Michael Hutchence (1969-1997) lead singer of the rock band INXS was widely recognised as a charismatic live performer. The group's first album INXS, was released in 1980. By 1988 INXS was said to be the most successful Australian band ever with sales of their sixth album, Kick around 7.5 million worldwide and a world rating of third most popular group. Their success continued with their 1991 albums Live Baby Live and X. Hutchence died in a room of the Ritz Carlton in Double Bay in November 1997.