“Island in the Sun” is a song by the rock band Weezer. It is the second single from the band’s third album Weezer, released in July 16, 2001. “Island in the Sun” was not originally planned to be on the album, but producer Ric Ocasek fought for its inclusion. It was a successful radio single and perhaps the band’s biggest hit outside of the United States, reaching No. 31 in the UK and No. 17 in France. In January 2002, the Australian Triple J Hottest 100 ranked the song 7 in its 2001 countdown. “Island in the Sun” is also the most-licensed track in the Weezer catalog.
In late 2001, the band reworked the song’s solo for their live show. In 2005, lead singer Rivers Cuomo would often open the band’s encore by playing “Island in the Sun” alone on an acoustic guitar from the rear of the venue.
There are two different videos for “Island in the Sun“.
Version 1: Mexican wedding
This video was directed by Marcos Siega. It shows Weezer playing the song at a Mexican couple’s wedding reception, and features all four band members. The groom in the video is played by actor/singer Tony Garcia.
Version 2: Animals
This video was directed by Spike Jonze. It features Weezer playing with various wild animals on a hill. Only Brian Bell, Rivers Cuomo, and Pat Wilson appear in this video, as bassist Mikey Welsh had left the band shortly before shooting.
Tracklist:
- Island in the Sun
- Oh, Lisa
- Always
- Hash Pipe (Jimmy Pop Remix)
- Island in the Sun” (CD-ROM video)
Weezer
Rivers Cuomo: vocals, guitar, keyboards
Patrick Wilson: drums, percussion
Brian Bell: guitar, backing vocals, synthesizer
Mikey Welsh: bass, backing vocals
