When Inxs Were Booed Off Stage While Opening For Queen — And What Happened Next

April 1, 2025

The night was electric as the vast crowd gathered at the stadium, eager to see the legendary Queen perform. It was 1984, and excitement buzzed in the air. Fans were decked out in their best rock ‘n’ roll gear, ready to sing along to hits like “Bohemian Rhapsody” and “We Will Rock You.” But before Queen would take the stage, another band was set to open the show: the Australian rock group INXS. They were relatively new on the scene and had just released their album, “The Swing.” The band members were thrilled and nervous, hoping to win over the audience with their infectious energy and catchy tunes.

As INXS stepped onto the stage, lights flashing and music pounding, things began to take an unexpected turn. The fans, loyal to Queen and feeling impatient, started to boo. It wasn’t just a few scattered voices; it was a wave of disapproval crashing over the band. The members of INXS looked at each other, their hearts sinking. They played their hearts out, pouring everything they had into their performance, but the jeers grew louder. Singing their popular song “Need You Tonight,” they watched as some audience members turned their backs, showing their disdain. The feeling of rejection hit hard, and before long, they were ushered off stage, the sound of booing echoing in their ears.

Leaving the stage, the feelings of disappointment and embarrassment hung heavy in the air. Lead singer Michael Hutchence felt a mix of anger and sadness. How could the crowd not see the passion and talent they brought to the stage? But instead of letting the experience crush their spirits, the band decided to use this setback as fuel. They gathered together backstage, reminding one another of the love they had for music and their goal to connect with fans. Each member refused to let that night define them. They vowed to come back stronger, determined to win over listeners, one show at a time.

With renewed determination, INXS continued to tour and hone their craft. They played small venues, intimate clubs, and festival stages, gradually building a loyal fanbase. It was during these performances that they began to shine, making each audience feel like they were part of something special. Over the next few years, their hard work paid off, and they produced hits that climbed the charts, like “New Sensation” and “Mystify.” The band’s resilience turned their initial defeat into a powerful story of growth and perseverance.

Eventually, after years of dedication, INXS landed their own headline tours, and the world began to recognize their talent. They were no longer the band that had been booed off stage; they had become rock icons in their own right. The experience taught them valuable lessons about resilience and the importance of believing in oneself, even when faced with rejection. Looking back, Hutchence often recalled that night in 1984 as a pivotal moment in their journey. It became a reminder that every setback could lead to a comeback if you had the passion and the courage to rise above it.

The story of INXS serves as an inspiring reminder that not all journeys to success are smooth. Sometimes, it takes a hard hit to help us realize our true potential. That night, when the boos echoed through the stadium, it was a defining moment that would ultimately shape their career and solidify their place in music history. INXS proved that with resilience, determination, and a love for music, it is possible to turn adversity into opportunity and to find one’s voice, even when it feels like the world is against you.