INXS selects J.D. Fortune as new singer

J.D. Fortune's surname seems particularly appropriate this week, as INXS has named the Canadian singer to front the multi-platinum band.

"It's an understatement to say that this is a dream come true," Fortune said in a press release. "Growing up, INXS albums like 'Shabooh Shoobah,' 'Listen Like Thieves' and 'Kick' were a huge musical influence on me. I'd listen to their songs and wonder what it would be like to be in this band. That they've chosen me to be their new lead singer is just mind-blowing."

The new INXS will head straight into the studio with producer Guy Chambers (Robbie Williams) to begin work on their Epic Records debut, the appropriately named "Switch," which is scheduled to be released on Nov. 29. In January, INXS will embark on its first worldwide tour in eight years. Fans can sign up for info and fan-club pre-sale opportunities at the band's website.

Fortune's selection ends months of speculation that began with the airing of the reality TV series "Rock Star: INXS" on CBS. Competing in an "American Idol"-style format, Fortune eventually beat out other finalists Mig Ayesa and Marty Casey for the opportunity to join the band, whose original vocalist, the charismatic Michael Hutchence, died of an apparent suicide in 1997.

"J.D. has a slightly dangerous edge and will bring a sense of spontaneity to our live show," said INXS guitarist Tim Farriss in a press release. "In addition, he has both the star quality we were looking for and is an inspired lyricist. I think he'll grow with us on all levels. We're a complete band once again."

Fortune was a fan favorite throughout the airing of "Rock Star," but he really took over as the frontrunner near the conclusion of the series. Before the show's final taping, each of the three finalists went into the studio to record new tracks with INXS. Fortune's song "Pretty Vegas," which he penned with Farriss, was a hit with both the studio audience and television viewers.

Capitalizing on the song's success on TV, the band has released "Pretty Vegas" as the first radio single from "Switch." The song will also be available exclusively through iTunes for two weeks beginning October 4th.

"'Pretty Vegas' contains signature INXS sounds but sits somewhere between the (Sex) Pistols, Elvis and R&B," Farriss said. "Combined with J.D.'s vocal, there's an energy and passion to the song that makes it the perfect introduction to the new-look INXS."