Why INXS Isn’t Always Mentioned Among the Best 80s Bands

INXS, often overshadowed in discussions of the 1980s music scene, deserves to be recognized as one of the greatest bands of that era. Despite their significant presence in the mid-to-late 1980s, the band has not received the same level of recognition as other 80s musical giants like The Police, Pat Benatar, and U2. This article explores why INXS is rarely mentioned as one of the best bands of the 80s, focusing on several key factors including market reception, posthumous success, and the influence of other genres on their legacy.

Market Reception and Popularity

During the 1980s, INXS experienced a meteoric rise in popularity. However, this was primarily within specific regions, notably Australia and the U.S. Outside these areas, the band struggled to gain traction. The title track from their 1988 album Kick, for example, gained substantial radio play, particularly after Michael Hutchence's death, leading to a resurgence in their popularity. But during the early and mid-1980s, INXS werent exactly household names in many parts of the world. This discrepancy in market reception contributed to the limited recognition of INXS as a leading band of the 80s.

Posthumous Success and Regret

The untimely death of Michael Hutchence on November 22, 1997, at the age of 37, marked the end of a promising career and contributed to the band's delayed renaissance. If INXS had managed to continue their musical journey after Hutchence's tragic passing, they might have received greater recognition in the years following the 1980s. The band's posthumous releases, such as Chairman MKIII and Listen, did see significant success, but they did not match the earlier heights of their career. This leads to a sense of regret, as INXS could have become revered as a legendary 80s band had Hutchence not passed away.

The Influence of Grunge and Contemporary Music Shifts

The rise of grunge in the early 1990s and its subsequent genre variants further impacted the recognition of INXS. Grunge introduced a raw, unpolished sound that contrasted sharply with the polished and sophisticated style of INXS. As grunge became more prominent, and later, alternative rock began to dominate, the sound that INXS was known for became less fashionable. This shift in music trends caused INXS to be less popular on classic oldies (AOR) radio in the 90s and beyond, further diminishing their place in the collective musical memory of the 80s.

A Great Example: The Swing (1984)

Despite being underestimated during their time, INXS has produced numerous timeless classics. One such album is The Swing (1984), which showcases the band's diverse musical influences and their ability to blend different genres seamlessly. The album includes hits like "Need You Tonight" and "Never Tear Us Apart," which are among the most enduring songs in the band's catalog. Listening to The Swing is a compelling experience, inviting listeners to immerse themselves in a gnarly, melodic journey through the bands sound.

Conclusion

INXS is an often-overlooked gem of the 1980s music scene. Their unique sound, lyrical content, and enduring popularity make them a significant and underappreciated influence on modern rock and pop music. While the band's death and the changing landscape of the music industry played a role in their delayed recognition, the world has finally come to recognize their contributions to the 80s and beyond. If the band had continued past the loss of Michael Hutchence, their place in musical history might have been different, but it's a testament to their talent and enduring legacy that they remain relevant even today.

Keywords: INXS, 80s Bands, AOR