Pretty Vegas
by INXS

Album: Switch (2005)
Charted: 37
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • This was the first single INXS released with their new singer, JD Fortune, who wrote the song during the INXS Rockstar reality show in 2005 as one of his tests when he competed to become the band's frontman. He used to work in Las Vegas as an Elvis impersonator, and based on his talks during the show, he doesn't have very fond memories of it. The song points out the grungy side of Vegas that tourists are too starry-eyed and drunk to notice. >>>
    Suggestion credit:
    Malakin - Eatontown, NJ
  • This was the first single from Switch, the first album INXS released after lead singer Michael Hutchence died in 1997. The reality show gave the band a new round of publicity and the song got some airplay, but INXS weren't able to regain their glory with JD Fortune out front. They toured sporadically and in 2011 replaced him with Ciaran Gribbin. Their last show was in 2012.

Comments: 9

  • Bobbilyn from Jacksonville, FlJD rocked in concert. Was never an INXS fan until my friend dragged me to the concert (I was a child in the 80s). Big fan now.
  • Carla from Auckland, New ZealandDidn't like JD on Rockstar. But am now a big fan. Definitely the best man won. Love this song!
  • Kc from Kansas City, MoI really didn't want JD to get the lead gig but i was happy this song made it as their hit single so it all evens out.
  • Mel from Hokitika, New ZealandI got to see INXS in concert a few weeks ago with JD as lead. They were excellent. JD certainly has a unique style but there were moments when if I shut my eyes I could hear Micheal singing. Fantastic!
  • Sara from Savannah, GaThis song is talking about the hard life in Vegas,
    that J.D. had to go through like with living in his car for so long. Until the show started.
    THAT IS WHAT THIS SONG MEANS!!
    ITS REAL MEANING FOLKS!!!
  • Sara from Savannah, GaI Watched the whole entire show. i think "yes" the best man "did" win this show. JD's voice
    is amazing. I feel like INXS will be more
    successful with JD as thier singer. I love this
    song!!
    INXS 4 EVER!!!
  • Olivia from KelownaI watched Rockstar:INXS, and while watching it, actually dispised JD. But, he's got a really amazing voice, so I'm really glad he was picked...
  • Shannan from St. Louis , MoI just bought the INXS album (JD Fortune) album last night. The album is great and although I never watched Rockstar - JD's voie is outstanding, so I think the best man DID win.
  • Jameson from Lexington, KyI didn't watch "INXS Rockstar" when it was on, so I don't know what kind of bias the show might have raised with INXS's fans. That said, JD's not bad. I was a fan of the band with Micheal Hutchence, and I'm still a fan. This did not disappoint me.
see more comments

Editor's Picks

Al Jourgensen of Ministry

Al Jourgensen of MinistrySongwriter Interviews

In the name of song explanation, Al talks about scoring heroin for William Burroughs, and that's not even the most shocking story in this one.

Steve Cropper (Booker T & the MG's, Blues Brothers)

Steve Cropper (Booker T & the MG's, Blues Brothers)Songwriter Interviews

Steve Cropper on the making of "In the Midnight Hour," the chicken-wire scene in The Blues Brothers, and his 2021 album, Fire It Up.

Weezer

WeezerFact or Fiction

Did Rivers Cuomo grow up on a commune? Why did they name their albums after colors? See how well you know your Weezer in this Fact or Fiction.

Is That Song Public Domain?

Is That Song Public Domain?Fact or Fiction

Are classic songs like "Over The Rainbow" and "Take Me Out to the Ballgame" in the public domain?

John Waite

John WaiteSongwriter Interviews

"Missing You" was a spontaneous outpouring of emotion triggered by a phone call. John tells that story and explains what MTV meant to his career.

Chris Squire of Yes

Chris Squire of YesSongwriter Interviews

One of the most dynamic bass player/songwriters of his time, Chris is the only member of Yes who has been with the band since they formed in 1968.