INXS was an Australian rock band that achieved worldwide success during the 1980s and early 1990s. The band's unique sound, which blended elements of rock, pop, and funk, helped to establish them as one of the most innovative and influential groups of their era. INXS was known for their charismatic frontman, Michael Hutchence, who was widely regarded as one of the most dynamic and charismatic performers of his generation.
The origins of INXS can be traced back to 1977, when brothers Andrew, Jon, and Tim Farriss formed a band with their schoolmates, Michael Hutchence, Garry Gary Beers, and Kirk Pengilly. The band began playing gigs around Sydney, and soon built up a following for their high-energy live performances. In 1980, INXS released their self-titled debut album, which included the hit single "Just Keep Walking." The album was a commercial success in Australia, and helped to establish INXS as one of the country's most promising new bands.
INXS continued to build their fanbase over the next few years, releasing a string of successful albums, including "Underneath the Colours" (1981), "Shabooh Shoobah" (1982), and "The Swing" (1984). These albums showcased the band's eclectic musical style, which drew from a wide range of influences, including funk, reggae, and new wave. The band's popularity began to spread beyond Australia, and they started to gain a following in Europe and the United States.
In 1987, INXS released their breakthrough album, "Kick." The album was a massive commercial success, and featured hit singles such as "New Sensation," "Devil Inside," and "Need You Tonight." The album's success was due in large part to the band's innovative music videos, which were directed by acclaimed filmmaker Richard Lowenstein. These videos helped to establish INXS as one of the most visually striking and stylish bands of their era.
INXS continued to enjoy success throughout the 1990s, releasing several more hit albums, including "X" (1990), "Welcome to Wherever You Are" (1992), and "Elegantly Wasted" (1997). However, the band's fortunes took a tragic turn in 1997, when lead singer Michael Hutchence was found dead in a hotel room in Sydney. Hutchence's death was a devastating blow to the band, and they struggled to continue without him.
Despite this setback, INXS continued to perform and record music with a series of guest vocalists, including Terence Trent D'Arby and Jon Stevens. In 2005, the band launched a reality TV show called "Rock Star: INXS," which aimed to find a new lead singer for the band. Canadian singer J.D. Fortune won the competition, and went on to record one album with the band, "Switch" (2005).
Today, INXS is remembered as one of the most innovative and influential bands of the 1980s and early 1990s. Their unique sound, stylish image, and dynamic live performances helped to establish them as one of the most iconic bands of their era. Although the band's legacy was marred by the tragic death of Michael Hutchence, their music continues to inspire new generations of fans, and their influence can be heard in the work of countless musicians who have followed in their footsteps.
