The Australian rock band INXS has been a household name for decades, known for their unique sound, energetic live performances, and memorable hits like “Need You Tonight” and “Never Let You Go”. With a career spanning over four decades, the band has undergone significant changes, including the tragic loss of their lead singer, Michael Hutchence. This raises the question: is the band INXS still together? In this article, we will delve into the history of the band, their rise to fame, and the events that have led to their current status.
A Brief History of INXS
INXS was formed in 1977 in Sydney, Australia, by three brothers: Andrew, Tim, and Jon Farriss, along with their friends Michael Hutchence, Kirk Pengilly, and Garry Gary Beers. The band’s early years were marked by constant touring and gigging in local pubs and clubs, which helped them develop a loyal fan base and hone their craft. Their big break came in 1980 with the release of their self-titled debut album, which was followed by a string of successful albums and singles throughout the 1980s.
Rise to International Fame
The band’s popularity soared in the late 1980s with the release of their album “Kick”, which featured hits like “Need You Tonight” and “Devil Inside”. This album catapulted INXS to international stardom, with sales exceeding 10 million copies worldwide. The band’s unique sound, which blended rock, funk, and new wave elements, resonated with audiences globally. They embarked on a world tour, performing to sold-out crowds and cementing their status as one of the biggest bands of the late 1980s.
The Tragic Loss of Michael Hutchence
Tragedy struck in 1997 when Michael Hutchence, the band’s charismatic lead singer, was found dead in his hotel room in Sydney. His death was ruled a suicide, and it sent shockwaves around the world. The band was devastated, and their future was left uncertain. The remaining members of INXS took a break from music, struggling to come to terms with the loss of their friend and bandmate.
Rebirth and Revival
In the early 2000s, INXS began to explore the possibility of continuing without Michael Hutchence. They held auditions for a new lead singer, with the aim of finding someone who could fill the void left by Hutchence’s departure. The band eventually settled on J.D. Fortune, a Canadian singer who had appeared on the reality TV show “Rock Star: INXS”. With Fortune on board, the band released a new album, “Switch”, in 2005, which featured a more experimental sound.
Current Status and Activities
So, is the band INXS still together? The answer is yes, although they are not as active as they once were. The band has continued to perform and record music over the years, with various lead singers. In 2011, they released a new album, “Original Sin”, which featured a collection of re-recorded versions of their classic hits. The band has also embarked on several tours, including a 2011 tour with singer Ciaran Gribbin and a 2019 tour with singer Andrew Farriss’s son, Jakob Farriss.
Legacy and Impact
INXS’s legacy extends far beyond their commercial success. They have inspired a generation of musicians, including bands like Coldplay and The Killers. Their music has also been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials, introducing their sound to new audiences. The band’s impact on Australian music is particularly significant, as they have paved the way for other Australian bands to achieve international success.
Charitable Work and Philanthropy
In recent years, the members of INXS have been involved in various charitable initiatives, including supporting organizations that promote music education and mental health awareness. The band has also been recognized for their philanthropic work, with Andrew Farriss being awarded an Order of Australia in 2020 for his services to music and charity.
In conclusion, while INXS may not be as active as they once were, the band is still together, albeit in a different form. With their rich history, enduring legacy, and continued creativity, INXS remains one of the most beloved and respected bands of all time. Their music continues to inspire and entertain audiences around the world, ensuring that their spirit will live on for generations to come.
To summarize the current status of the band, here is a brief overview:
- INXS is still active, although they are not touring or recording as frequently as they once were.
- The band has continued to perform with various lead singers over the years.
- They have released new music, including the albums “Switch” and “Original Sin”.
- The members of INXS are involved in various charitable initiatives and philanthropic work.
As the music world continues to evolve, one thing is certain: the legacy of INXS will endure, and their music will remain a testament to the power of creativity, passion, and perseverance.
What happened to the lead singer of INXS, Michael Hutchence?
The lead singer of INXS, Michael Hutchence, tragically passed away on November 22, 1997. His death was a shock to the music world and his fans, and it marked a significant turning point in the band’s history. Hutchence was found dead in his hotel room in Sydney, Australia, and the coroner’s report concluded that his death was a result of suicide. The circumstances surrounding his death were widely reported, and it was later revealed that Hutchence had been struggling with depression and personal issues in the months leading up to his death.
The loss of Michael Hutchence was a devastating blow to the band, and it took them a long time to come to terms with the tragedy. The remaining members of INXS went on to pursue various projects, and the band eventually continued to tour and record music with different lead vocalists. However, the group’s sound and dynamic were forever changed by the loss of their charismatic frontman, and they never quite recaptured the magic of their heyday with Hutchence at the helm. Despite this, INXS’s music and legacy continue to be celebrated by fans around the world, and their iconic songs like “Need You Tonight” and “Never Let You Go” remain staples of 80s and 90s rock.
Is INXS still touring and performing music?
INXS has indeed continued to tour and perform music over the years, albeit with some lineup changes and hiatuses. After Michael Hutchence’s death, the band took a few years off before embarking on a series of tours and one-off shows with different lead vocalists. They have performed with singers like Terence Trent D’Arby, Jimmy Barnes, and J.D. Fortune, among others. While these incarnations of the band have been met with varying degrees of success and criticism, INXS’s music has remained popular among fans, and they continue to draw crowds at their live shows.
In recent years, INXS has been on hiatus, and the band members have pursued solo projects and other ventures. However, in 2019, it was announced that INXS would be reuniting for a series of shows and a possible new album. The reunion was met with excitement and skepticism from fans, who are eager to see the band return to the stage but also wary of the changes in the lineup and sound. As INXS looks to the future, it will be interesting to see how they navigate the challenges of continuing their legacy while also introducing their music to a new generation of fans.
Who have been the lead vocalists of INXS since Michael Hutchence’s death?
Since Michael Hutchence’s passing, INXS has had several lead vocalists, each bringing their own unique style and interpretation to the band’s music. One of the first singers to join the band was Terence Trent D’Arby, who toured with INXS in the late 1990s and early 2000s. D’Arby’s soulful voice and charismatic stage presence were well-received by fans, and he helped to breathe new life into the band’s live shows. Other notable lead vocalists who have performed with INXS include Jimmy Barnes, Jon Stevens, and J.D. Fortune, who won the reality TV show “Rock Star: INXS” in 2005 and went on to tour and record with the band.
Each of the lead vocalists who have worked with INXS has brought their own strengths and weaknesses to the role, and some have been more successful than others in capturing the essence of the band’s sound and spirit. While none have been able to fully replicate the magic of Michael Hutchence’s performances, they have all helped to keep INXS’s music alive and introduce it to new audiences. The band’s willingness to experiment and evolve has been a key factor in their enduring popularity, and their collaborations with different lead vocalists have resulted in some interesting and innovative performances.
What is the current status of INXS’s original members?
The current status of INXS’s original members is a bit complex, as the band has undergone several lineup changes over the years. The core members of the band, including Andrew Farriss, Tim Farriss, Jon Farriss, and Garry Gary Beers, are still involved in the music industry, although some have pursued solo projects and other ventures. Andrew Farriss, the band’s primary songwriter and keyboardist, has been working on new music and has released several solo albums. Tim Farriss, the band’s guitarist, has also been involved in various musical projects, including production and songwriting work.
In 2012, INXS announced that they would be retiring from touring, and the original members have since pursued their own individual projects. However, as mentioned earlier, there have been rumors of a possible reunion and new music from INXS, which has sparked excitement among fans. The band’s legacy and music continue to be celebrated, and their original members remain iconic figures in the world of rock music. Despite the challenges and changes they have faced over the years, INXS’s original members remain committed to their craft, and their contributions to the band’s music and history continue to be recognized and appreciated.
Did INXS’s music change significantly after Michael Hutchence’s death?
INXS’s music did undergo some significant changes after Michael Hutchence’s death, as the band experimented with new sounds and styles. With different lead vocalists, the band’s sound and dynamic necessarily shifted, and they explored new directions and influences. Some fans have criticized these changes, feeling that the band’s music was not as strong or cohesive without Hutchence’s distinctive voice and charisma. However, others have appreciated the band’s willingness to evolve and try new things, and INXS has continued to produce and perform music that is true to their spirit and legacy.
The changes in INXS’s music have also been driven by the band’s desire to stay relevant and fresh, and to connect with new audiences. While their sound may not be as universally recognized or beloved as it was during their commercial peak in the 1980s and 1990s, INXS has continued to produce high-quality music that showcases their musicianship and songwriting skills. The band’s later work, such as their 2005 album “Switch,” has been well-received by fans and critics, and they have maintained a loyal following around the world. As INXS looks to the future, it will be interesting to see how they continue to develop and grow as a band.
Can I still purchase INXS’s music and merchandise?
Yes, INXS’s music and merchandise are still widely available for purchase. The band’s back catalog, including their iconic albums like “Kick,” “X,” and “Welcome to Wherever You Are,” can be found on streaming platforms, online music stores, and in physical formats like CD and vinyl. Fans can also purchase INXS merchandise, such as T-shirts, posters, and other collectibles, from the band’s official website or from online retailers. Additionally, INXS has released several compilations and live albums over the years, which offer a comprehensive overview of their music and career.
For fans who are looking to explore INXS’s music and legacy, there are many resources available. The band’s official website is a great starting point, as it offers news, updates, and information about their history, music, and upcoming projects. Fans can also connect with INXS on social media, where they can share their love for the band and stay up-to-date on the latest developments. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering INXS’s music, there are many ways to experience and enjoy their iconic sound and style. With their enduring legacy and continued popularity, INXS remains one of the most beloved and influential rock bands of all time.