M. Hutchence; Lead Singer of Rock Band INXS

Michael Hutchence, the lead singer for the rock band INXS, was found dead today in a Sydney hotel, according to news reports.

Hutchence’s body was found in his room at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel shortly after midday, Australian Associated Press said. A television station reported that the rock star had hanged himself.

Police confirmed a death at the hotel but declined to say if it was Hutchence or what the cause of death was. Officers said they would not identify the body until relatives were informed.

The INXS front man was in Australia preparing for the band’s 20th anniversary tour.

The group was formed after Hutchence, 37, teamed up with Andrew and Tim Farris in the late 1970s. Early major hits included “Burn For You,” “I Send a Message” and “Don’t Change.”

INXS achieved international success in 1987 with the album “Kick,” which sold 9 million copies.

Hutchence was considered the focus of the band, with a style similar to those of Rolling Stones lead singer Mick Jagger and Jim Morrison of the Doors.

Record sales for the group had fallen off in recent years, and the band had not released an album for four years before coming out with “Elegantly Wasted” this year.