The Inspiration Inxs Drew From Watching James Brown Perform Live In Melbourne

April 2, 2025

The night was electric, filled with the buzzing energy of thousands of fans packed into Melbourne’s Huntly Street. INXS, a band whose name was still whispered with budding ambition, found themselves standing backstage, hearts racing with anticipation. They had come to see the legendary James Brown, the Godfather of Soul, perform live. As the memories of that moment flooded back, the band members could hardly contain their excitement. They all knew that this night would change everything for them.

When James Brown stepped onto the stage, the crowd erupted in a wave of cheers that shook the venue. His presence was undeniable, a powerhouse of movement and sound. The moment he started to perform, it felt as if the entire world had melted away, focusing solely on the rhythm and passion he brought to each note. The way he danced, the way he commanded the stage with his charisma, ignited a spark within the young musicians. They watched, wide-eyed, as he delivered one of the most mesmerizing performances they had ever seen. The energy in the room was palpable; it was like a living thing that vibrated from the stage, wrapping around every soul in the audience.

As they watched James Brown shift from one exhilarating song to another, the members of INXS felt a profound sense of inspiration wash over them. They were captivated not just by his voice but by his entire being. He didn’t just sing; he told a story with every move, engaging the audience as if they were part of an unforgettable journey. The raw emotion he poured into the performance showed them what true artistry looked like. That night, they vowed to bring that same passion and intensity to their music. They realized that it wasn’t just about being heard; it was about connecting deeply with the audience.

After the show, each member of INXS left with a renewed sense of purpose. They spent hours discussing how they could channel the energy they had witnessed into their own performances. James Brown’s relentless spirit taught them the importance of resilience and authenticity in their artistry. He had faced enormous challenges throughout his career, from personal struggles to the racial barriers that threatened to overshadow his talent. Yet, he refused to let those obstacles define him. Instead, he became a beacon of hope, showing what it truly meant to overcome and thrive despite adversity.

With their hearts full of inspiration, INXS poured their newfound energy into writing and performing. They infused their music with the soul and rhythm they had experienced that night, creating a unique sound that would eventually captivate audiences worldwide. The essence of James Brown lingered in their songs, a constant reminder to embrace vulnerability and to always connect with their audience on a deeper level.

Years later, as INXS climbed the charts with hits that resonated globally, they often reflected on that life-changing night. It wasn’t just a concert; it was a pivotal moment that taught them about the power of music and the importance of passion. Each concert they performed was a vivid homage to the legacy of James Brown, a celebration of overcoming struggles through creativity and inspiration. Through their journey, they reminded the world that music has the ability to heal, unite, and inspire, just as it had for them that unforgettable night in Melbourne.