J.D. Fortune from N.S. reflects on 20 years since Rock Star: INXS
Nova Scotia’s J.D. Fortune, a proud country boy from Pictou County, vividly recalls the events that led him to his big break on the reality TV show Rock Star: INXS in 2005. This life-changing opportunity resulted in him becoming the lead singer for the iconic Australian band.
Before these defining moments, Fortune was living in Toronto in 2005 with his pug, Presley, and surviving in his car. It was during this time that he caught wind of the auditions for Rock Star, a show searching for the next frontman for INXS, a band left without a permanent singer since the passing of Michael Hutchence in 1997.
The audition process was rigorous, with thousands applying for the coveted spot. Fortune’s determination and belief in himself spurred him on, declaring to his canine companion his resolve to win the competition. His passion for music and performing has been a lifelong pursuit, with memories of gazing at an INXS album cover on his bedroom wall during his youth in Pictou County. This dream finally realized as he beat the odds and stood triumphant on the show.
In the lead-up to fame, Fortune’s journey was not free from trials. Hailing from Pictou County, he split his earlier years between there and Ontario, engaging in various job roles, including driving a tractor-trailer and briefly serving in the Canadian army. It was at this time that CBS labeled him as an Elvis impersonator, a classification Fortune debunked, likening his performances to Jamie Foxx imitating Ray Charles.
Rock Star: INXS brought to light Fortune’s undisputed talent, notably during an episode where contestants collaborated on a song; it was his solo efforts that stood out and eventually shaped the hit song “Pretty Vegas.” The pressures of the reality show atmosphere heightened his emotions, propelling him into the limelight and driving him to success.
After securing his place as the lead singer of INXS, Fortune embarked on a whirlwind of tours and studio sessions, the most notable being their album “Switch,” released in 2005. The hit single “Pretty Vegas” solidified his position as an integral part of the band. Despite the career highs, Fortune’s personal life took a toll, with the intense schedule leaving little room for personal time or reflection.
As the years progressed, Fortune continued to embody the spirit of INXS, performing in hundreds of shows worldwide until the band’s disbandment in 2012. Following this, Fortune returned to Nova Scotia, finding solace and reconnection within his roots and with his loved ones.
Reflecting on his journey, Fortune cherishes his time with INXS and the opportunities that came his way. His unwavering love for music drives him to keep creating, with new projects on the horizon and his heart still belting out the tunes that made his journey an unforgettable one.