Island in the Sun - Harry Belafonte

1. Strophe

This is my island in the sun

where my people have toiled since time begun.

I may sail on many a sea,

her shores will always be home to me.

 

1. Refrain

Oh island in the sun willed to me by my father's hand,

all my days I will sing in praise, 

of your forest, waters, your shining sand.

 

2. Strophe

As morning breaks the heaven on high,

I lift my heavy load to the sky.

Sun comes down with a burning glow,

mingles my sweat with the earthly low.

 

2. Refrain

Oh island in the sun willed to me by my father's hand,

all my days I will sing in praise, 

of your forest, waters, your shining sand.

 

2. Strophe

I see woman on bended knee cutting cane for her family.    

I see man at the water-side, 

casting nets at the surfing tide

 

3. Refrain

Oh island in the sun willed to me by my father's hand,

all my days I will sing in praise, 

of your forest, waters, your shining sand.

 

3. Strophe

I hope the day will never come

that I can't awake to the sound of drum.

Never let me miss carnival,

with calypso songs, philosophical.

 

4. Refrain

Oh island in the sun willed to me by my father's hand,

all my days I will sing in praise,          

of your forest, waters, your shining sand.

 

Coda

Mmh,   mmh, mmh, mmmh...