INXS – New Sensation

About the song

Released in 1987 as the third single from their breakthrough album Kick, “New Sensation” is a high-energy anthem that captures INXS at the peak of their powers. Fueled by infectious grooves, sharp production, and the magnetic presence of frontman Michael Hutchence, the track is a celebration of living in the moment — bold, confident, and unapologetically euphoric.

Written by Andrew Farriss (music) and Michael Hutchence (lyrics), “New Sensation” perfectly embodies the slick, dance-infused rock sound that defined INXS’s global rise in the late ‘80s. It became one of their biggest international hits, marking them as a band that could bridge rock swagger with pop accessibility and funk rhythms.

The sound and style:

“New Sensation” bursts out of the gate with a funky, choppy guitar riff, upbeat drums, and a horn-accented rhythm that practically dares you to dance. The production — tight and polished — reflects the late-‘80s sonic sheen but with a gritty undertone that keeps it rooted in rock.

The track features:

• Infectious guitar work by Tim Farriss and distinctive saxophone licks

• A rhythm section that grooves, not just rocks — thanks to bassist Garry Gary Beers and drummer Jon Farriss

• Michael Hutchence’s charismatic vocals, radiating confidence and cool

• A hook-laden chorus that is both immediate and timeless

There’s a blend of funk, rock, and pop in the DNA of the song that few bands executed as seamlessly as INXS did during this era.

Lyrical themes and tone:

Lyrically, “New Sensation” is all about savoring the present — grabbing life with both hands and embracing the thrill of it all. It’s not introspective or melancholic; it’s electric, upbeat, and alive.

“Live baby live, now that the day is over / I got a new sensation, in perfect moments…”

The song celebrates:

• Freedom and spontaneity

• The intoxicating rush of new experiences

• A mindset of living without hesitation

There’s something timeless about this message — it’s not tied to a particular event or emotion, just that universal feeling of being invincible in the now.

Legacy and impact:

“New Sensation” was a major hit:

• Reached No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the U.S.

• Helped cement Kick as a multi-platinum success

• Became a concert staple for the band, known for its high-energy live performance

It also marked INXS as a leading force in international rock, able to stand alongside contemporaries like U2, The Cure, and Duran Duran while maintaining their own distinct blend of style and substance.

Beyond its commercial success, the track helped influence a generation of artists interested in genre-crossing pop-rock — from funk-rock acts in the ‘90s to the dance-rock revival of the 2000s.

Final thoughts:

“New Sensation” is more than just a catchy hit — it’s a snapshot of INXS at full throttle, celebrating life with swagger, rhythm, and unapologetic joy. In a world often weighed down by complexity, this song cuts through like a bolt of pure, kinetic energy.

Michael Hutchence’s voice, full of seductive charm and commanding presence, invites you to live now — not later. And with that irresistible beat behind him, you’d be hard-pressed not to follow.

Video

Lyrics

“New Sensation”

Live, baby, live
Now that the day is over
I got a new sensation
In perfect moments
That’s impossible to refuse

Sleep, baby, sleep
Now that the night is over
And the sun comes
Like a god into our room
All perfect light and promises

Got a hold on you
A new sensation, a new sensation
Right now, it’s gonna take you over
A new sensation, a new sensation

Dream, baby, dream
Of all that’s come and going
And you will find out in the end
There really is
There really is no difference

Hah…
Cry, baby, cry
When you got to get it out
I’ll be your shoulder
You can tell me all
Don’t keep it in ya

Well, that’s the reason why I’m here
Hey, hey
Are you ready for (a new sensation, a new sensation)
Right now?
Gonna take you over (a new sensation, a new sensation)
Trumpet!
(New sensation, new sensation)
(A new sensation)

Hate, baby, hate
When there’s nothing left for you
You’re only human, what can you do?
It’ll soon be over
Don’t let your pain take over you

Love, baby, love
It’s written all over your face
There’s nothing better we could do
Than live forever
Well, that’s all we’ve got to do

Hey now, I’m gonna take you over (a new sensation, new sensation)
Right now
Got a hold on you
A new sensation, new sensation
A new sensation, a new sensation
A new sensation