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Michael Hutchence In Silver Shirt by John Stoddart

MICHAEL HUTCHENCE

© John Stoddart

JUST A MAN

Michael Kelland John Hutchence (January 22, 1960 – November 22, 1997) was one of rock music's most magnetic frontmen. Born in Sydney, Australia, and shaped by a childhood that took him from Hong Kong to California, Michael brought natural stage presence, poetic sensibility, and raw artistry to everything he did. His friendship with Andrew Farriss — forged on his first day at Davidson High School — became one of music's great creative partnerships, forming the backbone of INXS and producing a catalogue of songs still heard around the world today.

As the lead singer of INXS, Michael led the band from Sydney pub gigs to sold-out arenas on every continent, achieving international stardom with landmark albums like Kick (1987) and performances that drew comparisons to Mick Jagger and Jim Morrison. Beyond music, he earned praise for his acting and recorded a critically acclaimed solo album as Max Q. Beloved for his warmth and an almost reluctant magnetism, Michael remains an enduring icon whose influence continues to be felt long after his passing in 1997.

Michael Hutchence, photographed by Julian Broad.

© Photo by Julian Broad

A beautiful man. Sometimes it was grief, I think it can affect you in a different way. And, I wrote this song...as kind of like an angry song in a sort of a way, it's like an argument between two friends, and that's what contrasts the emotion of this beautiful chorus.

"

Bono U2 Signature Autograph

Bono (U2) talks about the meaning of the song, "Stuck In A Moment You Can't Get Out Of" as a fictional conversation with his friend, Michael Hutchence.​

INXS Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction 2026 Logo

THE VOTE RESULTS ARE IN

The results are officially in for the 2026 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Fan Vote! A massive congratulations to all of this year's incredible nominees — The Black Crowes, Jeff Buckley, Mariah Carey, Phil Collins, Melissa Etheridge, Lauryn Hill, Billy Idol, Iron Maiden, Joy Division/New Order, New Edition, Oasis, P!NK, Sade, Shakira, Luther Vandross, and Wu-Tang Clan.

 

What an extraordinary class of artists who have shaped the soundtrack of generations. Thank you to every fan who cast their ballot — your voice matters! Now, sit tight as the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame prepares to officially announce the 2026 inductees in April. Stay tuned!

FEATURED VIDEO

2005 Inductees U2 and Mick Jagger perform "Stuck in a Moment You Can't Get Out Of" at the 25th Anniversary concert in 2009.

LATEST NEWS

Michael Hutchence, smoking a cigarette. Photgraphed by Juergen Teller.

Still KICK-ing. The Michael Hutchence Site Re-launches.

From the pub stages of Sydney to sold-out arenas across five continents, Michael Hutchence left an indelible mark on everyone he encountered. Since his passing in November 1997, that mark has only deepened — kept alive by family, friends and fans who refused to let the tabloid years become the final word on his life.

 

Launched in 2004, this site has always been the labor of that collective love. Now, completely rebuilt and optimized for all experiences, it returns with one clear purpose: to be the complete resource for everything Michael Hutchence. The music, the story, the man — all of it in one place, with the honesty and spirit he always deserved.

© Photo by Juergen Teller

KICK - Audiophile

INXS' 'KICK' Set For Limited Edition Audiophile Reissue

A new audiophile vinyl edition of INXS's blockbuster 1987 album Kick will be released on May 1, 2026, by Rhino High Fidelity. Cut from the original master tapes by Kevin Gray, this limited edition of 5,000 individually numbered copies is pressed on 180-gram black vinyl and features glossy gatefold packaging with new liner notes by David Fricke.

Pre-Order Now

‘Incredibly Moving’: INXS React to ‘‘Toy Story 5’ Trailer

The teaser trailer for Pixar's Toy Story 5 (releasing June 19, 2026) features the 1987 hit "Never Tear Us Apart"

 

"Never Tear Us Apart" has always held a special place in our hearts, and seeing it in the Toy Story universe is incredibly moving for all of us,” INXS told Rolling Stone AU/NZ.

Watch The Trailer

Toy Story 5 Trailer, Never Tear Us Apart

Listen Like Thieves 40th Anniversary Out Now

The deluxe edition includes remastered tracks, new liner notes, and demos, highlighting the album that helped them achieve global success.

The deluxe edition spans one LP and three CDs. The package includes a brand new stereo mix of the original album by Giles Martin and Paul Hicks.

Order Now

Michael Hutchence on the telephone in a hotel room.

PUT IT ON THE LINE

The Michael Hutchence Website. Join our social community.

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