INXS have found their new singer. The band, as previously reported, have been searching for a replacement for late frontman Michael Hutchence via the medium of a TV reality show. Canadian Jason Dean Fortune, known as JD Fortune, beat two other contenders, estate agent Marty Casey and 'We Will Rock You' star Mig Ayesa, in a televised final in Los Angeles on Tuesday night. The conclusion follows a worldwide search, with INXS holding auditions in six continents.
Fortune said: "It's an understatement to say this is a dream come true. 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 band have, of course, not been idle since Hutchence's death back in 1997; they have continued to perform with a variety of singers, but have not recorded any more albums since the loss of their frontman. They insist that the new singer is not a direct replacement for Hutchence, but that he has a lot to offer the group: Guitarist Tim Farriss said: "J D has a slightly dangerous edge and will bring a sense of spontaneity to our live show. 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."