Hero (Weezer song)
"Hero" is a song by the American rock band Weezer. It was originally released as a standalone single on May 6, 2020, and later included as a bonus track on the deluxe edition of their fourteenth studio album, Van Weezer (2021). The song was written by Rivers Cuomo and Scott Murphy and produced by Suzy Shinn.
Musically, "Hero" features a more straightforward rock sound compared to some of Weezer's other work, showcasing prominent guitar riffs and a driving rhythm section. Lyrically, the song explores the concept of heroism, but not in the traditional, grandiose sense. Instead, it focuses on finding the heroic qualities in everyday individuals and acknowledging the small acts of kindness and resilience that often go unnoticed. It also touches on themes of self-reflection and recognizing one's own limitations and flaws.
The release of "Hero" coincided with the COVID-19 pandemic, and its themes of recognizing everyday heroes resonated with many listeners. Weezer also released a music video for the song that featured clips of essential workers and ordinary people performing acts of kindness. "Hero" was generally well-received by critics and fans, with many praising its catchy melody and positive message.