The Hand Signals Inxs Used On Stage To Cue Unexpected Setlist Changes

April 1, 2025

The crowd roared with excitement, a sea of faces illuminated by the colorful lights of the stage. INXS was about to perform, and everyone knew that when the band stepped under those bright lights, something magical was about to happen. But little did most fans know, there was a secret language happening behind the scenes—hand signals that the band used to cue unexpected changes in their setlist. This was a thrilling game for both the musicians and the audience, a dance of spontaneity that kept everyone on their toes.

It was during a particularly electrifying concert in Sydney that the hand signals truly took center stage. As the band played through their set, lead singer Michael Hutchence felt an electric energy flowing from the crowd. He glanced at his bandmates and flashed a quick sign—a flick of his fingers that meant “let’s switch it up.” The rest of the band nodded, understanding the cue instantly. Suddenly, instead of the planned song, the opening notes of “Need You Tonight” blasted through the speakers, sending the audience into a frenzy. The thrill of unexpected moments like this defined INXS’s performances. Each time they switched songs, it felt like a journey that the fans and the band took together.

The hand signals were more than just a way to change songs; they represented the band’s connection with their audience. Every time Michael raised his hand in a specific way, it was like inviting the crowd into an exclusive club of spontaneity. Fans loved it; they felt like they were part of something unique and special. It gave the concerts an unpredictable edge that turned every performance into a one-of-a-kind experience. That night in Sydney became a legendary moment that fans would talk about for years, a reminder of how music can be both structured and wildly unpredictable at the same time.

However, the excitement of live performances was not without its challenges. There were moments when a cue didn’t go as planned, or when a fan’s energy didn’t mesh with a particular song choice. But Michael and the band learned to adapt, to embrace the unexpected. They understood that music is a living, breathing thing that evolves, and sometimes the best moments come from taking risks. The resilience they showed on stage helped them grow as artists and as friends. Each concert became a testament to their commitment to music and to each other.

As the years went by, these hand signals became a symbol of INXS’s journey through the music industry. They faced highs and lows—triumphs and struggles—but their passion for performing never wavered. The thrill of live music, combined with their unique approach to setlists, kept their fans coming back for more. The hand signals were a simple yet powerful reminder that the unexpected could lead to beautiful moments, and that every show was a new opportunity to connect with their audience.

Even after Michael tragically passed away in 1997, those hand signals remained etched in the hearts of fans and the remaining band members. They became legends, weaving a tale of joy, connection, and resilience that still inspires musicians today. INXS had not just created music; they had built a legacy of spontaneity and passion that reminded everyone that life, much like a concert, is best lived in the moment, where the unexpected can lead to the most unforgettable experiences.