About the song
The Police’s “Invisible Sun” is a powerful and thought-provoking track that showcases the band’s ability to blend meaningful content with innovative soundscapes. Released in 1981 as part of their fourth studio album, Ghost in the Machine, the song stands out for its poignant lyrics and distinctive musical style.
Written by Sting, the band’s lead vocalist and principal songwriter, “Invisible Sun” delves into themes of hope and despair amid political and social turmoil. The song’s lyrics evoke a sense of yearning for light and positivity in dark times, with the “invisible sun” serving as a metaphor for an elusive source of hope and solace. Sting’s evocative words and emotive vocal delivery add depth to the song’s reflective and somewhat somber tone.
Musically, “Invisible Sun” features a driving rhythm and a prominent organ melody, creating a sense of urgency and intensity. The song’s arrangement is characterized by its haunting atmosphere and layered instrumentation, which enhance its lyrical themes. The track’s combination of rock and new wave elements, along with its distinctive sound, makes it a memorable and impactful piece.
Upon its release, “Invisible Sun” achieved notable success. It reached number 2 on the UK Singles Chart, underscoring The Police’s continued prominence in the music scene. In the United States, the song also made a significant impact, peaking at number 37 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song’s success was further boosted by its compelling music video and the band’s engaging live performances.
“Invisible Sun” remains a significant part of The Police’s discography, illustrating Sting’s songwriting talent and the band’s ability to address profound themes through their music. Its enduring appeal and impact highlight the song’s importance in The Police’s legacy and its relevance to listeners across generations.
Video
Lyrics
One, two, three, four, five, six
Whoa-oh, oh, whoa-oh
Whoa-oh, oh, whoa-oh
Whoa-oh, oh, whoa-oh
Whoa-oh, oh, whoa-oh
I don’t want to spend the rest of my life
Looking at the barrel of an Armalite
I don’t want to spend the rest of my days
Keeping out of trouble like the soldiers say
I don’t want to spend my time in hell
Looking at the walls of a prison cell
I don’t ever want to play the part
Of a statistic on a government chart
There has to be an invisible sun
It gives its heat to everyone
There has to be an invisible sun
That gives us hope when the whole day’s done
It’s dark all day and it glows all night
Factory smoke and acetylene light
I face the day with my head caved in
Looking like something that the cat brought in
There has to be an invisible sun
It gives its heat to everyone
There has to be an invisible sun
That gives us hope when the whole day’s done
Whoa-oh, oh, whoa-oh
Whoa-oh, oh, whoa-oh
And they’re only going to change this place
By killing everybody in the human race
They would kill me for a cigarette
But I don’t even wanna die just yet
There has to be an invisible sun
It gives its heat to everyone
There has to be an invisible sun
That gives us hope when the whole day’s done
Whoa-oh, oh, whoa-oh
Whoa-oh, oh, whoa-oh
Whoa-oh, oh, whoa-oh
Whoa-oh, oh, whoa-oh
Whoa-oh, oh, whoa-oh
Whoa-oh, oh, whoa-oh
Whoa-oh, oh, whoa-oh
Whoa-oh, oh, whoa-oh
Whoa-oh, oh, whoa-oh
Whoa-oh, oh, whoa-oh