INXS, one of the most iconic and influential bands of the 20th century, has left an indelible mark on the music world. With their unique blend of rock, funk, and new wave, they captivated audiences worldwide, producing hits like “Need You Tonight,” “Devil Inside,” and “Never Let You Go.” At the heart of their distinctive sound was the rhythm section, led by the talented drummer who provided the backbone to their music. But who is the drummer for INXS, and what role did they play in shaping the band’s success?
Introduction to INXS
Before diving into the specifics of the drummer, it’s essential to understand the context and history of INXS. Formed in 1977 in Sydney, Australia, the band consisted of three Farriss brothers: Andrew (keyboards), Tim (guitar), and Jon (drums), along with Michael Hutchence (vocals), Garry Gary Beers (bass), and Kirk Pengilly (guitar, saxophone). INXS quickly gained popularity in their homeland with their first album, “INXS,” released in 1980, but it was their 1985 album “Listen Like Thieves” that brought them international recognition.
The Early Years and Formation
The Farriss brothers, growing up in a musical family, were exposed to a wide range of genres from an early age. This eclectic upbringing influenced their unique sound, which would later define INXS. Jon Farriss, the drummer, was particularly drawn to the rhythmic aspects of music, inspired by artists such as The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, and funk bands like Parliament-Funkadelic. His innate sense of rhythm and creativity would become a cornerstone of INXS’s music.
Jon Farriss: The Founding Drummer
Jon Farriss, as one of the founding members and the drummer for INXS, played a crucial role in the band’s formation and early success. His contribution went beyond the typical role of a drummer; he was also involved in the songwriting process and helped shape the band’s sound. Farriss’s versatility and adaptability as a drummer were key factors in INXS’s ability to blend different styles and create their signature sound.
The Drumming Style and Influence
The drumming style of Jon Farriss was marked by precision, energy, and a deep sense of groove. He was adept at adapting to the various genres INXS explored, from the rock-infused tracks like “What You Need” to the more funk-oriented songs such as “Need You Tonight.” His ability to blend different rhythmic influences helped INXS stand out in a crowded musical landscape.
Technique and Equipment
Farriss’s technique was characterized by a strong emphasis on timing and feel, allowing him to provide a solid foundation for the band’s dynamic performances. He typically used a combination of acoustic and electronic drums, experimenting with various setups to achieve the desired sound for each song. This experimentation, coupled with his innovative approach to drumming, contributed significantly to INXS’s distinctive musical identity.
Collaborations and Solo Work
Beyond his work with INXS, Jon Farriss has also been involved in various side projects and collaborations. These endeavors have not only showcased his diversity as a musician but also underscored his commitment to pushing the boundaries of his craft. Although INXS disbanded after the tragic death of Michael Hutchence in 1997, Farriss’s legacy as a drummer continues to inspire new generations of musicians.
Legacy and Impact
INXS’s impact on the music world, particularly in the 1980s and early 1990s, cannot be overstated. Their unique sound, fueled by Jon Farriss’s dynamic drumming, influenced a wide range of artists across different genres. The band’s live performances, characterized by high energy and charisma, set a new standard for concert experiences, with Farriss’s drumming often being a highlight of the show.
INXS’s Discography and Notable Hits
The band’s discography is rich with albums that have become staples of rock and pop music. From their self-titled debut “INXS” in 1980 to their final studio album “Elegantly Wasted” in 1997, each release showcased the band’s growth and musical evolution. Some of their most notable hits include:
- “Need You Tonight” – A funk-infused single that reached the top of the charts in several countries.
- “Devil Inside” – A high-energy track with a memorable guitar riff and driving drum beat.
- “Never Let You Go” – A song that highlights the band’s ability to craft catchy, pop-oriented melodies.
Award and Recognition
Throughout their career, INXS received numerous awards and nominations, including several ARIA Awards and a Grammy nomination. These accolades are a testament to the band’s enduring influence and the significant contribution Jon Farriss made as their drummer.
Conclusion
Jon Farriss, as the drummer for INXS, left an indelible mark on the music world. His unique drumming style, combined with his innovative approach and versatility, played a pivotal role in shaping the band’s sound and success. As INXS’s music continues to inspire new generations, the legacy of Jon Farriss serves as a reminder of the power of creativity and dedication in music. For fans of INXS and those interested in the history of rock and pop, understanding the contribution of Jon Farriss offers a deeper appreciation of the band’s enduring appeal and the significance of their place in music history.
What inspired Jon Farriss to become the drummer for INXS?
Jon Farriss, the drummer for INXS, was inspired to become a musician from a young age. Growing up in a family of music lovers, he was exposed to a wide range of genres and artists, which helped shape his unique sound and style. Farriss’s interest in drumming began when he was just a child, and he would often watch and learn from other drummers, teaching himself the basics of the instrument. As he grew older, his passion for music only intensified, and he began to play in various bands, eventually leading him to co-found INXS with his brothers and friends.
Farriss’s journey as the drummer for INXS was marked by dedication, hard work, and a commitment to creating music that was both innovative and accessible. Throughout the band’s career, Farriss’s drumming played a crucial role in shaping the sound of INXS, which blended elements of rock, pop, and funk to create a unique and distinctive style. With his impressive technical skills and ability to craft infectious beats, Farriss helped drive the band’s success, both in the studio and on stage. His contributions to INXS’s music have endured long after the band’s heyday, cementing his place as one of the most talented and influential drummers in rock history.
How did INXS’s sound evolve over the years, and what role did Jon Farriss play in this evolution?
INXS’s sound underwent significant evolution over the years, transforming from a raw, post-punk sound in the band’s early days to a more polished, pop-infused style in the late 1980s and 1990s. Jon Farriss played a crucial role in this evolution, as his drumming adapted to the changing musical landscape and the band’s expanding ambitions. From the dark, moody textures of “Shabooh Shoobah” to the vibrant, danceable grooves of “Kick,” Farriss’s drumming provided a dynamic foundation for the band’s music, allowing them to explore new sounds and themes while maintaining their signature energy and swagger.
As INXS’s sound continued to evolve, Farriss remained a driving force behind the band’s creative vision, collaborating closely with lead singer Michael Hutchence and the other band members to craft songs that were both catchy and complex. His innovative approach to drumming, which blended traditional rock techniques with electronic elements and funky, dance-oriented rhythms, helped shape the sound of INXS’s most successful albums, including “Listen Like Thieves” and “X.” Through his contributions to the band’s music, Farriss demonstrated a remarkable ability to adapt and innovate, ensuring that INXS remained a vital and compelling force in the music world for over two decades.
What were some of the most notable songs and albums that Jon Farriss worked on with INXS?
Jon Farriss worked on many notable songs and albums with INXS, including some of the band’s most iconic and enduring recordings. One of the band’s earliest successes was the album “Shabooh Shoobah,” which featured the hit single “The One Thing.” This was followed by a string of highly successful albums, including “The Swing,” “Listen Like Thieves,” and “Kick,” which spawned hits like “What You Need,” “Need You Tonight,” and “Devil Inside.” Farriss’s drumming played a key role in the creation of these songs, which showcased the band’s unique blend of rock, pop, and funk influences.
Some of the band’s other notable albums and songs that Farriss worked on include “X,” which featured the hit single “Suicide Blonde,” and “Welcome to Wherever You Are,” which included the song “Heaven Sent.” Throughout his career with INXS, Farriss demonstrated a remarkable ability to craft compelling, rhythmic foundations for the band’s music, which helped propel them to international success and critical acclaim. His contributions to the band’s discography are a testament to his skill and dedication as a drummer, and his work with INXS remains some of the most beloved and enduring in rock history.
How did Jon Farriss’s drumming style influence the overall sound of INXS?
Jon Farriss’s drumming style had a profound influence on the overall sound of INXS, as his innovative and adaptable approach helped shape the band’s music and propel them to international success. With his unique blend of technical skill and rhythmic flair, Farriss created a distinctive sound that was both infectious and energetic, providing the perfect foundation for the band’s catchy, pop-infused rock sound. Whether he was playing driving, funky grooves or more atmospheric, textured patterns, Farriss’s drumming added a vital dimension to INXS’s music, elevating their songs and albums to new heights of creativity and expression.
Farriss’s influence on the sound of INXS can be heard in the band’s use of percussion and rhythm, which often featured complex, interlocking patterns and grooves. His ability to blend traditional rock drumming with electronic elements and funky, dance-oriented rhythms helped create a truly distinctive sound, one that was both rooted in the band’s rock heritage and open to new influences and ideas. As a result, INXS’s music was able to appeal to a wide range of listeners, from rock fans to dance music enthusiasts, and Farriss’s drumming played a key role in this broad appeal, making him one of the most respected and admired drummers of his generation.
What legacy has Jon Farriss left as the drummer for INXS, and how is his music remembered today?
As the drummer for INXS, Jon Farriss has left a lasting legacy in the world of rock music, one that continues to inspire and influence new generations of musicians and fans. His innovative and adaptable approach to drumming helped shape the sound of INXS, which remains one of the most beloved and enduring bands of the 1980s and 1990s. Today, Farriss’s music with INXS is remembered for its catchy, pop-infused rock sound, as well as its energetic and infectious live performances, which often featured the band’s charismatic lead singer, Michael Hutchence.
Farriss’s legacy extends beyond his work with INXS, as his drumming has also inspired a wide range of other artists and bands. His unique blend of technical skill and rhythmic flair has influenced a generation of drummers, from rock and pop musicians to electronic and dance music artists. As a result, Farriss’s music continues to be celebrated and enjoyed by fans around the world, with INXS’s greatest hits remaining staples of classic rock radio and their live performances continuing to be revered as some of the most energetic and unforgettable in rock history. Through his contributions to the band’s music, Farriss has ensured that INXS’s legacy will endure for generations to come, inspiring new fans and musicians alike with their timeless sound and energetic live performances.
How did Jon Farriss’s relationship with Michael Hutchence influence the music of INXS?
Jon Farriss’s relationship with Michael Hutchence, the lead singer of INXS, was a crucial factor in the band’s music and success. The two musicians shared a deep creative bond, which was rooted in their shared passion for music and their desire to push the boundaries of rock and pop. As the primary songwriter and drummer for INXS, Farriss worked closely with Hutchence to craft songs that were both catchy and innovative, blending elements of rock, funk, and dance music to create a unique and distinctive sound. Through their collaborative efforts, Farriss and Hutchence were able to create some of the most iconic and enduring songs in rock history, from “Need You Tonight” to “Devil Inside.”
The creative partnership between Farriss and Hutchence was marked by a deep mutual respect and trust, which allowed them to explore new musical ideas and themes. Farriss’s drumming provided the perfect foundation for Hutchence’s charismatic vocals and songwriting, which often explored themes of love, relationships, and social commentary. Together, the two musicians helped shape the sound of INXS, which was characterized by its infectious energy, catchy hooks, and innovative blend of rock and pop influences. Through their music, Farriss and Hutchence left an enduring legacy that continues to inspire and influence new generations of musicians and fans, ensuring that the music of INXS will remain a vital and compelling force in the world of rock and pop for years to come.
What impact did INXS’s music have on the 1980s and 1990s music scene, and how did Jon Farriss contribute to this impact?
INXS’s music had a significant impact on the 1980s and 1990s music scene, as the band’s unique blend of rock, pop, and funk influences helped shape the sound of a generation. With their infectious, danceable grooves and catchy, pop-infused hooks, INXS was able to appeal to a wide range of listeners, from rock fans to dance music enthusiasts. Jon Farriss’s drumming played a crucial role in this impact, as his innovative and adaptable approach helped create a distinctive sound that was both energetic and enduring. Through his contributions to the band’s music, Farriss helped propel INXS to international success, with albums like “Kick” and “X” becoming staples of the decade’s musical landscape.
Farriss’s impact on the 1980s and 1990s music scene can be heard in the work of numerous other bands and artists, who were influenced by INXS’s unique sound and style. From rock bands like U2 and The Police to pop and dance music artists like Prince and Madonna, INXS’s music helped shape the sound of a generation, with Farriss’s drumming providing a dynamic and energetic foundation for the band’s songs. Today, INXS’s music remains a beloved and enduring part of rock history, with their greatest hits continuing to inspire and influence new generations of musicians and fans. Through his contributions to the band’s music, Farriss has left a lasting legacy that continues to be felt in the world of rock and pop, ensuring that the music of INXS will remain a vital and compelling force for years to come.