“Don’t Change” is a rock anthem by INXS, released in October 1982 as the second single from their third studio album, Shabooh Shoobah. It is widely regarded as the band’s first international single and a pivotal track that marked their transition from local Australian pub rockers to global contenders.
Songwriting and Production
- Creators: The song was written by lead singer Michael Hutchence (lyrics) and keyboardist Andrew Farriss (music), though officially credited to all six band members.
- Inspiration: Farriss described the theme as a reflection on impermanence: “Everything changes, or does it? Nothing lasts forever and yet most of us at some point in our lives want it to.” The lyrics urge listeners to remain authentic despite external pressures.
- Recording: Produced by Mark Opitz at Rhinoceros Studios in Sydney, the track blends new wave rock with atmospheric synthesizers, featuring Hutchence’s emotive vocals layered with harmonies from Kirk Pengilly.
Commercial Performance and Legacy
- Chart Success: The song peaked at number 18 on the Australian Singles Chart, number 80 on the US Billboard Hot 100, and number 17 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock chart.
- Music Video: Directed by Scott Hicks, the video was filmed in an airport hangar in Adelaide after rain disrupted plans for an outdoor runway shoot.
- Cultural Impact: “Don’t Change” became INXS’s eternal anthem, traditionally closing their live sets for decades. It was notably performed as the final song by INXS before their disbandment in 2012 and was covered by artists such as Bruce Springsteen, Limp Bizkit, and Goo Goo Dolls.
INXS: Don’t Change (Live Aid 1985):
[Verse 1]
I’m standing here on the ground
The sky above won’t fall down
See no evil in all directions
Resolution of happiness
Things have been dark for too long
[Chorus]
Don’t change for you
Don’t change a thing for me
Don’t change for you
Don’t change a thing for me
[Verse 2]
I found a love I had lost
It was gone for too long
Hear no evil in all directions (Directions)
Execution of bitterness
Message received loud and clear
[Chorus]
Don’t change for you
Don’t change a thing for me
Don’t change for you
Don’t change a thing for me
[Verse 3]
I’m standing here on the ground
The sky above won’t fall down
See no evil in all directions
Resolution of happiness
Things have been dark for too long
[Chorus]
Don’t change for you
Don’t change a thing for me
Don’t change for you
Don’t change a thing for me
Don’t change for you
Don’t change a thing for me
[Outro]
Don’t change
Don’t change
