Behind The Song: How “Devil Inside” Helped Make INXS Rock Gods

Podcast Information:

• Title: Behind The Song
• Host: Janda Lane, The Drive | Hubbard Radio
• Episode: How “Devil Inside” helped make INXS rock gods
• Release Date: October 11, 2023

Introduction

In the October 11, 2023 episode of Behind The Song, host Janda Lane delves into the creation and impact of INXS's iconic track, “Devil Inside,” highlighting how it propelled the Australian band into international superstardom. The episode provides an in-depth exploration of the band’s journey, the challenges they faced, and the profound influence of Michael Hutchence’s artistry.

INXS and the Rise of “Kick”

Background and Success: Janda begins by setting the stage with the release of INXS’s sixth album, "Kick", in 1987. Described as the band's "biggest seller" and a pivotal moment that transformed INXS into global rock legends, "Kick" included chart-topping singles like "Need You Tonight," "New Sensation," and the highlight of the episode, "Devil Inside."

Janda Lane [00:11]: “Kick was the biggest seller of their career and made the Australian band international superstars.”

Musical Diversity: The album is praised for its eclectic mix of genres—rock, soul, funk, new wave, dance pop, and symphonic alternative—which showcased INXS's versatility and ability to blend different musical styles seamlessly.

Overcoming Early Challenges

Initial Rejection: Despite the album's eventual success, INXS faced significant hurdles. Initially, their American label, Atlantic Records, rejected "Kick," deeming it "too dancey funky" and lacking a standout single.

Janda Lane [00:11]: “What if I told you that the album was at first rejected by their American label, who said they didn't hear a single among 'Need You Tonight,' 'New Sensation,' 'Never Tear Us Apart,' or the delightfully naughty 'Devil Inside.'”

Strategic Breakthrough: The band's manager, Chris Murphy, played a crucial role in overcoming this rejection. He surreptitiously presented "Need You Tonight" to the radio promotion department, which then focused on pushing the song on college radio. This grassroots approach led to its charting in September 1987, convincing Atlantic Records to finally support the album’s release.

Janda Lane [00:11]: “Only after this did Atlantic agree to add the album to the release schedule and it hit stores a month later in October.”

The Genesis of “Devil Inside”

Creation of the Song: "Devil Inside" originated from a catchy guitar riff that Andrew Farris conceived during downtime on tour. The riff evolved into the song's distinctive sound, while Michael Hutchence crafted lyrics reflecting the chaos and internal struggles he was experiencing.

Janda Lane [00:11]: “The somewhat sinister and very catchy guitar riff for 'Devil Inside' actually came to Andrew Farris during some downtime on tour a couple of years earlier and morphed into the song.”

Lyrical Depth: Hutchence described the song as a portrayal of the “fight between good and evil” within oneself and others, touching upon several of the seven deadly sins. The lyrics blend dark themes with an upbeat melody, creating a compelling contrast that resonated with listeners.

Janda Lane [00:11]: “‘Devil Inside’ was meant to be about the fight between good and evil that he thought existed in himself and everyone else.”

Michael Hutchence: The Charismatic Frontman

Personal Struggles: The episode also delves into the tumultuous life of Michael Hutchence, highlighting his internal battles and the excesses that accompanied his fame. Hutchence's relationships, particularly with Kylie Minogue and Paula Yates, were marked by public scrutiny and personal turmoil.

Janda Lane [00:11]: “Hutchence was in what he called a real God and the Devil phase, where the devil historically represents all the confusion and, yes, excess that he specifically was living through at the time.”

Tragic End: Hutchence's life came to a tragic end in 1997 when he was found dead in his hotel room, ruled as a suicide. The episode reflects on the legacy he left behind as a talented and charismatic lead singer whose struggles overshadowed his remarkable contributions to music.

Janda Lane [00:11]: “There was a time when INXS was the biggest band in the world and there was no rock star that burned brighter for that time than Michael Hutchence, a man who, in the end, couldn't outrun his own devils.”

Legacy of INXS and “Devil Inside”

Enduring Impact: "Devil Inside" remains a testament to INXS's ability to blend compelling narratives with infectious rhythms. The song's success played a pivotal role in cementing the band's status in the rock pantheon, ensuring that their legacy endures despite the challenges they faced.

Janda Lane [00:11]: “We remember their music as vibrant and alive, different in a way that could only have been created by this band of brothers and longtime friends from down under striking a chord around the world with the songs on 'Kick,' an album that almost wasn't released at all.”

Conclusion

Janda Lane's episode paints a comprehensive picture of how "Devil Inside" was more than just a hit single; it was a defining moment for INXS that showcased their resilience, creativity, and the profound artistry of Michael Hutchence. The story behind the song exemplifies the band's journey from Australian pub favorites to international rock gods, leaving an indelible mark on music history.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Janda Lane [00:11]: “Kick was the biggest seller of their career and made the Australian band international superstars.”
• Janda Lane [00:11]: “Only after this did Atlantic agree to add the album to the release schedule and it hit stores a month later in October.”
• Janda Lane [00:11]: “‘Devil Inside’ was meant to be about the fight between good and evil that he thought existed in himself and everyone else.”
• Janda Lane [00:11]: “There was a time when INXS was the biggest band in the world and there was no rock star that burned brighter for that time than Michael Hutchence, a man who, in the end, couldn't outrun his own devils.”
• Janda Lane [00:11]: “We remember their music as vibrant and alive, different in a way that could only have been created by this band of brothers and longtime friends from down under striking a chord around the world with the songs on 'Kick,' an album that almost wasn't released at all.”

For more insightful analyses and classic rock stories, subscribe to “Behind The Song” and follow Janda Lane on TikTok or listen live on 97.1 FM the Drive in Chicago.