The Day Inxs Played To An Audience Of Only 14 People — And Still Went All Out

April 2, 2025

It was a chilly evening in early 1984 when the legendary Australian band INXS was set to perform at a small, dimly lit club in Sydney. With their hit single “Just Keep Walking” still gaining traction on the radio, excitement buzzed around the band. But as the clock ticked closer to showtime, their hearts sank when they looked out into the audience. There were only 14 people seated in the tiny venue, each one seemingly unbothered by the lack of a crowd. Despite the disappointing turnout, the band made a bold decision. They would give those 14 fans a performance they’d never forget.

As the lights dimmed and the first chords of their opening song rang out, the atmosphere transformed. Michael Hutchence, the charismatic lead singer, poured every ounce of his energy into the performance, his deep voice soaring through the air. The music filled the room, and the small crowd gradually responded, bobbing their heads and swaying to the beat. Each band member—Kirk Pengilly on guitar, Andrew Farriss on keyboards, and Garry Gary Beers on bass—played as if they were in front of thousands. It was mesmerizing to watch them transform such a seemingly dismal situation into an electrifying experience.

The intimacy of the moment allowed for spontaneous interactions and genuine connections. Michael engaged with the audience, cracking jokes and sharing stories about the songs. It was as if he could hear the heartbeat of the small crowd, and he reveled in it. One fan later recalled how he felt directly involved in the performance, as if the band was playing just for him. The concert turned into a celebration of music, passion, and resilience. Even with only 14 people, the band showed that quality mattered more than quantity.

After the show, the small crowd erupted in cheers and applause that echoed throughout the club. Although there were only a handful of them, the fans felt like they had witnessed something extraordinary. This heartwarming performance not only strengthened the bond between the band and their audience but also ignited a fire within INXS. They knew that their music had the power to connect with people, no matter the size of the crowd. That single night would remind them that being true to their passion was more important than the number of tickets sold.

As time went on, INXS would go on to achieve massive success, topping charts and filling stadiums around the world. Yet, they often reflected on that evening when there were only 14 devoted fans in front of them. It became a crucial moment in their journey, teaching them resilience in the face of disappointment and the joy of performing. The experience served as a reminder that each performance is a chance to create lasting memories, no matter how big or small the audience.

Years later, when they played to sold-out crowds, the band carried the spirit of that intimate night in their hearts. They knew that no performance was too small and that every fan deserved the same passion, whether there were 14 or 14,000 people in the audience. INXS became an inspiring tale of dedication, proving that when you believe in your music and give it everything you have, you can touch lives in ways you might never fully understand.