INXS was one of the biggest bands of the late ’80s and ’90s, but the band’s career was severely affected by the death of their legendary lead singer, Michael Hutchence. However, fans of the band and Hutchence would be excited to know that they’ll be able to hear Hutchence sing once more in an unreleased solo song.
Hutchence had many solo projects in his career, and this particular song, “Friction,” plus two remixes, will be available to fans Sept. 1 through PledgeMusic. PledgeMusic is also selling a commemorative T-shirt designed by fashion designer Astrella, the daughter of Donovan, through her Next Musical T’s Design contest. The contest allows for fans to vote on five different designs and the winning one will be made into a T-shirt for sale exclusively on PledgeMusic. Unreleased photos, 10 in total, will also be released.
A little background on Hutchence’s “Friction”: The song came from a 1995 recording session while he was creating a solo album with music producers Danny Saber (who has worked with the Rolling Stones, Marilyn Manson, Ozzy Osbourne, Korn, David Bowie and U2) and Andy Gill (the Red Hot Chili Peppers, The Futerheads, Gang of Four, The Jesus Lizard, The Stranglers). Saber will also contribute to this release of “Friction” in the form of providing video breakdowns of the track’s lyrics.
“Michael was always looking to reinvent the wheel as an artist,” said Saber. “Delivering music and fashion together through Astrella and the PledgeMusic platform is precisely the type of ground-breaking initiative he would have been proud to be a part of. This project honors the intimate connect between artist and fan, which Michael cherished.”
Jayce Varde, the co-founder and head of Global Campaign Operations at PledgeMusic, also said how exciting it is to be part of INXS history. “As a huge INXS fan, it is an honor to be involved with this Michael Hutchence project. The combined efforts of Astrella and Danny Saber have created a truly unique marriage of fashion and music, while honoring Michael’s iconic status and legacy. The blessing and cooperation of the Hutchence estate is proof that Michael himself would have loved this project.”
To learn more about “Friction,” check out PledgeMusic.com.