NXS’s “Devil Inside” navigates the labyrinth of the human psyche, highlighting the tug-of-war between our primal instincts and higher ideals. Capturing our collective vulnerabilities, the song examines society’s expectations and the hidden shadows in us all. It’s a candid reflection on our dual nature and the universal struggles we face.
Explore the layers beneath the catchy beat of “Devil Inside”. This is more than just a foot-tapping number. Discover the profound depths of its lyrics and the messages the song has been subtly conveying all this while.
“Devil Inside” Lyrics Meaning
The song starts with imagery contrasting a woman “raised on leather” with “flesh on her mind” and a man “fed on nothing but full of pride.” These characters seem to embody societal stereotypes and expectations. The phrases like “words as weapons” and “sharper than knives” touch upon how communication can be manipulative, harmful, or deceitful.
The recurring refrain, “Devil inside,” is a powerful proclamation. It’s a universal assertion that every individual has a shadow side. Whether driven by desire, ambition, or anger, there’s a lurking darkness within everyone.
The line “Here come the world with the look in its eye” presents the world as an entity, perhaps a force pushing us towards materialism, superficiality, and away from genuine connections. The mention of “a place called hell” could be symbolic of the tumultuous feelings and moral dilemmas we experience.
As the song loops back to the woman, it emphasizes the cyclical nature of societal judgments and expectations. The repetition of “Devil inside” in the latter part reinforces the song’s central theme: irrespective of how we present ourselves, we’re all bound by the same human frailties and temptations.
The Story Behind “Devil Inside”
INXS, an iconic Australian rock band, was at a pivotal point in their career when they released “Devil Inside.” As part of their album “Kick,” which catapulted them into international superstardom, the song embodies the band’s signature blend of rock and funk with thought-provoking lyrics.
Michael Hutchence, the band’s charismatic frontman, was known for his introspective songwriting, often delving into personal and societal observations. “Devil Inside” mirrors this introspection. During this period, Hutchence was exploring the highs and lows of fame, grappling with the public’s perception versus his own self-awareness. The song can be seen as a reflection of the inner conflict he felt: the seduction of fame (the devil inside) versus the desire for authenticity and genuine human connection.
Additionally, society was undergoing significant shifts in the broader context of the 1980s. There was a growing awareness and acknowledgment of the darker aspects of human nature, especially in the realms of politics, celebrity culture, and personal relationships. In many ways, the song captures this zeitgeist, acting as a mirror to the dualities of the era.
In essence, “Devil Inside” is a testament to the complexities of human nature and the challenges of navigating a world filled with temptations and judgments. Through this song, INXS offers listeners a chance to reflect, relate, and realize that everyone, no matter how different they seem, grapples with the same inner demons.Top of Form