The First Time Inxs Saw Their Album In A Store — And Their Reaction

April 2, 2025

The sun was shining brightly on the summer afternoon of October 3, 1980, as the band INXS made their way into a local record store in Sydney, Australia. This was not just any ordinary day; for the five musicians—Kirk, Garry, Jon, Andrew, and the charismatic lead singer Michael Hutchence—it was a day they had been dreaming of for years. Their debut album, “INXS,” had finally been released, and the thought of seeing it on the shelves felt surreal. The band had poured their hearts, souls, and countless hours into creating this music, and now it was time for the world to hear it.

As they stepped through the door of the store, the scent of vinyl and fresh paper filled the air. Michael, with his wild hair and magnetic smile, led the group through the aisles, excitement bubbling inside. They laughed and joked, yet a sense of nervous anticipation hung in the air. Would people like their music? Would they find their album? Michael’s heart raced as they approached the section labeled “New Releases.” And there it was, tucked between other albums—a striking cover with a bold title that read “INXS.” Their faces lit up in disbelief.

The moment was electric. Andrew grabbed the album and held it up for all to see. “Look at it! It’s real!” he exclaimed, eyes wide with joy. They all surrounded him, reading the tracklist that they had painstakingly crafted, each song representing a piece of their journey. Garry and Kirk exchanged proud glances, their dreams finally taking shape. It wasn’t just an album; it was a testament to their hard work, determination, and the countless late nights spent rehearsing. They knew that this was just the beginning, but holding that album in their hands felt like they had already won.

As they stood there, taking in the reality of their achievement, a few customers began to notice them. Whispers started circulating through the store. “Is that INXS?” one girl asked her friend, pointing in astonishment. The band’s hearts swelled with excitement. Michael, always the showman, smiled and waved at the small crowd gathering. They felt the warmth of recognition starting to build; this was the moment they had worked so hard for. The mixture of pride and humility washed over them as they realized that their dream was turning into a reality before their very eyes.

That day marked a turning point in their lives. The excitement of seeing their album on store shelves ignited a fire within them—a relentless passion to keep creating and to share their music with the world. They felt inspired to perform more, to write deeper songs, and to connect with fans on a level they had only imagined. As the years went by, INXS would go on to become one of Australia’s most beloved rock bands, known for their infectious energy and unforgettable melodies. But it all started with that one incredible moment in a record store when they caught sight of their dreams laid out on a shelf.

As they walked away from the store, the sun setting in the golden sky, they realized that this was only the beginning. With each other by their side and an album in hand, they were ready to face whatever came next. They were not just a band; they were a family, bound together by their love for music and the ambition to share it with the world. That first glimpse of their album was more than just a milestone; it was a promise of everything they could achieve together.