INXS Quits Touring After 35 Years

After 35 years, INXS is calling it quits. The Australian band announced this week that they were no longer a touring band.

The news came as a bit of a shock to fans of the 80s group who were unaware that INXS was still touring. The band had a series of hits during the 80s and 90s but INXS fell from the spotlight after the death of the band’s lead singer, Michael Hutchence, in 1998.

The group didn’t perform for more than a year after Hutchence’ death but eventually reformed with various singers stepping behind the mic. The group also released two albums after Hutcence’ death but were never able to find the popularity they had in the 90s.

INXS members Tim, Andrew and Jon Farriss, Kirk Pengilly and Garry Beers released a statement saying:

“We understand that this must come as a blow to everybody, but all things must eventually come to an end. We have been performing as a band for 35 years, it’s time to step away from the touring arena. Our music will of course live on and we will always be a part of that.”

According to Reuters, INXS sold more than 30 million albums during their career. Ten million of those album sales came from the band’s 1987 album Kick.

The band told Rolling Stone:

“We would like to express our heartfelt thanks to all the friends and family that have supported us throughout our extensive career. Our lives have been enriched by having you all as a part of the journey.”

Were you a fan of INXS? Are you surprised that they quit touring? Did you know that they were still touring?

INXS ….. THE TOURING ENDS ….. THE MUSIC LIVES ON inxs.com/inxs2012/

— INXS (@INXS) November 13, 2012