The Rare Demo Tape Inxs Mailed To A U.S. Label That Got Returned Unopened

April 2, 2025

In the early 1980s, before they were rock legends, the members of INXS were just a band of hopeful musicians from Sydney, Australia. With dreams of making it big, they poured their hearts and souls into creating music that blended rock, new wave, and funk. They wrote songs that spoke to their generation, and after countless gigs and rehearsals, they felt they had finally produced something special: a demo tape filled with their best tracks. It was a chance for the world to hear their passion, and they were certain it was their ticket to fame.

Excitement bubbled as the band prepared to send their demo tape to a well-known record label in the United States. They imagined receiving a call from the label, praising their work and offering them a record deal. With careful hands, they packaged the tape and sent it off, filled with hope and anticipation. Days turned into weeks as they waited, dreaming of the moment that would change their lives. But as the wait grew longer, doubt began to creep in. What if they weren’t good enough? What if their music wasn’t what the label was looking for?

Then, one fateful day, a letter arrived. But it was not the glorious news they had hoped for. The envelope bore the unmistakable stamp of the record label, and as they tore it open, their hearts sank. The letter simply stated that the demo had been returned—unopened. It felt like a punch in the gut. How could they have poured everything into their art only to be dismissed before even being listened to? For a moment, despair washed over them, and they questioned if they should even continue pursuing music.

But instead of giving in to their disappointment, the band rallied together. They realized that this was just one of many challenges they would face in their journey. Rather than letting this setback define them, they used it as fuel to stoke the fire of their passion. They took the rejection as a sign that they needed to work harder, to refine their sound, and to believe even more deeply in themselves. So they decided to hit the local music scene with a renewed vigor, performing at clubs and festivals, determined to make their mark.

Word began to spread about the electrifying performances of INXS, and slowly but surely, they garnered attention. Their music found its way into the hearts of fans, connecting with people in a way that transcended their earlier rejection. Finally, after years of persistence, they caught the ear of another label, which saw the potential that others had missed. INXS went on to become one of the most iconic bands of the 1980s and 1990s, with chart-topping hits like “Need You Tonight” and “New Sensation.”

Looking back, the band knew that the return of that demo tape was a pivotal moment in their journey. It taught them resilience and the importance of believing in their music, no matter the odds. Their story became a testament to the power of passion and perseverance, inspiring countless musicians to keep chasing their dreams, even when the world tells them no. INXS didn’t just find success; they created a legacy that would echo through the halls of rock history, proving that every setback can be a stepping stone to something greater.