Dive into the timeless allure of INXS's iconic power ballad, a testament to enduring connection.
The Song
"Never Tear Us Apart" is a poignant power ballad by Australian rock band INXS, released in June 1988 as the fourth single from their massively successful sixth studio album, Kick (1987). The song's compelling music was crafted by keyboardist Andrew Farriss, who initially conceived it as a bluesy, uptempo number in the style of Fats Domino. However, producer Chris Thomas suggested a synth-based arrangement, transforming it into the sweeping, melancholic ballad it's known as today, complete with dramatic pauses and layered synthesizers.
Lyrically, the song is a deeply personal expression penned by frontman Michael Hutchence. He wrote the lyrics for his then-girlfriend, Australian film producer Michele Bennett, whom he described as his "first real love" and closest confidante. Kirk Pengilly's distinctive saxophone solo near the end adds a cathartic touch to the song's emotional intensity. Hutchence was particularly proud of how the song avoided typical rock ballad clichés, aiming to keep it "tough" while still conveying profound emotion.
The Artist
At the time of "Never Tear Us Apart"'s release, INXS was at the peak of their global fame. Having started as the Farriss Brothers in 1977, the band had steadily built a reputation for their dynamic live performances and a unique blend of pop rock, blues rock, and soul. Their Kick album, which followed successful releases like Listen Like Thieves, propelled them into international superstardom.
INXS consisted of Michael Hutchence (vocals), Andrew Farriss (keyboards, guitar), Tim Farriss (guitar), Jon Farriss (drums), Garry Gary Beers (bass), and Kirk Pengilly (guitar, saxophone). Their charismatic frontman, Michael Hutchence, became a global icon, known for his magnetic stage presence and evocative songwriting. The band's ability to evolve their sound while retaining their signature energy was key to their enduring appeal, culminating in an album that sold over 20 million copies worldwide.
Chart Performance
"Never Tear Us Apart" proved to be another significant hit for INXS. The single reached No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the US, spending 23 weeks on the tally. It also peaked at No. 5 on the Billboard US Mainstream Rock chart.
Internationally, the song saw considerable success, reaching No. 24 on the UK Singles Chart and staying on the charts for seven weeks. In their home country, Australia, it initially peaked at No. 14 on the ARIA Singles Chart. Following the success of the 2014 miniseries INXS: Never Tear Us Apart, the song re-entered the Australian charts via download sales, peaking at an even higher No. 11. The track also achieved Top 10 status in Belgium, Canada, and the Netherlands.
Cultural Impact
"Never Tear Us Apart" has cemented its place as one of INXS's most enduring and beloved songs, resonating deeply with audiences across generations. Its emotional depth has led to its frequent use in media, including a poignant appearance in the director's cut of the film Donnie Darko and in an episode of the TV series Euphoria, where it saw a 22% boost in Spotify streams following its feature. The song was also slated for use in the 2024 drama film Babygirl.
The track holds particular significance in Australia. In 2025, it was named "The Best Australian Song of All Time" on Triple J's Hottest 100 of Australian Songs, a landmark poll where it topped over 2.6 million votes across generations. After Michael Hutchence's tragic death in 1997, his coffin was carried out of St Andrew's Cathedral to the sound of "Never Tear Us Apart," further solidifying its status as an anthem for him and the band. It has also been adopted as an unofficial anthem by the Australian soccer club Newcastle Jets.
Fun Facts
- The striking music video for "Never Tear Us Apart" was filmed in Prague, Czechoslovakia (now Czech Republic), alongside videos for "Guns in the Sky" and "New Sensation." Director Richard Lowenstein was captivated by Prague's medieval architecture and insisted on filming there, making it one of the first Western music videos to be shot behind the Iron Curtain.
- The decision to film the video in Prague came about almost accidentally. Lowenstein had been shooting 8mm black and white footage of Prague and when it was played in the studio, the band noticed how perfectly it fit with "Never Tear Us Apart" which was playing at the time.
- The video features iconic Prague landmarks such as the Jewish Ceremonial Hall, Charles Bridge, and the Old Town Square. It won the ARIA Award for Best Video in 1989.
- In the video's extended intro, a shot through a broken street lamp towards an old building and a policeman can be seen. This building is the Jewish Ceremonial Hall.
- The track features a prominent saxophone solo by Kirk Pengilly, adding to its melancholic and seductive atmosphere.
- The song has been covered by numerous artists, including Tom Jones (featuring Natalie Imbruglia), Paloma Faith, and Joe Cocker. INXS themselves re-recorded it in 2010 with Ben Harper and Mylène Farmer for their album Original Sin.