Sting, born Gordon Matthew Thomas Sumner on October 2, 1951, is an English musician, singer, songwriter, and actor. He first gained fame as the lead vocalist and bassist for the rock band The Police, which formed in 1977. The Police achieved worldwide success with hits like “Roxanne,” “Every Breath You Take,” and “Message in a Bottle.”
After The Police disbanded in 1984, Sting launched a successful solo career. His solo work incorporates elements of rock, pop, jazz, reggae, and world music, showcasing his versatility as a musician and songwriter. Sting’s solo hits include “If You Love Somebody Set Them Free,” “Fields of Gold,” “Englishman in New York,” and “Shape of My Heart.”
Throughout his career, Sting has received numerous awards and accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards, Brit Awards, and an induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of The Police. He is also known for his activism and philanthropy, particularly in the areas of environmental conservation and human rights.
In addition to his music career, Sting has appeared in several films and stage productions, showcasing his talents as an actor. He continues to record and perform music, remaining a prominent and influential figure in the world of rock and pop music.
1. Every Breath You Take
“Every Breath You Take” is a song by Sting, released in 1983 as a single from the album “Synchronicity” by his band, The Police. Sting wrote the song, which became one of The Police’s most iconic and commercially successful hits.
“Every Breath You Take” is characterized by its haunting melody, sparse instrumentation, and evocative lyrics. The song’s lyrics depict themes of obsession and possessiveness, with the narrator expressing a sense of longing and surveillance over a former lover. Despite its seemingly romantic tone, the lyrics reveal a darker undercurrent of control and manipulation.
Musically, “Every Breath You Take” features a distinctive guitar riff and a minimalist arrangement that puts emphasis on Sting’s emotive vocals. The song’s atmospheric production and catchy hook contributed to its widespread popularity and critical acclaim.
Upon its release, “Every Breath You Take” topped the charts in numerous countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom. It won the Grammy Award for Song of the Year in 1984 and has since become one of the best-selling singles of all time.
“Every Breath You Take” remains a timeless classic and a staple of Sting’s live performances. Its enduring popularity and universal appeal have solidified its status as one of the greatest songs in the history of popular music.
2. Roxanne
“Roxanne” is a song by the British rock band The Police, written by the band’s lead vocalist and bassist Sting. It was released in 1978 as the debut single from their album “Outlandos d’Amour.”
“Roxanne” is one of The Police’s most famous and enduring songs. It features a distinctive reggae-influenced rhythm, catchy guitar riffs, and Sting’s distinctive vocals. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a man pleading with a prostitute named Roxanne to change her ways and find a better life.
Despite its controversial subject matter, “Roxanne” was a commercial success, reaching the top 40 in several countries and becoming one of The Police’s signature songs. It has been covered by numerous artists and has appeared in various films, TV shows, and commercials over the years.
“Roxanne” remains a beloved classic of rock music and is often cited as one of the greatest songs of all time. Its infectious melody and memorable lyrics have ensured its enduring popularity for decades.
3. Fields of Gold
“Fields of Gold” is a song by Sting, released in 1993 as a single from his album “Ten Summoner’s Tales.” Sting wrote the song, which has become one of his most beloved and enduring hits.
“Fields of Gold” is characterized by its gentle melody, acoustic guitar accompaniment, and evocative lyrics. The song’s lyrics describe a nostalgic reflection on love and the passage of time, with the narrator reminiscing about a past relationship and the memories they shared in fields of golden wheat.
Musically, “Fields of Gold” features a stripped-down arrangement that highlights Sting’s emotive vocals and the poignant beauty of the song’s melody. The song’s atmospheric production and heartfelt lyrics struck a chord with listeners, earning widespread acclaim and commercial success.
Upon its release, “Fields of Gold” reached the top 10 on the charts in numerous countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom. It has since become one of Sting’s signature songs and a fan favorite at his live performances.
“Fields of Gold” has been covered by various artists over the years and has been featured in numerous films, television shows, and commercials. Its timeless appeal and universal themes of love and nostalgia continue to resonate with listeners, making it a beloved classic in the singer-songwriter genre.
4. Shape of My Heart
“Shape of My Heart” is a song by Sting, released in 1993 as the fifth single from his album “Ten Summoner’s Tales.” The song was co-written by Sting and his guitarist, Dominic Miller.
“Shape of My Heart” is characterized by its gentle acoustic guitar melody, poignant lyrics, and Sting’s emotive vocals. The song’s lyrics explore themes of love, vulnerability, and the complexities of human relationships. Sting uses the metaphor of playing cards to convey the idea of someone who guards their emotions and hides their true feelings behind a poker face.
The song was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 in several countries and becoming one of Sting’s most enduring hits. “Shape of My Heart” has been praised for its beautiful melody and introspective lyrics, and it remains a fan favorite and a staple of Sting’s live performances.
The song has also been covered by various artists and has appeared in several films, TV shows, and commercials, further solidifying its status as a classic of contemporary pop music.
5. Desert Rose
“Desert Rose” is a song by Sting featuring Algerian singer Cheb Mami. It was released in 1999 as the lead single from Sting’s album “Brand New Day.”
“Desert Rose” blends elements of pop, rock, and world music, incorporating Middle Eastern and North African musical influences. The song features a hypnotic melody, intricate instrumentation, and powerful vocals from both Sting and Cheb Mami.
Lyrically, “Desert Rose” explores themes of longing, desire, and the search for love. The lyrics evoke imagery of the desert landscape and use the metaphor of a desert rose to symbolize beauty, mystery, and the allure of the unknown.
The song was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 in several countries and earning critical acclaim for its innovative sound and captivating vocals. “Desert Rose” remains one of Sting’s most popular and beloved songs, and it has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials since its release.
6. If I Ever Lose My Faith in You
“If I Ever Lose My Faith in You” is a song by Sting, released in 1993 as the lead single from his album “Ten Summoner’s Tales.” Sting wrote the song, which became one of his most successful solo singles.
“If I Ever Lose My Faith in You” is characterized by its melodic piano riff, soulful vocals, and introspective lyrics. The song’s lyrics explore themes of doubt, faith, and the search for meaning in a tumultuous world. Sting sings about the uncertainty of life and relationships, expressing a desire for reassurance and guidance.
Musically, “If I Ever Lose My Faith in You” features a polished production that blends elements of rock, pop, and jazz, showcasing Sting’s versatility as a songwriter and performer. The song’s infectious melody and heartfelt lyrics struck a chord with listeners, earning widespread acclaim and commercial success.
Upon its release, “If I Ever Lose My Faith in You” reached the top 10 on the charts in numerous countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom. It won the Grammy Award for Best Pop Vocal Performance, Male, in 1994, further solidifying its status as one of Sting’s signature songs.
“If I Ever Lose My Faith in You” has since become a staple of Sting’s live performances and a fan favorite among his repertoire. Its timeless message of resilience and hope continues to resonate with audiences, making it a beloved classic in the singer-songwriter genre.
7. Message in a Bottle
“Message in a Bottle” is a song by the British rock band The Police, released in 1979 as the lead single from their album “Reggatta de Blanc.”
“Message in a Bottle” is one of The Police’s most famous and enduring songs. It features a distinctive guitar riff, catchy melody, and Sting’s emotive vocals. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a castaway who sends out an SOS message in a bottle, hoping to be rescued and find connection with others.
The song was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 in several countries and becoming one of The Police’s signature songs. “Message in a Bottle” has been praised for its memorable melody, energetic performance, and relatable lyrics, and it remains a beloved classic of rock music.
The song has been covered by numerous artists and has appeared in various films, TV shows, and commercials over the years. Its timeless appeal and universal themes of loneliness and connection have ensured its enduring popularity for decades.
8. Englishman in New York
“Englishman in New York” is a song by Sting, released in 1988 as the second single from his album “…Nothing Like the Sun.” Sting wrote the song as a tribute to the English writer and eccentric Quentin Crisp, who had moved to New York City.
“Englishman in New York” is characterized by its jazzy and reggae-infused melody, accompanied by Sting’s distinctive vocals and poignant lyrics. The song’s lyrics celebrate Crisp’s individuality, resilience, and unapologetic embrace of his identity as an Englishman living in New York City. Sting’s admiration for Crisp’s courage and uniqueness shines through in the lyrics, capturing the spirit of tolerance and acceptance.
Musically, “Englishman in New York” features a catchy saxophone riff and a laid-back groove that reflects the song’s themes of independence and self-expression. The song’s upbeat and infectious melody, combined with Sting’s soulful vocals, struck a chord with listeners and earned widespread acclaim.
Upon its release, “Englishman in New York” became a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the charts in numerous countries, including the United Kingdom. It has since become one of Sting’s most iconic and enduring songs, beloved by fans around the world for its catchy melody and uplifting message of embracing one’s individuality.
“Englishman in New York” has been covered by various artists and has been featured in films, television shows, and commercials, further cementing its status as a classic of Sting’s solo career. Its timeless appeal and universal themes of tolerance and acceptance continue to resonate with audiences, making it a beloved anthem for outsiders and free spirits everywhere.
9. If You Love Somebody Set Them Free
“If You Love Somebody Set Them Free” is a song by Sting, released in 1985 as the lead single from his debut solo album “The Dream of the Blue Turtles.”
The song features a lively and rhythmic groove, incorporating elements of jazz, pop, and rock. Sting’s distinctive vocals and thought-provoking lyrics are central to the song’s appeal. The lyrics explore the theme of love and freedom, encouraging listeners to let go and allow their loved ones the space to be themselves.
“If You Love Somebody Set Them Free” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 in several countries. It became one of Sting’s most recognizable solo hits and remains a staple of his live performances. The song’s catchy melody, upbeat rhythm, and positive message have made it a favorite among fans of pop and rock music.
10. Fragile
“Fragile” is a song by Sting, released in 1987 as the second single from his album “…Nothing Like the Sun.” Sting wrote the song, which is notable for its introspective lyrics and haunting melody.
“Fragile” is characterized by its acoustic guitar arrangement, ethereal atmosphere, and Sting’s emotive vocals. The song’s lyrics explore themes of vulnerability, mortality, and the fragility of life itself. Sting draws on imagery from nature and human history to convey a sense of awe and reverence for the world around us.
Musically, “Fragile” features a delicate and intricate guitar melody that underscores the song’s contemplative mood. The sparse instrumentation allows Sting’s vocals to take center stage, adding to the song’s emotional resonance.
Upon its release, “Fragile” received critical acclaim and became a fan favorite. It has since become one of Sting’s most beloved and enduring songs, often cited as a highlight of his solo career. The song’s timeless message of compassion and empathy continues to resonate with listeners, making it a cherished classic in the singer-songwriter genre.
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.
