark on the music industry.
The Legacy of INXS: How Their Music Shaped the Industry
INXS is a household name in the music industry. They burst on to the scene in the 1980s with their electrifying performances, memorable hooks and larger-than-life personalities. From their Australian roots to chart-topping success on an international stage, INXS was a force to be reckoned with.
Their music was infectious and appealed to fans of all ages. With hits like “Need You Tonight,” “New Sensation” and “Mystify,” they revolutionized the rock genre, blending it with pop and funk influences. Their sound was fresh, daring and energetic; it inspired future generations of musicians who aspired to create something just as innovative.
INXS may have broken up after lead vocalist Michael Hutchence passed away tragically in 1997 but their legacy continues to influence artists today. Below are some of the ways INXS reshaped the music industry:
1) Experimenting With Sounds
INXS’s music was full of experimentation, necessitated by multiple genres meshed together creating something unique entirely: which certainly made them successful.
Their willingness to experiment brought about a new frontier due allowing them break past limitations that existed from what was then conventional rock sounds – adding pop vibes, synths elements that pushed forward other bands too
2) Performance Style
INXS wasn’t just known for their music alone but also for their electrifying stage presence through engaging even those who were not ardent fans! With lead vocalist Michael Hutchence famously swinging his long hair around during concerts (which became his signature move). This made him a fan favourite giving performances that would have everyone grooving along.
3) Chart- Topping Success
Throughout its career (spanning over three decades), INXS produced hit after hit — including multiple album releases that ranked highly on charts such as Billboard etc., cementing themselves permanently amongst other artists honoured and celebrated for hits atop different charts globally!
4) Building A Loyal Fanbase
INXS always understood the importance of connecting with their fans, building genuine relationships and communication channels that kept their followers in touch. With such a unique sound capturing the hearts of so many, INXS was quite successful at keeping their fanbase growing; which gave them longevity in the industry.
Final Remarks
The legacy of INXS stands as a testament to what can be achieved with dedication, creativity and hard work. Their music has impacted countless artists across all genres — inspiring them to push boundaries and break down conventional limitations. Whether it’s through their unmistakable sound or electrifying stage presence, there is no doubt that the band has left an indelible mark on the music industry- one that continues to influence even years later!
INXS was formed in 1977 in Sydney, Australia, and quickly gained acclaim for their unique sound that featured a fusion of rock, pop, funk, and dance music. The band’s style was ahead of its time and earned them a dedicated following in Australia before they broke into the international market with their album “Listen Like Thieves” in 1985.
What set INXS apart from other bands at that time was the charismatic stage presence of lead singer Michael Hutchence. His sensual voice and magnetic personality captured audiences around the world. Hutchence had a way of captivating his audience through his vocal inflections and intense lyric delivery that left fans feeling emotionally connected to the songs.
The tragic death of Michael Hutchence in 1997 led many to believe it would be difficult for INXS to continue as a band without him. But despite this immense loss, INXS’s legacy has only grown stronger over time.
So why do we still love listening to INXS today?
One reason is that they created timeless music that transcends generations. Hits such as “Need You Tonight,” “Never Tear Us Apart,” and “New Sensation” are staples on classic rock radio stations across the world even decades after they were first released. The songs are just as fresh today as they were when they first hit airwaves.
Another reason is their songwriting ability – INXS lyrics often explored themes such as relationships, sexuality, and human connection which resonate with people regardless of age or background. Songs like “Mystify” delivers an electrifying mix of sensuality and longing while “By My Side” is a heartwarming tribute to the power of love and relationships.
Finally, the band’s ability to combine different genres of music seamlessly bridged the gap between rock and pop. They were a band that didn’t confine themselves to one genre but instead experimented with their sound to bring something fresh and new to the table. INXS was truly ahead of their time.
So while Michael Hutchence may no longer be with us, INXS continues to inspire and sway audiences with their timeless sound that still resonates deeply with so many people – young and old alike.