INXS – Never Tear Us Apart

The music was written by keyboardist Andrew Farriss, vocalist Michael Hutchence wrote the lyrics. “Never Tear Us Apart” is a ballad, layered with synthesizers and containing dramatic pauses before the instrumental breaks. Kirk Pengilly lends a saxophone solo near the end. The song was composed on piano as a bluesy number in the style of Fats Domino. Producer Chris Thomas suggested a synth-based arrangement instead.

The video for the song, featuring an extended intro, was filmed in various locations in Prague along with “Guns in the Sky” and “New Sensation”, all directed by Richard Lowenstein.

The single reached #24 in the UK, and stayed on the charts for seven weeks. In the U.S., it reached #7 on the Billboard Hot 100. The single was released in 8 August 1988 with “Different World” (7″ mix)”Guns in the Sky” (Kick Ass Remix)

After his death in 1997, Michael Hutchence’s coffin was carried out of St Andrews Cathedral by the remaining members of INXS and younger brother Rhett as “Never Tear Us Apart” was played in the background.

INXS – Never Tear Us Apart – Lyrics