INXS – Devil Inside: Lyrics and Music Video

"Devil Inside" by INXS is an edgy, energetic track that showcases the band's ability to blend rock, funk, and new wave into a danceable pop-rock anthem. Released in 1987 as one of the hit singles from their critically acclaimed album Kick, the song stands out for its hypnotic groove, gritty guitar work, and Michael Hutchence’s distinctive, dynamic vocals.

Key Details:

• Release Date: 1987
• Album: Kick
• Artist: INXS
• Writers: Typically credited to the band members, with key contributions from Michael Hutchence and Andrew Farriss
• Genre: Rock, Dance-Rock, New Wave
• Label: WEA (Warner Music Group)

Themes and Meaning:

• Inner Conflict and Duality:
  The lyrics evoke the idea of an inner struggle—a “devil inside” that represents the darker, more primal aspects of human nature. This ambiguity allows listeners to interpret the song as a commentary on desire, temptation, and the complexities of human emotion.

• Rebellion and Raw Energy:
  There’s a sense of defiance and raw passion throughout the track, reflecting both personal and artistic rebellion. The song’s energy hints at the tension between control and letting go.

Musical Style:

• Driving Groove:
  "Devil Inside" is built around a compelling, syncopated beat that invites movement. Its rhythmic bassline and punchy drums create an infectious dance-rock feel.

• Gritty Guitar Riffs:
  Electric guitar work adds an edgy texture, enhancing the song’s rebellious vibe.

• Dynamic Vocals:
  Michael Hutchence delivers the lyrics with a mix of intensity and charisma, giving the song a captivating and raw emotional edge.

• Polished Yet Raw Production:
  While the production is polished—as expected from the Kick album—the song retains a raw, almost underground edge that sets it apart from more straightforward pop tracks.

Commercial Success and Legacy:

• Chart Performance:
  The song enjoyed considerable airplay and commercial success, contributing to the overall triumph of the Kick album, which spawned several international hits.

• Enduring Appeal:
  "Devil Inside" remains a favorite among fans for its distinctive sound and live energy. It encapsulates the innovative spirit of INXS and the vibrant musical landscape of the late 1980s.

• Influence:
  As part of the Kick album, the track helped solidify INXS’s reputation as one of the era’s most influential bands, blending rock with danceable beats in a way that influenced countless artists in the years that followed.

In Summary:

"Devil Inside" by INXS is a powerful, dance-rock anthem that captures the tension between inner darkness and outward energy. Its infectious rhythm, edgy guitar work, and Michael Hutchence’s magnetic vocals combine to create a track that is both musically innovative and thematically provocative. As a standout single from the Kick album, it remains a testament to INXS’s creative prowess and a defining moment in 1980s rock music.