"The Police" is a British rock band formed in London in 1977. One of their most iconic songs is "Every Breath You Take," released in 1983 as a part of their album "Synchronicity." Here are some interesting facts about the song:
Sting's Inspiration: Sting, the lead vocalist and songwriter of The Police, wrote "Every Breath You Take" in just a few minutes. The song's inspiration came from a combination of personal feelings and the idea of possessiveness in romantic relationships.
Grammy Awards: "Every Breath You Take" won two Grammy Awards in 1984. It received awards for both "Song of the Year" and "Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals." It remains one of The Police's most celebrated songs.
Stalker Anthem Misinterpretation: Despite its popularity, the song's lyrics are often misinterpreted. While it has a catchy melody, the lyrics describe the perspective of an obsessive and possessive lover. Sting has mentioned that it was written to be a darker, more ambiguous song.
Ubiquitous Radio Play: Over the years, "Every Breath You Take" has received extensive radio play and has been covered by numerous artists. Its distinctive melody and lyrics have made it a classic and enduring hit.
Music Video: The song's music video was directed by Godley & Creme, who also worked on several other iconic music videos. It features shots of The Police performing the song and scenes with a silhouette of Sting walking through a dark, rainy street.
Chart-Topping Success: "Every Breath You Take" spent eight weeks at the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States, making it one of the most successful singles of the 1980s.
Copyright Controversy: The song's popularity led to some legal disputes. In 2003, Sting was sued by a publisher who claimed that he had plagiarized the melody. Ultimately, Sting won the case.
Legacy: The song's enduring popularity has solidified its place in music history. It continues to be a favorite for many and is often played at weddings, despite its darker lyrical themes.
Cover Versions: Numerous artists from various genres have covered "Every Breath You Take." Notable covers include versions by Puff Daddy (as "I'll Be Missing You") and Aaron Neville.
Iconic Bassline: The song is instantly recognizable, in part due to its distinctive bassline, played by Sting himself. It has become one of the most famous basslines in rock history.
"Every Breath You Take" is not only one of The Police's signature songs but also a classic in the world of rock and pop music. Its catchy melody and haunting lyrics have left a lasting impact on music enthusiasts worldwide.