"Cant' Stand Losing You" is a song by The Police, released in 1978 as a single from their debut album, "Outlandos d'Amour." Here are some interesting facts about the song:
Inspiration for the Song: The song was written by The Police's lead vocalist and primary songwriter, Sting (Gordon Sumner). It is said to be inspired by the end of his first marriage to actress Frances Tomelty.
Photographic Cover Art: The single's cover art features a photograph of Sting with his face covered by police tape. This iconic image became synonymous with the song and is instantly recognizable.
Controversial Lyrics: The lyrics of "Can't Stand Losing You" are somewhat dark and deal with themes of heartbreak and desperation. The chorus includes the memorable line, "I can't stand losing you," conveying the pain of a failed relationship.
Banned in the UK: Despite its catchy melody and pop appeal, the song was temporarily banned by the BBC in the United Kingdom. The ban was due to the perceived controversial nature of the lyrics and the album cover featuring the aforementioned police tape. The ban was eventually lifted, and the song became a commercial success.
Chart Success: The song performed well on the charts, reaching No. 2 on the UK Singles Chart. It was also a success in other countries and helped establish The Police as a prominent new wave and rock band.
Multiple Versions: There are different versions of "Can't Stand Losing You." The original single version is shorter than the album version and has a slightly different mix. The song has been included in various Police compilations and live albums over the years.
Influence on Music Videos: The Police were among the pioneers of the music video era, and the video for "Can't Stand Losing You" is notable for its simplicity and style. The video features the band performing the song against a white background, with close-up shots of each member. This straightforward approach became a template for many music videos that followed.
"Can't Stand Losing You" remains one of The Police's most well-known and enduring songs, showcasing the band's ability to blend catchy melodies with thoughtful lyrics.