The Rarely Seen Acoustic Set Inxs Performed For A Children’S Hospital

April 2, 2025

On a chilly afternoon in the fall of 1997, a remarkable event unfolded at the children’s hospital in Sydney, Australia. The hospital was buzzing with anticipation as word spread that INXS, the legendary rock band known for their energetic performances, would be giving a rare acoustic set. For many of the children, trapped in the sterile white walls of the hospital, this was more than just a concert; it was a beacon of hope. They had been dealing with difficult health battles, and the prospect of live music brightened their spirits, if only for a moment.

As the band arrived, Michael Hutchence, the charismatic lead singer, stood out with his larger-than-life presence. But it was his genuine smile and warm demeanor that made him approachable. He and the rest of INXS set up their instruments in a small room filled with colorful drawings and toys, the clatter of medical equipment temporarily drowned out by the sound of soft laughter. For the band, this was an opportunity to give back, to share their music with a group of young fans who needed a bit of magic in their lives.

When the first notes of “Need You Tonight” filled the air, the room transformed. The children, some in pajamas with IVs attached, began to smile and sway, their worries fading away with every strum of the guitar. INXS chose to play their well-loved hits, but they stripped them down to their essence with acoustic arrangements. Michael’s voice, usually soaring in stadiums, resonated with a new kind of intimacy, connecting deeply with the small audience. Laughter erupted when one child cracked a joke mid-song, and Hutchence immediately smiled, incorporating the moment into the performance. It turned the concert into a shared experience, a celebration of life amid their struggles.

As the final chord rang out and the last notes faded, it was clear that the event had touched everyone in the room. Tears of joy streamed down some faces, and cheers erupted from the group. The band’s visit lasted only a few hours, but the memories they created would last a lifetime. For the children, it was a distraction from their reality and a reminder of the joy music can bring. For INXS, it was a chance to see the impact their music had on people and to appreciate life’s fleeting moments.

The performance at the hospital became a turning point for Michael Hutchence and his bandmates. They realized their role as musicians went beyond just entertaining; they could inspire and uplift. This experience stuck with them, pushing the band to embark on more charity efforts and performances that would benefit those in need. Michael often spoke about that day, remembering how the laughter and resilience of those children lit a fire in his heart, fueling his passion for music even further.

Years later, as the band continued to evolve, they never forgot the lesson they learned that day. It was a testament to the power of music—how it could weave its way into the fabric of one’s life, offering solace and connection. INXS remained committed to sharing their art with the world, inspired by the strength they witnessed from the kids at the hospital. In the end, the rare acoustic set was not just another concert; it became a powerful reminder of music’s ability to heal, uplift, and bring people together, no matter the circumstances.