Beautiful Girl

The song 'Beautiful Girl' by INXS paints a vivid picture of a young woman in distress, seeking solace in the anonymity of the city's neon lights. The lyrics tell the story of Nicky, a girl who is running away from a 'bad home' and finds herself amidst the urban landscape, vulnerable and seeking comfort. The repeated plea 'Stay with me' suggests a deep longing for connection and protection in a world that feels unsafe and unpredictable.

The use of neon lights as a recurring image in the song evokes the harsh and often impersonal glow of city life, under which many personal tragedies and stories unfold unseen. The neon lights serve as a metaphor for the allure and danger of the city, a place where people can both lose themselves and be lost to others. Nicky's character is emblematic of the many who seek refuge in the city, only to find themselves facing new challenges and fears.

INXS, known for their rock and new wave influences, often explored themes of personal struggle and emotional turmoil in their music. 'Beautiful Girl' is no exception, with its haunting melody and empathetic lyrics that offer a snapshot of a moment in Nicky's life. The song's narrative doesn't provide a resolution, leaving listeners to ponder Nicky's fate and reflect on the broader issues of youth in crisis and the search for safety and belonging.