Who's behind the notes? Discover Sting: The Iconic Musician and Storyteller
"Every Breath You Take" is a famous song by Sting, released in 1983 as a single with his band The Police, and later included on their album "Synchronicity." Here are some interesting facts about the song:
Origin of the Song: Sting wrote "Every Breath You Take" in 1982 during a stay in Jamaica. The inspiration for the song reportedly came from his feelings of jealousy and possessiveness over a failed relationship.
Misinterpretation: Despite its catchy melody, the song's lyrics convey a dark and obsessive tone. Many people initially interpreted it as a love song, but Sting has clarified that it's actually about surveillance and possessive behavior.
Chart-Topping Success: "Every Breath You Take" became one of The Police's most successful songs. It topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States for eight weeks in 1983 and also reached number one in the UK. It won two Grammy Awards in 1984, including Song of the Year.
Cover Versions: The song has been covered by numerous artists across different genres, including Puff Daddy (Diddy) in 1997, who added a rap section and sampled it for his song "I'll Be Missing You," a tribute to The Notorious B.I.G.
Sting's Most Lucrative Song: "Every Breath You Take" is often cited as Sting's most lucrative song. Due to its enduring popularity and consistent airplay, it continues to generate substantial royalty income for him.
Usage in Films and TV: The song has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials over the years. It has become a go-to choice for evoking a sense of longing, obsession, or surveillance in media.
Sting's Personal Favorite: Despite the song's dark themes, Sting has mentioned in interviews that it's one of his favorite songs from The Police's catalog because of its simple structure and universal appeal.
Music Video: The music video for "Every Breath You Take" features the band members performing in a dimly lit room while a rotating camera creates a disorienting effect. It's a simple yet iconic video that complements the song's mood.
Legacy: "Every Breath You Take" remains a staple of Sting's live performances, and it's often requested by fans. It's considered one of the defining songs of the 1980s and has left a lasting impact on popular music.
Legal Dispute: In 2019, Sting and his publisher EMI Music Publishing faced a legal dispute over the song's royalties. The case centered on the percentage of royalties received by Sting compared to those received by The Police as a band. The matter was eventually settled.
These facts showcase the enduring popularity and cultural significance of "Every Breath You Take" by Sting and The Police.