The Police: Did You Know?

The Police: Fun Facts & Untold Stories Behind the Legendary Band

The Police are one of the most iconic bands to emerge from the late 1970s and early 1980s, known for their unique blend of punk, reggae, and rock. While hits like "Roxanne," "Every Breath You Take," and "Message in a Bottle" have become timeless classics, the band’s journey is filled with fascinating stories and little-known facts that even the most dedicated fans might not know. Here’s a closer look at some of the intriguing behind-the-scenes moments and fun facts about The Police.

1. The Band’s Unlikely Formation

The Police were formed in London in 1977, but their origins are far from typical. Stewart Copeland, the band’s drummer, was the driving force behind the group’s formation. After leaving the progressive rock band Curved Air, Copeland was eager to start a new project. He met Sting (born Gordon Sumner) while Sting was still a schoolteacher moonlighting as a musician in the jazz scene. Despite their different musical backgrounds—Sting was rooted in jazz and reggae, while Copeland was steeped in punk rock—the two hit it off and decided to form a band.

Interestingly, guitarist Andy Summers, who would become an integral part of The Police’s sound, was the last to join. Summers was older and more experienced than Sting and Copeland, having played with bands like The Animals. His addition brought a level of musical sophistication that helped define The Police’s unique sound. The trio’s unlikely mix of backgrounds and experiences became the secret sauce that set them apart from other bands of the era.

2. The Original Lineup Included a Fourth Member

Many fans might be surprised to learn that The Police originally started as a four-piece band. The fourth member was guitarist Henry Padovani, a Corsican musician who was part of the London punk scene. Padovani played with the band during their early gigs and even appeared on their debut single, "Fall Out."

However, the band quickly realized that they needed a more experienced guitarist to achieve the sound they were aiming for. When Andy Summers joined, Padovani was asked to leave, and The Police became the power trio we know today. Despite his brief tenure, Padovani’s time with The Police was pivotal in shaping their early sound and direction.

3. Sting’s Iconic Name Came from a Striped Sweater

Sting is one of the most recognizable names in music, but how he got that name is a fun story in itself. During his early days as a musician, Sting often wore a black-and-yellow striped sweater that made him look like a bumblebee. His bandmates started calling him “Sting,” and the name stuck. Although his real name is Gordon Sumner, he has gone by Sting for most of his career, and it has become an indelible part of his identity.

4. "Roxanne" Was Inspired by a Visit to a Brothel

One of The Police’s most famous songs, "Roxanne," has a backstory that’s as intriguing as the song itself. The band wrote "Roxanne" in 1978, inspired by a trip to Paris. While in the city, they stayed in a cheap hotel located in a red-light district. The song’s title character, Roxanne, was inspired by the prostitutes they saw in the area.

Sting wrote the song from the perspective of a man who falls in love with a prostitute but pleads with her to stop her trade. The emotional depth and unique subject matter made "Roxanne" an instant hit, and it remains one of The Police’s most enduring songs.

5. The Police’s Breakup Was Inevitable

Despite their massive success, tensions within The Police were high, and the band’s breakup seemed inevitable. By the time they released their final studio album, Synchronicity, in 1983, the band members were barely speaking to each other. Sting’s increasing control over the band’s creative direction, combined with personality clashes, led to a toxic environment.

The band officially split in 1986, after their final performance at the Amnesty International Conspiracy of Hope tour. Although they have reunited for special occasions, including a world tour in 2007-2008, the tensions that led to their initial breakup never fully dissipated.

6. The Band Members Went on to Have Diverse Careers

After The Police disbanded, the members pursued very different paths. Sting launched a successful solo career, blending rock, jazz, and world music influences. He also became an actor and activist, continuing to be a prominent figure in the music industry.

Stewart Copeland, known for his innovative drumming, ventured into film scoring and composing. He wrote soundtracks for movies like Wall Street and Rumble Fish, as well as the score for the popular video game Spyro the Dragon. He also formed the band Oysterhead with Primus’s Les Claypool and Phish’s Trey Anastasio.

Andy Summers, the band’s guitarist, also explored a solo career and collaborated with various artists. He delved into jazz and experimental music, showcasing his versatility as a musician.

7. The Police’s Legacy Lives On

The Police may have had a relatively short career, but their impact on music is undeniable. Their fusion of punk, reggae, and rock helped shape the sound of the late 1970s and 1980s, influencing countless bands that followed. Songs like "Every Breath You Take" and "Message in a Bottle" continue to be beloved by fans of all ages, cementing The Police’s status as one of the greatest bands of all time.

The Police’s Enduring Influence

The Police’s story is one of unlikely beginnings, creative tension, and undeniable talent. From their formation as a band of disparate influences to their eventual breakup, The Police have left an indelible mark on the music world. Their ability to blend genres, create unforgettable music, and maintain a sense of authenticity has made them legends in their own right.

For artists today, The Police’s career offers valuable lessons in creativity, collaboration, and the importance of staying true to one’s artistic vision. Despite the challenges they faced, The Police’s music continues to resonate, reminding us of the power of innovation and the timeless appeal of great songwriting.

One of the most iconic and widely recognised quotes from The Police's songs comes from their song "Message in a Bottle" (1979):

"Seems I'm not alone at being alone, a hundred billion castaways looking for a home."

This line reflects the universal human experience of loneliness and the search for connection. It's both poignant and relatable, offering a message of hope and solidarity, reminding us that even in isolation, we're not truly alone. "Message in a Bottle" is one of The Police's most beloved songs, known for its catchy melody and thoughtful lyrics.