Michael Hutchence (1960 - 1997) was the charismatic lead singer of the rock band INXS, whose first album, INXS, was released in 1980. The group was quick to pursue success overseas and by 1985, when Hutchence starred in the film Dogs in Space, they were contenders in the competitive US music arena. They were the only Australian group to play at the historic Live Aid concert in the early 80s and are credited with facilitating the subsequent international success of Australian bands such as Midnight Oil and Crowded House. By 1988 INXS was arguably the most successful Australian band ever with sales of their sixth album, Kick, around 7.5 million worldwide and a world rating of third most popular group. Their success continued with their 1991 albums Live Baby Live and X. Hutchence died in the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Double Bay in November 1997.
Purchased 2000
© Polly Borland
The National Portrait Gallery respects the artistic and intellectual property rights of others. Works of art from the collection are reproduced as per the
Australian Copyright Act 1968 (Cth). The use of images of works from the collection may be restricted under the Act. Requests for a reproduction of a work of art can be made through a
Reproduction request. For further information please contact
NPG Copyright.