INXS At Wembley: Relive The Legendary 1991 Concert

Introduction

Hey guys! Let's dive into one of the most iconic live performances in rock history: INXS Live at Wembley Stadium. This concert, held on July 13, 1991, wasn't just another gig; it was a defining moment for the Australian rock band INXS, solidifying their place among the greats. The energy, the music, the sheer spectacle of it all – it's something that still resonates with fans today. For those who were there, it's a cherished memory. For those who weren't, the recordings and videos offer a glimpse into a truly magical night. But what made this particular performance so special? Was it the crowd of over 70,000 fans? Was it the flawlessly executed setlist packed with hits? Or was it the charismatic presence of Michael Hutchence leading the charge? The answer, of course, is a combination of all these factors and more. In this article, we're going to break down the elements that made INXS Live at Wembley a legendary event, exploring the band's journey to the stadium, the standout moments from the show, and the lasting legacy it left behind. We'll discuss the significance of this concert in the context of INXS's career, highlighting the impact it had on their trajectory and the broader music scene. We'll also delve into the technical aspects of the performance, from the sound and lighting to the stage setup and camera work, examining how these elements contributed to the overall experience. So, whether you're a die-hard INXS fan or just curious about rock history, stick around. We're about to take a trip back in time to a night when INXS ruled the world.

The Road to Wembley: INXS's Rise to Fame

Before we can truly appreciate the magnitude of INXS Live at Wembley, we need to understand the band's journey to get there. The story of INXS is a classic tale of hard work, talent, and a relentless pursuit of their dreams. Formed in Sydney, Australia, in 1977, the band originally went by the name The Farriss Brothers, named after the three founding members: Andrew, Tim, and Jon Farriss. Joining them were Garry Gary Beers on bass, Kirk Pengilly on guitar and saxophone, and, of course, the magnetic frontman Michael Hutchence. Early on, INXS honed their skills playing countless gigs in pubs and clubs across Australia. They were building their fanbase from the ground up, connecting with audiences through their high-energy performances and catchy tunes. Their sound, a blend of rock, funk, and new wave influences, was fresh and exciting, setting them apart from their contemporaries. The band's early albums, while not instant commercial successes, laid the groundwork for their future breakthrough. They were experimenting with their sound, refining their songwriting, and developing the stage presence that would become their trademark. It was during this period that the seeds of their global success were sown. By the mid-1980s, INXS had started to gain international attention. Albums like Listen Like Thieves (1985) and Kick (1987) propelled them into the mainstream, with hits like "What You Need," "Need You Tonight," and "Devil Inside" dominating airwaves and MTV. Kick, in particular, was a game-changer for the band. It showcased their versatility, their songwriting prowess, and Michael Hutchence's undeniable charisma. The album sold millions of copies worldwide and established INXS as a major force in the global music scene. This success was no accident. INXS were known for their relentless touring schedule, playing hundreds of shows each year. They were a band that thrived on the energy of a live audience, and they poured everything they had into their performances. Their reputation as a must-see live act grew, and their fan base expanded rapidly. So, by the time 1991 rolled around, INXS were at the peak of their powers. They had a string of hit albums, a devoted fan base, and a reputation for delivering electrifying live shows. Wembley Stadium was the perfect stage to showcase their achievements and cement their status as one of the world's biggest bands. The road to Wembley was long and challenging, but INXS had earned their place in the spotlight. They were ready to deliver a performance that would be remembered for years to come.

The Night of the Concert: Wembley Stadium Comes Alive

July 13, 1991. The atmosphere surrounding Wembley Stadium was electric. Over 70,000 fans, a sea of faces filled with anticipation, had gathered to witness INXS at the height of their powers. The air crackled with excitement, the kind that only a massive rock concert can generate. As the sun began to set, casting long shadows across the stadium, the stage came alive with lights and smoke. The roar of the crowd was deafening as the band members took their places, instruments in hand. Michael Hutchence, the charismatic frontman, stepped to the microphone, his presence alone enough to send the crowd into a frenzy. The opening chords of "Guns in the Sky" rang out, and the night officially began. From that moment on, Wembley Stadium became a cauldron of energy. INXS launched into a setlist packed with their biggest hits, each song delivered with a passion and intensity that was palpable. The crowd sang along to every word, their voices blending with Hutchence's in a powerful chorus. The band moved seamlessly from one song to the next, their performance polished and professional, yet still raw and full of emotion. The stage lighting and effects added to the spectacle, creating a visual feast that complemented the music perfectly. During slower songs, the stadium was transformed into a sea of lighters, tiny flames flickering in the darkness like stars. During the high-energy anthems, the crowd surged and swayed, a mass of bodies moving in unison to the rhythm. Hutchence, ever the showman, commanded the stage with effortless grace. He danced, he posed, he interacted with the crowd, drawing them further into the experience. His voice, strong and soulful, filled the stadium, carrying the emotions of the songs to every corner. But it wasn't just Hutchence who shone that night. The entire band was firing on all cylinders. The Farriss brothers, Andrew, Tim, and Jon, provided the musical backbone, their guitars and drums driving the songs forward with relentless energy. Garry Gary Beers's basslines were solid and funky, laying the foundation for the band's signature sound. Kirk Pengilly's saxophone added a touch of sophistication and soul to the music. Every member of INXS played their part in creating a truly unforgettable night. The setlist was carefully crafted to showcase the band's range and versatility. There were the hard-rocking anthems like "New Sensation" and "Devil Inside," the soulful ballads like "Never Tear Us Apart," and the funky dance tracks like "Need You Tonight." Each song was a highlight in its own right, contributing to the overall energy and excitement of the show. As the night drew to a close, the band returned to the stage for an encore, the crowd chanting their name. They played a few more of their biggest hits, leaving the audience wanting more. The final song faded out, the lights went up, and the stadium erupted in applause. INXS had delivered a performance for the ages, a concert that would be talked about for years to come. Wembley Stadium had come alive, and those who were there would never forget it.

Standout Moments from the Wembley Performance

The INXS Live at Wembley concert was filled with incredible moments, making it difficult to pinpoint just a few as the absolute best. However, there are certain performances and interactions that stand out as particularly memorable, showcasing the band's artistry and connection with the audience. One such moment is the performance of "Never Tear Us Apart." This iconic ballad is a fan favorite, and the Wembley rendition was nothing short of magical. The opening notes, played on a saxophone, filled the stadium with a sense of anticipation. As Michael Hutchence began to sing, his voice was both powerful and tender, conveying the deep emotions of the song. The crowd sang along, their voices blending with Hutchence's in a beautiful harmony. The atmosphere was electric, with thousands of lighters illuminating the stadium like a sea of stars. It was a moment of pure connection between the band and their fans, a testament to the enduring power of music. Another standout moment was the high-energy performance of "New Sensation." This song is a rock anthem, and INXS delivered it with the intensity and passion it deserves. The driving rhythm, the powerful guitars, and Hutchence's dynamic vocals combined to create an explosive performance. The crowd went wild, jumping, dancing, and singing along at the top of their lungs. The stage lighting and effects added to the spectacle, creating a visually stunning experience. It was a moment of pure rock and roll energy, a celebration of music and life. The performance of "Need You Tonight" was also a highlight of the night. This funky, danceable track is one of INXS's signature songs, and the Wembley performance was electrifying. The band locked into a groove, their playing tight and precise. Hutchence's vocals were smooth and seductive, drawing the audience into the song's hypnotic rhythm. The crowd danced and swayed, lost in the music. It was a moment of pure fun and energy, a reminder of the power of music to move and connect people. Beyond the individual song performances, there were also several moments of interaction between Hutchence and the crowd that stood out. Hutchence was a natural showman, and he knew how to work a crowd. He would often speak to the audience between songs, sharing anecdotes, making jokes, and expressing his gratitude for their support. These moments of connection added a personal touch to the performance, making the fans feel like they were part of something special. One particularly memorable moment occurred during the encore. As the band returned to the stage, the crowd erupted in applause. Hutchence stepped to the microphone and thanked the fans for their incredible energy and enthusiasm. He then dedicated the next song to them, saying that it was a song about love and unity. It was a simple gesture, but it meant a lot to the fans, who responded with cheers and applause. These standout moments from the INXS Live at Wembley performance highlight the band's incredible talent, their ability to connect with their audience, and the sheer magic of live music. They are moments that will be remembered by those who were there, and cherished by fans around the world.

The Legacy of INXS Live at Wembley

The INXS Live at Wembley concert is more than just a great performance; it's a cultural touchstone, a defining moment in the band's history, and a lasting legacy in the world of rock music. The concert served as a powerful statement about INXS's place in the music industry. By 1991, they had already achieved international success, but Wembley solidified their status as a stadium-level band, capable of captivating massive audiences. The sheer scale of the event, with over 70,000 fans in attendance, demonstrated the band's widespread appeal and their ability to connect with people on a global scale. The performance itself was a testament to INXS's musical prowess and their electrifying stage presence. The band was at the peak of their powers, delivering a polished yet passionate setlist that showcased their range and versatility. The energy in the stadium was palpable, and the connection between the band and the audience was undeniable. This concert captured INXS at their finest, leaving no doubt about their status as one of the world's leading rock acts. Beyond its immediate impact, INXS Live at Wembley has had a lasting influence on music and popular culture. The concert was filmed and released as a live album and video, allowing fans around the world to experience the magic of that night. The recordings have been widely praised for their quality, capturing the energy and excitement of the performance in stunning detail. The INXS Live at Wembley album and video have become classics, cherished by fans and studied by aspiring musicians. The concert also helped to raise the profile of Australian music on the international stage. INXS were pioneers in bringing Australian rock to the world, and their success paved the way for other bands from Down Under to achieve global recognition. The Wembley concert served as a powerful showcase for Australian talent, demonstrating the country's rich musical heritage and its ability to produce world-class artists. The legacy of INXS Live at Wembley extends beyond the music itself. The concert has become a symbol of the band's spirit and their unwavering commitment to their fans. INXS were known for their high-energy performances and their genuine connection with their audience, and Wembley encapsulated these qualities perfectly. The concert is a reminder of the power of live music to bring people together, to create shared experiences, and to leave a lasting impression. In the years since the Wembley concert, INXS have faced challenges and tragedies, most notably the death of Michael Hutchence in 1997. However, the legacy of the band and their music continues to endure. INXS Live at Wembley remains a testament to their talent, their passion, and their enduring impact on the world of music. It's a concert that will continue to be celebrated and enjoyed by fans for generations to come. So, guys, let's remember INXS Live at Wembley not just as a concert, but as a moment in time when music truly united us all.

Conclusion

INXS Live at Wembley is more than just a concert; it's a cultural landmark. It represents the pinnacle of a band's career, a moment where everything came together perfectly. From the electrifying performance to the massive crowd, from the iconic songs to the charismatic frontman, every element contributed to making this night unforgettable. The legacy of Wembley extends far beyond the music itself. It's a story of ambition, talent, and the power of live performance. It's a reminder of the magic that can happen when a band connects with its audience on a profound level. And it's a testament to the enduring appeal of INXS, a band that continues to inspire and influence musicians today. So, the next time you hear the opening chords of "Never Tear Us Apart" or the driving beat of "New Sensation," take a moment to remember that night at Wembley. Remember the energy, the excitement, and the sheer joy of being part of something special. INXS Live at Wembley is a gift to the world, a timeless reminder of the power of music. And for those who were there, it's a memory that will last a lifetime.