Written by: Fatima Ahmed

Garry Gary Beers: The Unstoppable Bassist of INXS

Garry Gary Beers, born Garry William Beers on June 22, 1957, is an Australian musician and the iconic bass guitarist for the legendary rock group INXS. With a career spanning over four decades, Beers has left an indelible mark on the music industry with his distinctive bass lines and exceptional talent.

A childhood passion for music

Beers grew up in the Sydney suburb of Manly, where he developed a passion for music from an early age. His parents, William and Lola Beers, encouraged his love for music, leading him to form his first band, Legolas Elvin Warrior, in 1975 with school mates Bill Hucker and Glen Fender.

The formation of INXS

In 1977, Beers met Andrew Farriss, and together they formed the Farriss Brothers, which would later evolve into INXS in 1979. The band's original lineup included Beers on bass guitar and double bass, Andrew Farriss on keyboards and guitar, Jon Farriss on drums and keyboards, Tim Farriss on lead guitar, Michael Hutchence on lead vocals, and Kirk Pengilly on guitar, saxophone, and backing vocals.

A era of success with INXS

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, INXS achieved immense success with hits like "Listen Like Thieves," "Don't Change," and "Perfect Strangers," which Beers co-wrote with Michael Hutchence. The band's unique blend of rock, funk, and new wave captivated audiences worldwide, cementing their status as one of the most iconic bands of the era.

Side projects and collaborations

In 1989, Beers took a brief hiatus from INXS to join the band Absent Friends as a bass guitarist. During this period, he co-wrote the hit single "I Don't Want to Be with Nobody but You," which reached No. 4 on the charts. Beers has also collaborated with other artists, including Scott Weiland of Stone Temple Pilots, with whom he co-wrote the song "Tangle with Your Mind" for Weiland's solo album "Happy in Gal."

Post-INXS and solo endeavors

After INXS disbanded in the late 1990s, Beers continued to focus on songwriting, eventually releasing the album "Original Sin" in 2010. Since 2008, he has been based in Los Angeles, where he continues to write and produce music.

A legacy of musical innovation

Garry Gary Beers' contributions to the music industry extend beyond his work with INXS. He has been an innovator in the field of bass playing, experimenting with various techniques and pushing the boundaries of what is possible on the instrument. His influence can be heard in the work of countless other musicians, and his legacy continues to inspire new generations of music lovers.

Trivia and fun facts

• Beers is also a skilled guitarist, keyboardist, and ukulele player.
• He is adept at computer programming for songwriting and music production.
• Beers' musical inspirations include John Paul Jones of Led Zeppelin, James Jamerson, and Paul McCartney.

Awards and recognitions

Garry Gary Beers has received numerous awards and accolades for his work with INXS, including multiple ARIA Awards and a MTV Video Music Award. His contributions to the music industry have been recognized with a place in the Australian Music Hall of Fame.

As a testament to his enduring talent and influence, Garry Gary Beers remains an icon in the world of rock music, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire and captivate audiences for years to come.