The Session Musician Who Helped Transform Inxs’S Sound On “Welcome To Wherever You Are”

April 2, 2025

In the summer of 1992, the air buzzed with excitement in a small studio in Sydney, Australia. The band INXS, known for their catchy tunes and electrifying performances, was setting out to create their next album, “Welcome to Wherever You Are.” But this time, they were determined to stretch their sound beyond anything they had done before. That’s when they brought in a session musician named Jon Farriss, who played the keyboard with a style that would soon change everything. Jon was nervous, but he was also thrilled to be a part of this project, knowing this could be a defining moment in his career.

As the recording sessions started, Jon felt the energy in the room. The band was ready to experiment with new textures and rhythms, and Jon’s unique talent would help them explore uncharted territory. He poured his heart into every note he played, blending his classical training with the rock vibe that made INXS a household name. Each day was filled with long hours, creative struggles, and bursts of inspiration. Jon pushed himself, often staying late to perfect the sounds they were crafting together. It wasn’t just about playing notes; it was about capturing emotions and translating them into music that resonated with audiences around the world.

One day, while working on a track called “Heaven Sent,” Jon had an idea that would change the course of the album. He envisioned a haunting, melodic line that would accompany the powerful lyrics. As he played around with the tune, the band listened intently, and soon they were all hooked. This new sound brought a fresh layer to the song, transforming it into something deeply moving. It was in that moment that Jon realized how much influence a single idea could have, not just on a song, but on the entire direction of the band’s music. His passion became their passion, and together, they were not just making an album; they were telling a story of resilience and hope.

As the days turned into weeks, “Welcome to Wherever You Are” started to take shape. The album featured a variety of styles, from rock to pop to soulful ballads, all woven together by the innovative keyboard melodies that Jon had helped create. It was a bold departure from their previous work, but when it hit the shelves, it was met with critical acclaim. People could feel the heart in every track, and the album soon became a commercial success. Jon’s contribution hadn’t just added depth to INXS’s sound; it had given him a sense of belonging in the music world, one that he had always longed for.

With the success of the album came new opportunities for Jon. He found himself in high demand as a session musician, collaborating with other artists and working on diverse projects. His experience with INXS had given him confidence and recognition, but more importantly, it ignited a fire inside him. He understood that music was not just about fame and financial success; it was about connection, creativity, and the power to evoke emotion. Jon became a beacon of inspiration for aspiring musicians everywhere, proving that determination and passion could pave the way for remarkable opportunities.

Years later, as he looked back on that summer of creativity, Jon realized that the journey had shaped not only his career, but also his understanding of what it meant to be an artist. He learned that collaborating with others—sharing ideas, dreams, and fears—could lead to beautiful results. While “Welcome to Wherever You Are” was more than just an album; it was a reminder that music has the power to change lives, both for those who create it and those who listen. Jon continued to play and create, fueled by the knowledge that every note had the potential to inspire and transform, just as it had done for him and INXS.