Andy Summers and Stewart Copeland Sue Sting Over Police Royalties

Lawsuit unfolds over Police royalties, igniting old band tensions and revisiting classic hits.

The Chord of Discord: Police Royalties in the Spotlight

There’s always been something poetic about the band The Police — their rhythms, their chemistry, their hits. But apparently, not all is harmonious backstage. Recently, guitarist Andy Summers and drummer Stewart Copeland have taken a legal stance against their former bandmate Sting, suing him in London’s High Court over royalties they claim are owed to them.

This lawsuit digs into the heart of their shared legacy under the category of “general commercial contracts and arrangements,” with millions of dollars at stake. The fascinating wrinkle here? The lawsuit reportedly involves one of the 1980s’ most iconic tracks: “Every Breath You Take,” from their album Synchronicity.

Unpacking the Hit: Who Truly Wrote “Every Breath You Take”?

“Every Breath You Take” has been a signature song for Sting, credited to him as the sole co-writer since the song’s release. Yet, Summers has long voiced frustration, insisting he crafted the unforgettable guitar riff that drives the track but never received proper credit or compensation. This dispute has simmered for decades, and now it’s boiling over in court.

If you’re like me, “Every Breath You Take” brings back vivid memories of the '80s—those endless summer nights, the first time hearing the haunting guitar riff, and the bittersweet beauty of Sting’s voice. Knowing there’s a fight behind those notes adds a new, complex layer to the song’s legacy.

A Surprising Twist: Old Bandmates Collaborate Amid Legal Battles

As if the lawsuit wasn’t enough to stir intrigue, Sting and Andy Summers are slated to appear together on a fresh, jazzy rendition of the Police-era song “Murder by Numbers.” The track is part of jazz legend Christian McBride’s upcoming album Without Further Ado, Vol. 1, due out August 29.

This collaboration is particularly noteworthy because it’s the first time Police members have worked musically since their reunion tour in 2007-8 and since Sting appeared on Summers’ 1990 album Charming Snakes. It’s a reminder that creativity and conflict can sometimes coexist in curious ways.

Not the First Time “Every Breath You Take” Sparked Controversy

The song’s royalty saga isn’t new. Back in 2023, music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs revealed he pays Sting a staggering amount daily — reportedly $5,000 — for using a sample of “Every Breath You Take” in his 1997 tribute to Notorious B.I.G., “I’ll Be Missing You.”

If accurate, that translates to nearly $1.8 million a year flowing to Sting alone, though some sources suggest it’s closer to $741,000 annually. Sting once shared with Rolling Stone that Elton John was the one who tipped him off about the sample with the phrase, “You gotta hear it — you’re gonna be a millionaire.”

“You gotta hear it — you’re gonna be a millionaire.”
— Sting

Reflecting on it with a touch of humor and hindsight, Sting said the royalties helped put some of his kids through college, and despite the legal complexities, he and Diddy have remained on good terms. It’s a classic tale of how a timeless song can ripple through decades in unexpected ways.

The Enduring Legacy of The Police's Synchronicity

Synchronicity remains a high watermark in rock history — a blend of post-punk energy, reggae rhythms, and Sting’s poetic lyricism. The album’s timeless appeal stands in contrast to the legal wrangling over its ownership.

It’s fascinating to consider how the intersection of business, creativity, and personal relationships plays out with iconic bands. The Police’s saga is a vivid chapter in that ongoing story, reminding us that behind every song that moves millions, there’s a complex web of collaboration and conflict.

What’s Next for The Police?

With this lawsuit unfolding, fans and industry watchers are left wondering: How will this affect the band’s legacy and future collaborations? Will this legal drama inspire renewed interest in their catalog, or cast a shadow over the music we cherish?

As a longtime fan, I can’t help but hope that, beyond the courtroom battles, the spirit of The Police’s music continues to inspire and connect people worldwide.

FAQ

• Who are suing Sting over Police royalties?
  Andy Summers and Stewart Copeland have filed the lawsuit against Sting regarding royalties from Police music.
• What song is central to the lawsuit?
  “Every Breath You Take,” a massive hit from The Police’s Synchronicity album, is at the heart of the dispute.
• Has Sting collaborated with Police members recently?
  Yes, Sting and Andy Summers are featured together on a jazzy rework of “Murder by Numbers” on Christian McBride’s upcoming album.
• What is the controversy involving Sean “Diddy” Combs?
  Diddy reportedly pays Sting royalties for sampling “Every Breath You Take” in his tribute song, “I’ll Be Missing You.”
• When did The Police originally split?
  The Police officially disbanded in 1986 but reunited briefly for a tour in 2007-8.

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