The story of INXS is a testament to the power of shared roots, relentless dedication, and a dash of good timing. Their journey from the quiet suburbs of Sydney, Australia, to international rock icons is a captivating tale of friendship, perseverance, and ultimately, tragedy. Their initial lineup, remarkably stable for two decades, stemmed from a shared history in Sydney’s French’s Forest district. This foundation proved invaluable as they steadily climbed the ladder of success, navigating the complexities of the music industry and ultimately achieving global superstardom.
The Genesis of a Rock Juggernaut: The Farriss Brothers and a Fateful Day
The band’s origins trace back to the Farriss brothers: Andrew (keyboards), Jon (drums), and Tim (guitar). They, along with future frontman Michael Hutchence, bassist Garry Beers, and saxophonist Kirk Pengilly, initially performed under the moniker “The Farriss Brothers.” Hutchence and Andrew’s friendship solidified at Davidson High, where Beers also joined a precursor band called Doctor Dolphin. Meanwhile, Tim and Pengilly honed their skills in a separate group. Legend has it that the six musicians first converged during a jam session on the very day Elvis Presley died, a poignant intersection of musical history. While the veracity of this anecdote remains debated, the addition of the youngest Farriss brother, Jon, marked the true genesis of this future hit-making machine.
INXS: (L-R) Tim Farriss, Garry Beers, Kirk Pengilly, Michael Hutchence, Andrew Farriss, Jon Farriss
From Humble Beginnings to Finding Their Footing: The Perth Years and the Return to Sydney
Their initial performances were far from glamorous. Their debut as the Farriss Brothers occurred in August 1977 at Whale Beach, marking Tim’s 20th birthday. While the band members recall the event fondly, Andrew Farriss, in Jeff Jenkins’ book Molly Meldrum Presents 50 Years of Rock in Australia, offers a humorous anecdote about his father’s assessment of the performance: “Great show, but everyone was asleep when we left.” The early years were a testament to their unwavering bond. Andrew’s intervention in a fight between Hutchence and a school bully cemented their friendship, a bond that would be crucial in navigating the pressures of fame. As Andrew reflected in an interview with City Pages, these early connections were forged in naiveté, with little awareness of the extraordinary journey that lay ahead.
Hutchence’s childhood was marked by transience. The son of an Australian importer, he spent time living abroad, and after his parents’ divorced, he relocated with his mother to Los Angeles. This period of introspection fostered his creative spirit, as he delved into writing prose, poems, and stories. Upon returning to Australia, INXS became his anchor, a constant amidst the upheaval of his early life.
When the Farriss family relocated to Perth in 1978, the remaining band members followed without hesitation. They patiently awaited Jon’s high school graduation, utilizing the time to write songs, rehearse tirelessly, and perform in local venues. Hutchence, in a 1993 interview with the Sun-Herald, vividly described their grueling early touring experiences, playing in every conceivable venue, from bars and pubs to mining towns.
Ten months later, the band returned to Sydney, where they caught the attention of Midnight Oil’s manager, Gary Morris. Although their professional relationship was short-lived, it proved pivotal. It was during this period that the name “INXS” was conceived. Morris, inspired by an advertisement for IXL jam and the band XTC, proposed the name. However, other accounts credit the name to Deluxe Records, an independent label that later signed the band. Regardless of its true origin, the name INXS, with its enigmatic allure, became synonymous with their unique brand of rock.
The Rise of INXS: From Australian Pubs to Global Stages
On September 1, 1979, INXS officially debuted their new name at the Oceanview Hotel in Toukley. Their journey to international recognition was far from instantaneous. They parted ways with Morris by the end of 1979, and Chris “CM” Murphy, initially their booking agent, stepped into the role of manager, a position he held until 1995. Murphy recognized the band’s potential, drawn to their unique sound and Hutchence’s captivating stage presence.
INXS Live Performance during their Kick era
Under Murphy’s guidance, INXS defied expectations, achieving a level of international success rarely seen from Australian bands. Andrew Mueller, writing for the Guardian, eloquently captured their impact: “Before INXS, the idea that any group could graduate to dominance of the world’s airwaves from the sweaty beer halls of Australia seemed as strange and remote as the country itself.” Hutchence, in particular, challenged preconceived notions, proving that an Australian musician could become a bona fide international rock star.
Less than a year after their debut as INXS, they released their first single, “Simple Simon,” followed by their self-titled debut album in October 1980. A relentless touring schedule and a second studio album followed in 1981. While these early releases garnered respectable success in Australia, their breakthrough moment was yet to come. In 1982, Andrew Farriss, Hutchence, and Pengilly embarked on a mission to the U.K. and the U.S., armed with a demo tape. This bold move led to a new deal with WEA and the release of Shabooh Shoobah, which propelled them into the Australian Top 5. Their signing with an American record label in 1983 coincided with the release of “Original Sin,” a chart-topping hit in Australia, finally solidifying their trajectory towards international stardom.
The Legacy of INXS: A Lasting Impact on the Music World
For the next 15 years, INXS dominated the music scene, selling over 30 million albums worldwide. Their tight-knit bond, forged in their shared history, allowed them to weather the storms of the music industry. Tragically, their journey came to an abrupt end with the shocking death of Michael Hutchence in November 1997. Jon Farriss, in an interview with Pop Culture Classics, likened their long-standing collaboration to a marriage, acknowledging the challenges and rewards of their enduring partnership.
INXS’s story is one of extraordinary talent, unwavering dedication, and the enduring power of friendship. They left an indelible mark on the music world, proving that a band from the suburbs of Sydney could capture the hearts of millions across the globe. Their music continues to resonate with fans worldwide, a testament to their enduring legacy.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About INXS
What does INXS stand for? The exact origin of the name remains debated. Some attribute it to a combination of the IXL jam commercial and the band XTC, while others credit their record label, Deluxe Records.
Who were the original members of INXS? The original lineup consisted of Michael Hutchence (vocals), Andrew Farriss (keyboards), Jon Farriss (drums), Tim Farriss (guitar), Garry Beers (bass), and Kirk Pengilly (saxophone).
When did INXS form? The band’s roots trace back to 1977 when they performed as the Farriss Brothers. They officially adopted the name INXS in 1979.
What is INXS’s most famous song? While they have numerous hits, “Need You Tonight” is arguably their most recognizable song, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100.
What happened to Michael Hutchence? Michael Hutchence tragically passed away in November 1997.
We encourage you to share your own memories and questions about INXS in the comments below. Let’s continue to celebrate the music and legacy of this iconic Australian band.
