INXS Drummer Role and Band History
INXS formed in 1977 in Sydney, Australia, with drummer Jon Farriss as a founding member alongside brothers Andrew and Tim Farriss, Michael Hutchence, Kirk Pengilly, and Garry Gary Beers. The band became one of the highest-selling Australian acts of all time, with global sales estimated above 75 million records. Jon Farriss served as the primary drummer and co-producer on most INXS studio albums through the band's peak commercial period in the late 1980s and early 1990s. The band's lineup stabilized with Farriss on drums and percussion until the death of Michael Hutchence in November 1997, after which INXS continued with guest vocalists and later new members while maintaining the original instrumental core. Forbes
The INXS discography includes 12 studio albums, with Kick (1987) and X (1990) representing the highest-charting releases on the Billboard 200, reaching positions 3 and 5 respectively. Jon Farriss co-wrote many of the band's hits, including "Need You Tonight," "Never Tear Us Apart," and "Suicide Blonde," which received extensive radio play and MTV rotation worldwide. The band's total certified sales in the United States exceed 5 million units according to RIAA data, with additional multi-platinum certifications in Australia, the United Kingdom, and Canada. RIAA
Jon Farriss Net Worth and Financial Profile
Jon Farriss's net worth is estimated in the range of tens of millions of dollars, derived primarily from INXS royalties, touring revenue, and songwriting credits spanning multiple decades. The band's catalog generates ongoing income through streaming platforms, radio airplay, licensing for film and television, and sync fees for advertising. Farriss also earned income as a producer and songwriter for other artists, and from his role in the band's business management and publishing entities. Forbes
INXS royalties are administered through major publishing and rights management organizations, with the estate of Michael Hutchence and the remaining band members controlling the catalog and associated master recordings. The estate and surviving members have engaged in licensing deals, retrospective releases, and documentary projects that contribute to ongoing revenue streams. SEC EDGAR
Current Projects and Legacy
Jon Farriss has continued to work in music production and live performance, participating in INXS tribute tours and solo projects following the band's hiatus after Hutchence's death. He has produced records for other artists and remained active in the Australian music industry through studio work and mentoring roles. The INXS brand remains commercially active through catalog sales, streaming, and occasional live appearances by the remaining members and touring musicians. Forbes
The legacy of INXS and its drumming style has influenced subsequent generations of rock and pop drummers,