Jimmy Barnes and Kate Ceberano Join Industry-Wide Tributes to INXS Honour

Australian legends Jimmy Barnes and Kate Ceberano are among several artists who have paid tribute to INXS after news of their Ted Albert Award recognition.

The globally influential band will receive award at the 2026 APRA Music Awards ceremony, taking over Sydney’s Hordern Pavilion on Wednesday, April 29th. One of Australia’s highest music industry honours, it is presented annually to individuals or groups making a lasting impact on the local music scene.

Recognising lifetime contributions, decided by APRA’s Board Directors, previous recipients have included Kylie Minogue, The Wiggles, AC/DC, Slim Dustry, Paul Kelly, Cold Chisel, Midnight Oil, and more.

Speaking with Rolling Stone AU/NZ, Barnes congratulated INXS on the award, describing their service to Australian music as "fantastic".

He said: "You guys, you absolutely took it to the world, you rocked it, you deserve this award so much."

He also took a moment to honour the late Michael Hutchence. "My only regret about you getting this award is that Michael’s not there with you to receive it, so my love goes to all of you and especially up to you Michael," Barnes said.

Ceberano reflected on her earliest memories of INXS, describing them as her "most formulative".

"When I first met them I was just a teenager and I was in love with each and every one of them for different reasons I think and they sort of brought music into my body on a cellular level," she explained. "You just kind of dreamt of like losing your brain and making out and kissing and growing up and doing all these things."

Other artists including Something for Kate's Paul Dempsey, Adam Hyde (Keli Holiday), Vanessa Amorosi, Eskimo Joe's Kav Temperley, and producer Konstantin Kersting also spoke with Rolling Stone AU/NZ about the honour and INXS’ importance to Australian music - see here for the full story.