“Every Breath You Take,” released in 1983, remains one of The Police’s most iconic and enduring songs. The Police, a British rock band formed in 1977, comprised Sting (Gordon Matthew Thomas Sumner) on lead vocals, bass, and songwriting, Andy Summers on guitar, and Stewart Copeland on drums. Fusing punk rock energy with reggae and jazz influences, they carved out a unique sound that propelled them to international stardom. The band achieved massive success throughout the late 70s and early 80s, earning numerous accolades, including six Grammy Awards. Their albums consistently topped music charts globally, cementing their place as one of the most influential bands of their era.
“Every Breath You Take” was a global phenomenon, topping the Billboard Hot 100 for eight weeks and becoming the best-selling single of 1983. While commercially successful, the song’s meaning is darkly ironic. Penned by Sting amidst his dissolving marriage, the lyrics, seemingly romantic at first glance, actually depict obsessive surveillance and possessive control over a lover. This duality is often missed, leading to its misinterpretation as a love song at weddings and romantic occasions.
The song’s ambiguity has been a source of much discussion and debate. While some listeners find it beautiful and sentimental, others recognize the sinister undertones, highlighting the unsettling nature of the lyrics. Sting himself has acknowledged the song’s potential for misinterpretation, stating that it’s “a nasty little song about jealousy and surveillance.” Despite the controversy, “Every Breath You Take” remains a powerful and enduring piece of music, testament to The Police’s songwriting prowess and its ability to evoke complex emotions in its listeners. It serves as a cautionary tale wrapped in a deceptively beautiful melody, solidifying its place in music history.