It's A Sin was the first song from Actually released as a single. In fact, 'Heart' was intended to be the first single from the album, but after a phone call from manager Tom Watkins, they were persuaded to release 'It's A Sin' first instead, because 'it was obviously the most commercial track on the album.'
Releases and Versions[]
The single was released worldwide on a variety of formats with various mixes. An extended version was done by Stephen Hague and the band, based on the original mix. Ian Levine did the remix for the limited edition releases. Finally, Phil Harding completed two remixes which mainly appeared on US releases.
Design and Packaging[]
The photos for the cover were taken in Christchurch, Spitalfields and were taken by Eric Watson. The photo for the remix vinyl is a close up of Chris' jailer costume from the video. Design for both sleeves was by Mark Farrow.
Videos[]
Derek Jarman directed this video, featuring Neil brought before a judiciary in chains, with Chris acting as jailer. Personifications of the seven deadly sins of Catholicism appear throughout.
Reception[]
Chart Positions[]
| Country | Peak Position |
|---|---|
| Australia | 10 |
| Austria | 1 |
| Canada | 8 |
| Finland | 1 |
| France | 12 |
| Germany | 1 |
| Ireland | 1 |
| Italy | 1 |
| New Zealand | 8 |
| Norway | 1 |
| Poland | 1 |
| Spain | 1 |
| Sweden | 1 |
| UK | 1 |
| USA (Hot 100) | 9 |
| USA (Dance) | 3 |
Certification[]
The single reached Platinum in Sweden, Gold in Austria and Spain and Silver in the UK.