Rock Band The Police

Play 'Fields of Gold - Sting'

The Police probably marked the end of the era of three-piece rock bands that were not only commercially successful but had superb musicianship. They were a British rock band that formed in the late 1970s and are celebrated for their blend of rock, punk, and reggae. With Sting's distinctive voice and bass, Andy Summers' guitar work, and Stewart Copeland's drumming, they produced hits like "Roxanne” "Every Breath You Take” and "Message in a Bottle”. They dominated the early 1980s music scene before disbanding in 1986. Despite occasional reunions, the members have pursued successful solo careers.

The Police Career Highlights

1977:

Formation - The Police were formed in London by Stewart Copeland, who recruited Sting (Gordon Sumner) and guitarist Henry Padovani. Andy Summers later replaced Padovani, solidifying the classic lineup.

1978:

Debut Album - Released their debut album "Outlandos d'Amour” featuring hits like "Roxanne" and "Can't Stand Losing You."

1979:

Second Album - Released "Reggatta de Blanc” which included the hit singles "Message in a Bottle" and "Walking on the Moon."

1980:

Third Album - Released "Zenyatta Mondatta” featuring hits "Don't Stand So Close to Me" and "De Do Do Do, De Da Da Da."

1981:

Fourth Album - Released "Ghost in the Machine” including "Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic" and "Spirits in the Material World."

1983:

Fifth Album - Released "Synchronicity” their most successful album, featuring "Every Breath You Take” "King of Pain” and "Wrapped Around Your Finger."

1984:

Hiatus - The band took a break, pursuing solo projects, with Sting becoming particularly successful as a solo artist.

2007-2008:

Reunion Tour - The Police reunited for a successful world tour, commemorating their 30th anniversary.

The Police Grammy Awards

The Police have won six Grammy Awards

1981: Best Rock Instrumental Performance for "Reggatta de Blanc."
1982: Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal for "Don't Stand So Close to Me."
1984: Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal for "Every Breath You Take."
1984: Song of the Year for "Every Breath You Take."
2007: Grammy Hall of Fame Award for "Every Breath You Take."
2009: Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.

3 Most Famous Police Songs

1. "Every Breath You Take" (1983) - This song is often perceived as a love song but is actually about obsession and surveillance. It remains one of their most iconic and best-selling tracks. Much sampled too!

2. "Roxanne" (1978) - This track about a man in love with a prostitute helped launch their career and is still a staple in their live performances.

3. "Message in a Bottle" (1979) - A song about isolation and hope, it became their first UK number one and remains a fan favorite.

The Police Quotes

Sting:

The greatest thing about being in The Police is that we had enormous success, but we didn’t really know what we were doing. That’s why we were so successful.

Stewart Copeland:

The Police was a band that became successful because it had this chemistry of opposites.

The Police Scandal/Gossip/Trivia

Tension and Conflict: The band was notorious for internal conflicts and feuds, particularly between Sting and Stewart Copeland, often leading to physical fights during recording sessions.
Synchronicity Cover: The cover of their "Synchronicity" album features different variations with different color schemes, making it a collector's item.
Sting’s Solo Success: Sting’s solo career became immensely successful, often overshadowing the band's legacy during the 1980s and 1990s.
"Roxanne" Controversy: The song "Roxanne" faced initial radio bans due to its subject matter but went on to become one of their most loved songs.
Punk Roots: Despite their polished sound, The Police started with a punk rock ethos, playing in the same circuits as bands like The Clash and The Sex Pistols.