How A Casual Encounter In Hong Kong Led To Inxs’S “Taste It”

April 2, 2025

It was a humid evening in Hong Kong, the kind of night when the city seems to pulse with energy. The vibrant streets were alive with the sounds of chatter, laughter, and the occasional clinking of glasses from the nearby bars. Among the throng of people was a man named Kirk Pengilly, the talented guitarist of the band INXS. He was there to soak in the sights and tastes of the city, but little did he know that this casual trip would spark a creative fire that would lead to one of the band’s most iconic songs, “Taste It.”

As Kirk wandered through the bustling markets, he felt inspired by the rich culture surrounding him. He watched street performers ignite the crowd’s excitement and caught snippets of melodies floating through the air. Each sound seemed to seep into him, igniting his imagination. Later that night, he found himself sipping a drink at a lively bar, where the floor was alive with music and people dancing as though their very souls were expressing the joy of living. It was here, in this electric atmosphere, that he struck up a conversation with a local artist named Mei, who shared her own passion for music and art over a shared table of dim sum.

Their conversation flowed easily, with laughter and stories bouncing back and forth. Mei spoke of how music could capture the essence of life, how it could express feelings words often failed to convey. Inspired by her insight, Kirk’s mind raced with ideas. He could feel a song forming within him, a melody that reflected the spirit of that vibrant night—full of connection, flavor, and freedom. As they parted ways, Kirk took a deep breath, knowing that the spark he had felt that night would fuel the creativity he needed for INXS’s next project.

Returning home, Kirk immediately put pen to paper, pouring his emotions into lyrics that captured the essence of his experience. He wrote about living in the moment, tasting the richness of life, and embracing passion without reservation. The energy of Hong Kong infused the words, transforming them into a vivid expression of desire and joy. As the band got together to compose the music, the infectious rhythms echoed the lively spirit of that evening, creating a sound that felt both fresh and timeless.

“Taste It” soon emerged, bursting with life and energy. Released in 1992, the song went on to become a chart-topping hit, resonating with audiences worldwide. The catchy melody and powerful lyrics were a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of seizing life’s fleeting moments. For Kirk and the rest of INXS, it marked a turning point in their career, reminding them of the beauty that could emerge from unexpected encounters. The song not only celebrated the thrill of passion but also reinforced their dedication to crafting music that was genuine and deeply felt.

As the years passed, Kirk often reflected on that fateful night in Hong Kong. He realized that the brief encounter had shaped not just a hit song, but also his understanding of creativity and connection. It inspired him to keep seeking inspiration in every corner of the world, to remain open to the magic that could occur in the simplest moments. In the end, “Taste It” wasn’t just a song about enjoying life; it was a powerful reminder that when we embrace our passions and share our hearts with others, we can create something truly extraordinary.