Legendary Australian rock band INXS has shared a poignant tribute to their former frontman, Michael Hutchence, marking 28 years since his tragic passing. The band took to social media to remember their 'brother', sparking an emotional outpouring from devoted fans across the globe.
A Heartfelt Social Media Homage
On Saturday, the official INXS Instagram account posted a series of images alongside a short but powerful message. The post read: 'Remembering our brother, Michael, today. We love and miss you.' This simple tribute resonated deeply with the band's followers, who flooded the comments with their own memories and condolences.
One fan reflected on the singer's lasting impact, writing: 'Michael’s spirit, artistry, and gentle soul continue to inspire so many of us around the world. His voice, his words, and the way he moved through this life still echo deeply in our hearts.' Another described Hutchence as 'truly one of a kind', noting that his music remains a treasure in their heart.
Personal Tributes from Bandmates
Keyboardist and principal composer Andrew Farriss also shared a personal tribute on his Facebook page. He posted a black-and-white photograph showing the two close together, with Michael offering an enigmatic smile to the camera.
'Thinking of Michael today,' Farriss wrote. 'Time has a way of moving forward, but some memories stay close no matter how many years pass. Grateful for the music we made together, the miles we travelled, and the moments that shaped us both. Always remembered.'
His post was met with a deluge of comments, with one long-time fan expressing that the singer's death felt 'as bad as anything that's ever happened in my life.'
A Legacy That Endures
The tragic event occurred on 22 November 1997, when the legendary frontman was found dead at the age of 37 at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Sydney's Double Bay. At the time, INXS were in the middle of a world tour and were due to complete the final leg in Australia.
Despite the decades that have passed, the band members have openly discussed their continued struggle with the loss. In a past interview on the 20th anniversary, members Kirk Pengilly, Jon Farriss, and Tim Farriss spoke candidly. Jon Farriss revealed he still experiences involuntary 'what if' moments, waking up thinking he was about to go on stage with Michael.
INXS were one of the first Australian bands to achieve global superstardom, selling an incredible 15 million albums in the United States alone and over 50 million worldwide. Their legacy remains potent today. In a remarkable feat, INXS shot back into the UK charts in May 2025, more than a decade after they broke up, thanks to the 40th-anniversary re-release of their breakthrough album 'Listen Like Thieves'. Furthermore, their iconic 1987 single 'Never Tear Us Apart' recently nabbed the number one spot in Triple J's Hottest 100 of Australian Songs poll, proving the timeless appeal of Hutchence's unforgettable voice and the band's powerful music.
