INXS - LISTEN LIKE THIEVES / THE ONE THING

LISTEN LIKE THIEVES 

Released: June 1986

Charted: UK: #46  US: #54 

"Listen Like Thieves" serves as the title track and fourth single from INXS's fifth album of the same name. The song was penned collectively by the band members: Michael Hutchence, Kirk Pengilly, Garry Gary Beers, Andrew Farriss, Tim Farriss, and Jon Farriss. The B-side to the single was "Different World," featured on the soundtrack for the film "Crocodile Dundee."

"Listen Like Thieves" carries a message urging listeners to be discerning about the information they consume. Michael Hutchence cautions against blindly believing everything presented by the media. He encourages a vigilant approach to discerning truth, emphasizing personal responsibility in understanding the complexities of news and politics.

Andrew Farriss reflected on the phrase "listen like thieves" and the deeper meaning behind the lyrics in a 2020 interview. He noted that Michael Hutchence crafted this unique string of words, which may evoke the style of a British poet from the 19th century but is not commonly used in modern language. Farriss highlighted the cleverness of incorporating this phrase into a song, suggesting that it taps into a timeless theme of societal struggle for autonomy and truth. He interpreted Hutchence's lyrics as addressing the importance of individuals taking control of their own destinies within the framework of government and media scrutiny. 

Was (Not Was) covered "Listen Like Thieves" and released it as a single in 1992 as part of their promotion for the album "Hello Dad ... I'm in Jail." The cover version achieved moderate success, reaching number 58 on the UK Singles Chart.

THE ONE THING

Released: July 1982

Charted: US: #30 

"The One Thing" was released as the lead single from their third 1982 studio album, "Shabooh Shoobah”. Penned by guitarist Andy Farriss and lead vocalist Michael Hutchence, the song explores the allure of a confident and desirable woman who attracts attention from many suitors. This track marked INXS's breakthrough in the United States, becoming their first song to gain traction in the country. This success laid the foundation for their burgeoning international career throughout the mid-1980s and beyond. 

"The One Thing" not only marked INXS's breakthrough in the United States but also coincided with their first tour of America, where they gained exposure to a broader audience. Initially opening for Adam and the Ants, then later supporting The Go-Go's, the band's dynamic performances helped generate buzz around the single. As their tour progressed, so did the popularity of "The One Thing." This momentum culminated in a memorable performance at the US Festival in California on May 28, 1983. 

The music video directed by Soren Jensen, showcased INXS members enjoying a lavish banquet alongside beautiful models, including Michael Hutchence's then-girlfriend Michele Bennett, interwoven with scenes of the band performing. At the time, MTV was known for its eclectic and unconventional content, and "The One Thing" fit right in with its quirky and attention-grabbing visuals. In hindsight, INXS bassist Tim Farriss reflected humorously on the video's creation, highlighting the absurdity of the process. Despite the unconventional approach, the video's exposure on MTV played a significant role in boosting the single's popularity, particularly in the United States.