INXS

Lyrics

[Intro]
Uh! Uhn! Ah ha hah hanh! Unh!

[Verse 1]
See the sound
It crashes in
All around
It gets in
Now take your hands
And raise them up
Into to the air
That's all around ya
Now bring them down
Like a clock at two
And shake your head
You know what to do
They want to put
Guns in the sky
Someone out there
Ain't gonna like it
But it could be good
Make us love each other
Have to realize
I own the future

[Chorus]
Hoh! Guns in the sky
Guns in the sky
Guns in the sky
Guns in the sky
[Bridge]
Guns in the sky
Child grows up to see
Guns in the sky
Used to be on TV

[Verse 2]
Want to change
Forgot the joke
It's great to see you
I'm running late
Da da da, love your hair
Da da da, lend me a ten
Da da da, I love your big house
Da da da, could you spare a dime?
Well, I'm sick of it
It's a load of shit
We could stop the world
And let off all the fools
And let them go live
With their guns in the sky

[Guitar solo]

[Chorus]
Guns in the sky
Guns in the sky
Guns in the sky
Guns in the sky
Guns in the sky
Guns in the sky
Guns in the skyEmbed

Are you a fan of '80s rock music? If so, you're surely familiar with the Australian band INXS and their timeless hits. Today, we're going to dive into one of their most politically charged songs, "Guns In The Sky." This track, released in 1987, stands out not only for its infectious sound but also for its thought-provoking lyrics that critique the Strategic Defense Initiative proposed by U.S. President Ronald Reagan in 1983.

The Strategic Defense Initiative (SDI), also known as "Star Wars," was an ambitious plan that aimed to shift the focus of defense strategy from offense to strategic defense. This shift was a departure from the Mutual Assured Destruction (MAD) doctrine that had dominated U.S. defense thinking during the Cold War. INXS seized this significant moment in history and channeled their frustration into a powerful musical statement.

Carrying a sense of urgency and defiance, "Guns In The Sky" begins with a punchy guitar riff that immediately grabs your attention. Michael Hutchence's charismatic vocals soar over the driving rhythm section, delivering the band's message with conviction. As the song progresses, layers of synthesizers and pulsating drum beats intensify the atmosphere, reflecting the tension and unease surrounding the SDI and its potential consequences.

With lyrics like "Rooms full of you / Are sinking fast" and "Words that scream for your submission," INXS paints a vivid picture of the growing fear and distrust of the government's involvement in defense initiatives. The band poignantly questions the priorities of those in power and whether their actions are truly in the best interest of the people.

The official music video for "Guns In The Sky" adds another layer of visual storytelling to the song's powerful message. Directed by Richard Lowenstein, the video features a blend of footage from protests and riots mixed with INXS' energetic performance. This combination further reinforces the band's stance against the SDI and calls for unity in the face of political oppression.

About Guns In The Sky

Released as the opening track on INXS' critically acclaimed album, "Kick," "Guns In The Sky" sets the tone for the rest of the record. The song not only showcases the band's musical prowess but also highlights their ability to tackle significant social and political issues within their music.

INXS' ability to address political themes with a catchy and accessible sound is one of the reasons why "Guns In The Sky" resonates with fans to this day. The band effortlessly merges their signature new wave sound with rock elements, creating a distinct sonic landscape that perfectly complements the intensity of their message.

While the Strategic Defense Initiative ultimately dissolved in 1993 without substantial progress, "Guns In The Sky" serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of questioning authority and holding governments accountable for their actions. It stands as a testament to the enduring power of music as a vehicle for social commentary and protest.

INXS' ability to fuse infectious melodies with thought-provoking lyrics is what sets them apart as one of the most influential rock bands of the '80s. "Guns In The Sky" is just one example of their ability to use their platform to address important societal issues without compromising on musicality or energy.

So, next time you find yourself in the mood for music that both rocks and challenges the status quo, turn up the volume and let INXS guide you through the thought-provoking and energetic journey that is "Guns In The Sky."

Note: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any other agency, organization, employer, or company.

• Release Date: October 19, 1987
• Artist: INXS