Sting, whose real name is Gordon Sumner, is a British musician, singer-songwriter, and actor who has left an indelible mark on the world of music and entertainment. Born on October 2, 1951, in Wallsend, England, he is renowned for his versatile talent, distinctive voice, and songwriting prowess.
Sting first gained fame as the lead vocalist and bassist of the rock band The Police in the late 1970s and early 1980s. The band’s hits, including “Roxanne,” “Every Breath You Take,” and “Message in a Bottle,” catapulted them to international stardom, making them one of the most iconic rock acts of their era.
Following The Police, Sting embarked on a highly successful solo career. His solo albums explored a wide range of genres, including pop, rock, jazz, and world music, showcasing his musical versatility. Hits like “Fields of Gold,” “Englishman in New York,” and “Shape of My Heart” established him as a solo artist of exceptional talent.
Beyond his music career, Sting has engaged in activism and philanthropy, advocating for environmental causes and social justice. He has received numerous awards and accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards and a CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire) for his services to music.
Sting’s enduring legacy in the music industry and his ability to continually reinvent his sound while maintaining a distinct artistic identity have solidified his status as an iconic figure in the world of music and culture.
1. Roxanne
“Roxanne” is one of the most iconic songs by the British rock band The Police, released in 1978 as the debut single from their album “Outlandos d’Amour.” The song was written by the band’s lead vocalist and bassist, Sting, and it has become one of their signature tracks.
“Roxanne” is characterized by its distinctive reggae-influenced rock sound and Sting’s distinctive, emotive vocals. The lyrics tell the story of a man pleading with a prostitute named Roxanne to change her life and leave her profession. The repeated refrain of “Roxanne” in the chorus has made the song instantly recognizable.
Despite its controversial subject matter, “Roxanne” received significant radio airplay and became a hit for The Police. The song’s catchy melody and Sting’s impassioned delivery resonated with audiences, and it remains a classic of both rock and new wave music.
Over the years, “Roxanne” has been covered and referenced by numerous artists in various genres, and it has been featured in films, television shows, and commercials. Its enduring popularity and cultural impact have solidified its place as one of the most beloved and recognizable songs in the history of rock music.
2. Every Breath You Take
“Every Breath You Take” is one of the most iconic and enduring songs by the British rock band The Police. It was released in 1983 as a single from their album “Synchronicity” and quickly became one of their biggest hits. The song was written by the band’s lead vocalist and bassist, Sting.
“Every Breath You Take” is known for its distinctive melody, evocative lyrics, and Sting’s captivating vocal performance. The song explores themes of obsession and possessiveness in a relationship, with the lyrics describing a sense of constant surveillance and longing. Despite the somewhat dark subject matter, the melody and arrangement give the song a hauntingly beautiful quality.
The song’s chorus, with the repeated line “Every breath you take, I’ll be watching you,” has become instantly recognizable and is often associated with themes of love and devotion. Musically, it features a memorable guitar riff and a gentle, yet hypnotic, rhythm.
Upon its release, “Every Breath You Take” achieved massive commercial success and topped the charts in multiple countries. It won several Grammy Awards, including Song of the Year, and became a timeless classic of the rock and pop genres. The song’s enduring popularity has made it a favorite for weddings and romantic occasions, despite its somewhat ambiguous lyrical content.
3. Fields of Gold
“Fields of Gold” is a beautiful and emotionally resonant song by the British musician Sting, released in 1993 as a single from his album “Ten Summoner’s Tales.” Sting, whose real name is Gordon Sumner, wrote the song, and it has since become one of his most beloved and enduring compositions.
“Fields of Gold” is characterized by its gentle acoustic guitar melody and Sting’s heartfelt and soulful vocals. The lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia and romantic longing as they describe a pastoral scene of golden fields and the passage of time. The imagery of the fields of gold serves as a metaphor for cherished memories and the fleeting nature of life.
The song’s chorus, with the repeated line “Will you stay with me, will you be my love among the fields of barley?” is particularly memorable and touching. The melody and Sting’s emotive delivery contribute to the song’s timeless quality.
“Fields of Gold” has been covered by various artists and has been used in films, television shows, and commercials. Its universal themes of love, nostalgia, and the passage of time have made it a favorite for weddings and other special occasions. The song remains a testament to Sting’s songwriting prowess and his ability to create music that resonates deeply with listeners.
4. Shape of My Heart
“Shape of My Heart” is a song by the English musician Sting, from his album “Ten Summoner’s Tales,” released in 1993. The song is notable for its introspective lyrics and intricate guitar work.
“Shape of My Heart” is a contemplative and melancholic song that explores themes of love, fate, and self-discovery. Sting’s vocals are accompanied by acoustic guitar arrangements, and the melody has a poignant and haunting quality.
The song’s lyrics suggest that the character is a gambler and that his experiences at the card table reflect his life journey. Lines like “He may play the jack of diamonds / He may lay the queen of spades” evoke the idea of taking risks and making choices in life.
“Shape of My Heart” became a significant hit for Sting, and it remains one of his most enduring and beloved songs. Its emotive lyrics and musical composition have resonated with audiences for decades, making it a classic in Sting’s repertoire.
5. If I Ever Lose My Faith in You
“If I Ever Lose My Faith in You” is a song by the English musician Sting, released in 1993 as part of his album “Ten Summoner’s Tales.” The song was a commercial success and received critical acclaim.
The lyrics of “If I Ever Lose My Faith in You” explore themes of trust, doubt, and the complexities of relationships. Sting sings about the importance of faith and trust in a partnership, expressing his vulnerability and fear of losing that trust. The song’s title and chorus highlight the central theme of maintaining faith in a loved one.
Musically, the song features Sting’s distinctive vocals and a blend of pop and rock elements, with a memorable melody and strong instrumentation.
“If I Ever Lose My Faith in You” received the Grammy Award for Best Pop Vocal Performance, Male, in 1994. It has remained one of Sting’s most popular and enduring songs, reflecting his songwriting prowess and ability to craft emotionally resonant music.
6. If You Love Somebody Set Them Free
“If You Love Somebody Set Them Free” is a song by English musician Sting, released as a single in 1985. It is the opening track from his solo debut album, “The Dream of the Blue Turtles,” which marked his departure from The Police, the band he had been a part of.
The song’s lyrics convey a message of freedom and independence in relationships. Sting sings about the importance of allowing a loved one to have their own space and not holding them back. The phrase “If you love somebody, set them free” serves as the central theme of the song.
Musically, the track features a blend of pop, rock, and jazz influences, characteristic of Sting’s solo work. It incorporates catchy melodies and showcases Sting’s distinctive voice.
“If You Love Somebody Set Them Free” was a commercial success and helped establish Sting’s solo career. It remains one of his most recognizable and enduring songs, known for its upbeat and optimistic message about love and relationships.
7. Desert Rose
“Desert Rose” is a captivating and exotic song by the British musician Sting, featuring Algerian singer Cheb Mami. It was released in 1999 as a single from Sting’s album “Brand New Day.” The song is notable for its fusion of Western pop and rock with North African and Middle Eastern influences, creating a unique and enchanting sound.
In “Desert Rose,” Sting’s distinctive vocals blend harmoniously with Cheb Mami’s passionate and soulful singing in Arabic. The lyrics speak of longing and desire, with the metaphor of the desert rose representing an unattainable love. The combination of English and Arabic lyrics adds to the song’s exotic and evocative atmosphere.
The music video for “Desert Rose” features stunning visuals that complement the song’s theme, showcasing both Sting and Cheb Mami in a desert setting with vibrant colors and mystical imagery.
The song received critical acclaim and commercial success, earning Grammy nominations and charting in various countries. Its unique blend of musical styles and cultural influences made it a standout track in Sting’s catalog. “Desert Rose” remains a testament to Sting’s musical innovation and his willingness to explore diverse and global sounds in his music.
8. Message in a Bottle
“Message in a Bottle” is a classic song by the British rock band The Police. It was released as a single in 1979 and is also featured on their second studio album, “Reggatta de Blanc.”
The song’s lyrics tell the story of a castaway who finds himself stranded on a deserted island, where he writes a message and places it in a bottle, throwing it out to sea in the hopes that someone will find it and rescue him. The chorus features the iconic lines, “Sending out an S.O.S., sending out an S.O.S., sending out an S.O.S., sending out an S.O.S.”
“Message in a Bottle” is known for its catchy melody, Sting’s distinctive vocals, and the band’s reggae-influenced rock sound. The song became a massive hit for The Police and helped establish them as one of the leading bands of the late 1970s and early 1980s.
The track’s themes of loneliness, isolation, and the desire for connection resonated with audiences and contributed to its enduring popularity. “Message in a Bottle” remains one of The Police’s most iconic and beloved songs.
9. Englishman in New York
“Englishman in New York” is a song by the British musician Sting, released in 1987 as a single from his album “Nothing Like the Sun.” The song is known for its catchy melody, witty lyrics, and memorable saxophone riff.
The song’s lyrics are a tribute to the British author and eccentric figure Quentin Crisp, who moved to New York City in the 1980s. Sting wrote the song as an homage to Crisp’s unique personality and his experiences as an outsider in the city. The lyrics convey a sense of individuality and self-acceptance, with lines like “I’m an alien, I’m a legal alien, I’m an Englishman in New York” emphasizing the idea of being true to oneself.
Musically, “Englishman in New York” features a blend of pop, jazz, and reggae elements, with the saxophone riff played by Branford Marsalis adding a distinctive touch to the song. Sting’s vocals are smooth and melodic, and the chorus is both catchy and anthemic.
The song received positive reviews and became a chart success. It has remained a popular and enduring track in Sting’s solo career, celebrated for its uplifting message and infectious sound. “Englishman in New York” has also been covered and referenced by various artists over the years, further solidifying its place in the realm of pop music.
10. Fragile
“Fragile” is a song by the English musician Sting, released in 1987 as part of his second solo studio album, “Nothing Like the Sun.” The song is notable for its poignant and reflective lyrics, as well as its intricate guitar work.
The lyrics of “Fragile” explore the vulnerability and impermanence of life and the world. Sting’s evocative words and haunting melody convey a sense of beauty and frailty in the face of various challenges and uncertainties. The song’s chorus, with the repeated phrase “Fragile,” serves as a reminder of the delicate nature of existence.
Musically, “Fragile” features Sting’s emotive vocals and his skilled guitar playing, combining elements of folk, jazz, and world music. The song has a timeless quality and has been praised for its musical and lyrical depth.
“Fragile” has become one of Sting’s signature songs and remains a fan favorite. Its themes of human vulnerability and the need for empathy and understanding continue to resonate with audiences, making it a lasting and cherished part of his discography.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
