Beyond the Unspoken Truth | What You Need | INXS

"What You Need" is a song by Australian rock band INXS, released in 1985 as part of their third studio album, "Listen Like Thieves". The track features the distinctive vocals of lead singer Michael Hutchence and has become one of the band's most popular and enduring songs.

The lyrics of "What You Need" are somewhat enigmatic, leaving listeners to interpret the meaning behind the song's cryptic words. At its core, the song appears to be about a person who is searching for something or someone that they can't quite put their finger on. The opening lines, "You're gonna get what you need / If you keep on telling me", suggest that the protagonist is seeking guidance or validation from an external source.

Throughout the song, Hutchence's lyrics are filled with metaphors and allusions that add to the sense of mystery. Lines like "I'm a man of many words" and "You're a woman of a thousand faces" imply a deep emotional complexity and introspection. It's possible to read the song as an exploration of the search for authenticity or self-discovery, with the lyrics serving as a kind of inner monologue.

Musically, "What You Need" is characterized by its driving rhythm section, courtesy of bassist Garry Gary Beers and drummer Jon Farrar. The guitar work, handled by Tim Farriss, adds a sense of tension and release to the song's dynamic arrangement. The result is a track that is both catchy and thought-provoking, with a memorable chorus and a sense of emotional resonance.

In many ways, "What You Need" represents a peak in INXS's early-80s sound, blending elements of post-punk, new wave, and rock to create something uniquely their own. The song has become a fan favorite and a staple of the band's live shows, with its themes of searching and longing continuing to resonate with listeners today.