Why Should I Believe

The song "Why Should I Believe" by Shark Island from their 1989 album Law of the Order is a standout ballad that captures the emotional depth of the Los Angeles glam metal scene. In a 2020 interview with MetalTalk, lead vocalist Richard Black reflected on the song’s creation, noting that it was written during a period of personal turmoil, channeling themes of doubt and longing that resonated with fans. The track’s heartfelt lyrics, like “Midnight, traveling on my own / Streetlights lead the way from home,” were praised on Reddit’s hairmetal community for their raw vulnerability, with one fan calling it “a top-shelf ballad” that deserved more radio play. The song’s production, handled by Randy Nicklaus for Epic Records, aimed to balance the band’s live energy with a polished studio sound, though Black later admitted the album didn’t fully capture their explosive stage presence.

Interestingly, "Why Should I Believe" gained a second life through its inclusion in the 2004 reissue of Law of the Order by French label Bad Reputation, which added bonus tracks and live cuts. A fan on Amazon shared that they discovered the song years after its release, lamenting that poor label promotion in 1989 kept it from becoming a hit. Social media buzz on X has also highlighted the song’s enduring appeal, with a recent post from the band’s account teasing a live performance of the track during their 2019 European tour, sparking excitement among their dedicated “Zoo Freaks” audience. The song’s emotional weight and melodic hooks make it a favorite for fans nostalgic for the Sunset Strip era.

Shark Island began as The Sharks in 1979, formed by high school friends Richard Black (then Rick Czerny) and guitarist Spencer Sercombe in Los Angeles. According to their bio on Metal Storm, the duo started writing original material while practicing in a small Arcadia studio lined with empty Mickey’s Big Mouth bottles, which inspired the band’s early logo. Sercombe’s work with B.C. Rich guitars, where he helped design the iconic Warlock model, gave the band a distinctive edge in the local scene. By 1985, they rebranded as Shark Island, adopting a flashier glam metal style that made them a staple at venues like Gazzari’s and The Whisky. Their relentless performance schedule—often six days a week with multiple shows per night—built a cult following, with Black’s dynamic stage moves influencing figures like Axl Rose, as noted on Discogs.

The band’s big break came with a development deal from A&M Records, followed by a contract with Epic Records, leading to the release of Law of the Order. Despite their local fame, the rise of grunge and lack of label support sidelined them in the early 1990s. After a hiatus, Shark Island reformed in 2017, with Black and a new lineup including guitarist Alex Kane and bassist Christian Heilmann, continuing to tour Europe’s hair metal festivals. Fans can connect with the band on their Facebook page, where they share tour updates and throwback photos, or follow their Instagram for behind-the-scenes content. The X account keeps the conversation alive with fans, often dubbed “Shark Islanders,” who post about rare vinyl finds and favorite tracks like "Why Should I Believe." Dedicated fan communities, such as the Shark Island Fan Club on Facebook, offer a space for enthusiasts to trade memorabilia and discuss the band’s legacy.