Members
Julian Casablancas (vocals), Nick Valensi (guitar), Albert Hammond Jr. (guitar), Nikolai Fraiture (bass), and Fabrizio Moretti (drums)
Formation
The founding process of The Strokes was a serendipitous convergence of childhood connections and a shared musical vision. Julian Casablancas, Fabrizio Moretti, and Nick Valensi, childhood friends with varying musical experiences, came together in the late '90s. The trio's dynamic was enriched with the addition of guitarist Albert Hammond Jr. and bassist Nikolai Fraiture. Bonded by a mutual love for garage rock, punk, and new wave, the quintet officially formed The Strokes in 1998, embarking on a journey to synthesize their diverse influences into a sound that would later redefine the indie rock landscape. The amalgamation of their individual talents and shared passion for music set the stage for The Strokes' rise to prominence in the early 2000s.
Is This It (2001)
"Is This It" The Strokes" debut album released in 2001 under the reputable record label RCA, is an electrifying sonic manifesto that not only redefined the landscape of indie rock but also garnered widespread critical acclaim. Infused with a raw and unfiltered energy, the album became an instant classic, hailed for its gritty exploration of New York City's underground music scene. Featuring iconic tracks like "Last Nite" and "Someday," Julian Casablancas' charismatic vocals, Nick Valensi and Albert Hammond Jr.'s guitar interplay, and the band's overall swagger made "Is This It" a timeless masterpiece. Its critical acclaim propelled The Strokes to the forefront of the early 2000s indie rock revival, cementing their status as trailblazers in the genre.
Room On Fire (2003)
"Room On Fire" the sophomore album by The Strokes released in 2003, seamlessly follows the success of their groundbreaking debut, "Is This It" The Strokes" (2001). While "Is This It" The Strokes" quickly became a cultural touchstone and achieved widespread acclaim, "Room On Fire" faced the challenge of living up to its predecessor's legacy.
From the rhythmic urgency of "12:51" to the infectious guitar riffs of "Reptilia," each track on "Room On Fire" showcases The Strokes' continued commitment to crafting catchy, yet substantive, rock anthems. While not eclipsing the commercial success of their debut, the album solidified The Strokes' standing as stalwarts of the early 2000s rock revival, demonstrating their artistic growth and ability to sustain their unique sound.
Juicebox and First Impressions Of Earth (2005 - 2006)
"Juicebox" by The Strokes, released as a single on November 14, 2005, ahead of their album "First Impressions of Earth," faced an early online leak, adding to the anticipation. Despite this, the track's bold guitar riffs and Julian Casablancas' charismatic vocals contributed to its positive reception, marking a significant moment in The Strokes' musical journey. They also released a catchy B-side "Hawaii".
"First Impressions Of Earth" The Strokes' third studio album released in January 2006, received a mix of reviews. Critics praised the album's experimental departure from the band's earlier sound, commending Julian Casablancas' introspective lyrics, dynamic guitar work, and rhythmic innovation. Standout tracks like "Juicebox" and "You Only Live Once" showcased The Strokes' ability to evolve while retaining their signature coolness. Despite differing opinions, the album marked a bold exploration of new musical territories and sparked conversations about the band's artistic evolution within the indie rock landscape.
Angles (2011)
"Angles" released by The Strokes in 2011, is a pivotal album in the band's journey, receiving a mix of reviews. Critics lauded its experimentation and collaborative nature, showcasing a departure from their previous works. Standout tracks like "Under Cover of Darkness" and "Machu Picchu" received praise for blending The Strokes' signature sound with fresh influences. While some critics found the album's diversity refreshing, others felt it lacked cohesion. Despite mixed reviews, "Angles" signaled The Strokes' return with a revitalized energy, sparking conversations about their evolving musical direction.
Comedown Machine (2013)
"Comedown Machine" released by The Strokes in 2013, is a unique entry in their discography. The album showcases a departure from their traditional sound, embracing a more synth-driven and experimental approach. Tracks like "One Way Trigger" and "Tap Out" demonstrate The Strokes' willingness to evolve, dividing critics but still affirming their capacity for sonic exploration. "Comedown Machine" adds another layer to The Strokes' musical evolution, inviting listeners into a realm of unexpected sounds and creative divergence. The Strokes adopted a media blackout strategy, refraining from interviews and traditional promotional activities. This intentional approach added an air of mystery to the album's release, sparking curiosity and discussions about the band's creative intentions.
Future Present Past EP (2016)
"Future Present Past" is a 2016 EP by The Strokes, featuring tracks like "Drag Queen", "OBLIVIOUS" and "Threat Of Joy" offering a glimpse into the band's evolving sound during the period between their albums "Comedown Machine" and "The New Abnormal".
The New Abnormal (2020)
Produced by legendary music producer Rick Rubin, "The New Abnormal" is The Strokes' sixth studio album, released in 2020 after a seven-year hiatus. The album represents a return to the spotlight for the band and showcases a blend of their signature rock sound with fresh and contemporary elements. Notable tracks include "The Adults Are Talking" and "Selfless". "The New Abnormal" received critical acclaim for its maturity, experimentation, and the band's ability to evolve while staying true to their distinctive style. The album's release was a highly anticipated moment for fans, marking a successful comeback for The Strokes after their extended hiatus.
Albert Hammond Jr. confirmed, that The Strokes are working on a new album, a follow-up to the succesful "The New Abnormal".
Here are the band members' side projects along with their released albums:
Julian Casablancas:
Julian Casablancas - Phrazes For The Young (2009).The Voidz - Tyranny (2014), Virtue (2018).
Albert Hammond Jr.
Albert Hammond Jr. - Yours To Keep (2006), Como Te Llama? (2008), Momentary Masters (2016), Francis Trouble (2018).
Nick Valensi
CRX - New Skin (2016), Peek (2018).
Fabrizio Moretti
Little Joy - Little Joy (2008).machinegum - Conduit (2019).
Nikolai Fraiture
Nickel Eye - The Time Of The Assassins (2008).SUMMER MOON - With You Tonight (2017), Casino Days (2023).
Hawaii
The Strokes Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Sunny laid back L.A.
Whether you're in New York
Comfort 'round your block
Whether you're in the U.K.,
Where the sky is dark
And the grass is kinda green
You know like Central Park
Still my favorite place in this whole wide world
Has got to be in the middle of the ocean floor
I see you poking out of the ocean, Paradise on Earth
The 50th state, what?!
Hawaii
Ooh, ooh
Ooh, ooh, ooh
I wanna live in somewhere differentOh oh oh
A nuclear distaster might be on our way
But I don't care, I'm in the USA
Whether you're drunk or stoned
Or we're sober and old
If I'm with you I'm a happy man
If you feel safe and cold
While you count your gold
If your problem is you can't find
Your remote control
Still my favorite person in this whole wide world
Is the woman who can understand every word
And when she speaks to me, she makes me
See the whole world
As my favorite place
Hawaii
We got it made
Oh Oh Oh Oh
Yes, I know
Can we go
By plane or boat
Oh Oh Oh Oh
Whether you take it slow or you let me go
Whether you tell me something that i did not know
Whether you're neat and polite or you scream and fight
Whether you keep something from me that i would not like
Still my favourite attitude in this world so far
Is the friendly spirit of an iron heart
I like the way folks are in this most special place
I don't care what happens I'm taking a plane
Hawaii, Hawaii
Hawaii, Hawaii
I said
Hawaii, Hawaii
I said
Hawaii, Hawaii
I said
Hawaii, Hawaii
Kauai or Oahu
Molokai or Lanai
Maui and the big guy
Aka Hawaii
Hawaii, Hawaii
Hawaii, Hawaii
Ooh, ooh
Ooh, ooh, ooh
All I want to do is something different
Oh let me in
Oh, Cut off from Malaysia
Back in who knows when
Oh we got kinda lost
But my god What a place!
I profess
Airforce Jets
Cannot take
Away my soul
The lyrics to The Strokes' song "Hawaii" talk about how the singer finds Hawaii as their most favorite place in the world. The song's opening verse talks about how the singer doesn't care whether you're in L.A., New York, or the U.K; Hawaii is still their favorite place in the world. Hawaii is described as a paradise on Earth that pokes out of the ocean. The singer talks about how they'd want to live somewhere different and how they don't care if a nuclear disaster is on the way.
The second verse talks about how their favorite person is the woman who can understand every word they speak to them. The singer talks about how they don't care whether you're drunk, stoned, sober, or old; as long as they're with you, they're happy. The singer describes Hawaii as their favorite place in the world and how they don't care what happens; they're taking a plane to Hawaii.
Overall, the song talks about Hawaii like it's a magical place that's beautiful and peaceful compared to the rest of the world. The song's lyrics talk about how Hawaii is the singer's favorite place and how much they adore it.
Line by Line Meaning
Whether you're in L.A.,
Sunny laid back L.A.
Whether you're in New York
Comfort 'round your block
Whether you're in the U.K.,
Where the sky is dark
And the grass is kinda green
You know like Central Park
No matter where you are, be it in the sunshine of Los Angeles, on the home turf of New York City, or in the dark, green spaces of the UK, it doesn't change my unwavering love for my favorite place.
Still my favorite place in this whole wide world
Has got to be in the middle of the ocean floor
I see you poking out of the ocean, Paradise on Earth
Despite having been to so many places, nothing compares to the beauty of Hawaii, which I regard as the world's best place. I imagine it as a tropical paradise, filled with beautiful natural landscapes and endless oceans.
The 50th state, what?!
Hawaii
Hawaii is the state that occupies the 50th position in the list of American states, making it unique and worth exploring.
Ooh, ooh
Ooh, ooh, ooh
I wanna live in somewhere differentOh oh oh
A nuclear distaster might be on our way
But I don't care, I'm in the USA
I've been dreaming of finding a unique and unusual place to settle, even though America may face a possible nuclear threat. Despite the risk, living in the USA is still something I wish to experience.
Whether you're drunk or stoned
Or we're sober and old
If I'm with you I'm a happy man
If you feel safe and cold
While you count your gold
If your problem is you can't find
Your remote control
Being around someone I love, whether they're at their best or worst, is enough to make me happy no matter what. Even if you're feeling cold and aloof, or you're preoccupied with your own concerns, I'll be right there with you, always making sure you know how important you are to me.
Still my favorite person in this whole wide world
Is the woman who can understand every word
And when she speaks to me, she makes me
See the whole world
As my favorite place
Hawaii
No matter how much I love Hawaii, my favorite person in the world is the woman who truly knows me and understands everything I say. When she talks, I feel as though I'm in my favorite place in the world, Hawaii.
We got it made
Oh Oh Oh Oh
Yes, I know
Can we go
By plane or boat
Oh Oh Oh Oh
We've got so much going for us, and I know it. But the only thing I could ask for is the chance to visit Hawaii, whether by plane or by boat.
Whether you take it slow or you let me go
Whether you tell me something that i did not know
Whether you're neat and polite or you scream and fight
Whether you keep something from me that i would not like
No matter how you act or how you treat me, I'll always be your friend. Even if we disagree or you keep things from me, I'll still be there for you, willing to listen and learn from you.
Still my favourite attitude in this world so far
Is the friendly spirit of an iron heart
I like the way folks are in this most special place
I don't care what happens I'm taking a plane
The thing I most appreciate in the people of Hawaii is their kind and open nature, despite their immense strength and resilience. I love the people of this special place so much, I'm willing to do whatever it takes to visit them.
Hawaii, Hawaii
Hawaii, Hawaii
I said
Hawaii, Hawaii
I said
Hawaii, Hawaii
I said
Hawaii, Hawaii
Hawaii, Hawaii is a chant I repeat in my mind when I think of this beautiful state and all the wonderful experiences that come with visiting it.
Kauai or Oahu
Molokai or Lanai
Maui and the big guy
Aka Hawaii
Hawaii, Hawaii
Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui and the big island of Hawaii are all great locations within the state of Hawaii that I would love to visit.
Ooh, ooh
Ooh, ooh, ooh
All I want to do is something different
Oh let me in
Oh, Cut off from Malaysia
Back in who knows when
Oh we got kinda lost
But my god What a place!
I profess
Airforce Jets
Cannot take
Away my soul
I feel trapped in the monotony of life and I long to experience something genuinely different. I want to visit Hawaii but getting there may be difficult due to its location. But Hawaii is worth overcoming any challenge. Airforce jets could never take the spirit and beauty of Hawaii from me.
Lyrics © Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Julian Casablancas
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
Andres Isaac
Whether you're in L.A.,
Sunny laid back L.A.
Whether you're in New York
Comfort 'round your block
Whether you're in the U.K.,
Where the sky is dark
And the grass is kinda green
You know like Central Park
Still my favorite place in this whole wide world
Has got to be in the middle of the ocean floor
I see you poking out of the ocean, Paradise on Earth
The 50th state, what?!
Hawaii
Ooh, ooh
Ooh, ooh, ooh
I wanna live in somewhere differentOh oh oh
A nuclear distaster might be on our way
But I don't care, I'm in the USA
Whether you're drunk or stoned
Or we're sober and old
If I'm with you I'm a happy man
If you feel safe and cold
While you count your gold
If your problem is you can't find
Your remote control
Still my favorite person in this whole wide world
Is the woman who can understand every word
And when she speaks to me, she makes me
See the whole world
As my favorite place
Hawaii
We got it made
Oh Oh Oh Oh
Yes, I know
Can we go
By plane or boat
Oh Oh Oh Oh
Whether you take it slow or you let me go
Whether you tell me something that i did not know
Whether you're neat and polite or you scream and fight
Whether you keep something from me that i would not like
Still my favourite attitude in this world so far
Is the friendly spirit of an iron heart
I like the way folks are in this most special place
I don't care what happens I'm taking a plane
Hawaii, Hawaii
Hawaii, Hawaii
I said
Hawaii, Hawaii
I said
Hawaii, Hawaii
I said
Hawaii, Hawaii
Kauai or Oahu
Molokai or Lanai
Maui and the big guy
Aka Hawaii
Hawaii, Hawaii
Hawaii, Hawaii
Ooh, ooh
Ooh, ooh, ooh
All I want to do is something different
Oh let me in
Oh, Cut off from Malaysia
Back in who knows when
Oh we got kinda lost
But my god What a place!
I profess
Airforce Jets
Cannot take
Away my soul
Maryam Chaudhary
\n Can we go by plane or boat?
Whether you take it slow or you let me go
Whether you tell me something that I did not know
Whether you're neat and polite or you scream and fight
Whether you keep something from me that I wouldn't like
Still my favorite attitude in this world so far
Is the friendly spirit of an iron heart
Like the way folks are in this most special place
I don't care what happens, I'm taking a plane to
Hawaii, Hawaii, Hawaii, Hawaii, Hawaii, Hawaii
Hawaii, Hawaii, Kauai or Oahu
Molokai or Lanai, Maui and the big guy
A.k.a. Hawaii, Hawaii, Hawaii, Hawaii, ooh, ooh
All I want to do is something different
Oh, let me in, cut off from Malaysia
Back in who knows when, oh, we got kinda lost
But my God, what a place, I profess
Airforce jets cannot take away my soul
Maryam Chaudhary
Whether you're in L.A., sunny laid back L.A
Whether you're in New York, comfort 'round your block
Whether you're in the U.K., where the sky is dark
And the grass is kinda green, you know like Central Park
Still my favorite place in this whole wide world
Has got to be in the middle of the ocean floor
I see you poking out of the ocean, paradise on Earth
The 50th state, what? Hawaii
I wanna live in somewhere different
A nuclear distaster might be on our way
But I don't care, I'm in the U.S.A
Whether you're drunk or stoned or we're sober and old
If I'm with you, I'm a happy man
If you feel safe and cold while you count your gold
If your problem is you can't find your remote control
Still my favorite person in this whole wide world
Is the woman who can understand every word
And when she speaks to me, she makes me
See the whole world as my favorite place, Hawaii
We got it made, yes, I know
Killua
Hawaii
Quer você esteja em L.A., relaxado com sol de L.A
Se você está em Nova York, conforto em volta do seu quarteirão
Se você está no Reino Unido, onde o céu é escuro
E a grama é meio verde, você sabe, como o Central Park
Ainda será meu lugar favorito nesse mundo todo
Ter que estar no meio do fundo do oceano
Eu vejo você saindo do oceano, o paraíso na Terra
O 50º estado, o que? Havaí
Eu quero viver em algum lugar diferente
Um desastre nuclear pode estar a caminho
Mas eu não me importo, estou nos EUA
Se você está bêbado ou drogado ou se é sóbrio e velho
Se eu estou com você, sou um homem feliz
Se você se sentir seguro e frio enquanto conta seu ouro
Se o seu problema é que você não consegue encontrar o seu controle remoto
Ainda será minha pessoa favorita neste mundo inteiro
Ela é a mulher que consegue entender cada palavra
E quando ela fala comigo, ela me faz
Ver o mundo inteiro como meu lugar favorito, Havaí
Nós conseguimos, sim, eu sei
Podemos ir? De avião ou barco?
Ou você vai devagar ou me deixa ir
Ou você me conta algo que eu não sabia
Ou você é legal e educado ou grita e briga
Ou você mantém algo meu que eu não gostaria.
Minha atitude favorita nesse mundo até agora
É o espírito amistoso de um coração de aço
Como o jeito que os amigos são nesse lugar tão especial
Eu não me importo com o que aconteça, estou tomando o avião para
Havaí, Havaí
Havaí, Havaí
Eu disse
Havaí, Havaí
Eu disse
Havaí, Havaí
Eu disse
Havaí, Havaí
Kauai ou Oahu
Molokai ou Lanai
Maui e o grande cara,
Também conhecido como Havaí
Você quer algo diferente?
Cortado da Malásia
De volta quem sabe quando
Oh nos perdemos
Mas Meu deus, que lugar
Eu professo
Jatos da Força Aérea
Não podem levar
Minha alma embora
John Doe
@drus
"I wanna live in somewhere different
A nuclear disaster might be on our way
But I don't care, I'm in the U.S.A
Whether you're drunk or stoned or we're sober and old
If I'm with you, I'm a happy man
If you feel safe and cold while you count your gold
If your problem is you can't find your remote control"
If you don't think these lyrics are dark, you might be a bit mentally-challenged.
bridget
"still my favorite person in this whole wide world is the woman who can understand every word and when she speaks to me, she makes me see the whole world as my favorite place... hawaii" probably the sweetest line ever written
Skywatcher
❤
Daniel Druce
@Nick Toothpick I say if they say what they want to say and they make you feel ideas then the lyrics are doing what they need to
infinity plus
@Melissa Hagerson YES the i love you more than being 17 line always gets me.
Victoria Garon
Hannah Williams they got divorced
Andrew Neeley
Probably one of the best songs they've done, no idea why they wouldn't put this on one of the albums
RagingCool
I think 1) he wrote it for his wife for their honeymoon and 2) it didn’t really fit the vibes of FIOE when it was released
David Bowie Knife
might be because its a b-side?
rogernelsonjr69
@Ben julian and his wife split while he was writing the new abnormal
Ben
Perhaps it’s something political? Or he’s split from his wife (song wrote on Julians honeymoon) Who knows how their minds work