10 Hidden Career Facts Of The Police

Led by the charismatic Gordon Matthew Sumner, better known as Sting, The Police emerged as one of the most successful British bands in the United States. Sting, who earned his nickname from a black and yellow striped rugby jersey resembling a wasp, brought a distinctive presence to the group. Born on October 2, 1951, in Tyne and Wear, Sting was joined by drummer Stewart Copeland, born July 16, 1952, in Alexandria, Egypt, and guitarist Henry Padovani, later replaced by the seasoned Andy Summers. Summers, born December 31, 1942, in Lancashire, had already built a substantial career in rock, having played with bands like The Animals and Zoot Money.

Varied Musical Origins
The trio’s different musical backgrounds added to the band’s unique sound. Sting combined his early passion for jazz with teaching, working in Catholic schools before pursuing music full-time. Copeland, who had an early exposure to music through his father’s work with Glenn Miller, studied at the University of California, Berkeley, and played with the progressive rock band Curved Air. Summers, having moved to London in 1963, formed Zoot Money’s Big Roll Band and later joined The Animals. His extensive experience added a mature sound to The Police’s music.

The Police Disbanded at Their Peak of Success
The Police reached their zenith in the early 1980s, becoming a dominant force in the music industry. Sadly, they disbanded in 1984 at the height of their success, having become one of the most influential bands of the ’80s.

Egos Led to Their Split
The band’s decision to part ways was driven more by personal dynamics than any formal announcement. “It was just the normal result of relationships hanging by a thread,” reflecting the strain despite their immense success. The breakup marked the beginning of solo careers for the members, with Sting achieving notable success in both music and film, making him a significant figure in rock history.

The Police Was Founded by Copeland
Contrary to popular belief, The Police was not founded by Sting but by Stewart Copeland. The band’s origins trace back to 1977 when Sting, Copeland, and Andy Summers were part of Strontium 90. Their album, Strontium 90: Police Academy, laid the groundwork for what would later become The Police.

Copeland’s Father Had a Secret CIA Career
An intriguing fact about Copeland is his connection to the CIA through his father, who was a spy. Stewart’s father, who had a musical background as a trumpeter, lived a double life that explained the family’s frequent relocations.

The Loss of Sting’s Parents
Sting’s early life was marked by personal tragedy, losing both his parents. His mother was just 53 and his dad was 57. The band was at the height of its success during that time. Because they were on tour, Sting missed both his parents’ funeral.

Sting’s Memoir: Broken Music
Sting also penned his autobiography, Broken Music, in 2003, offering a reflective look at his life and career. His book explores the formative experiences that shaped him into the iconic musician he is today.

“Roxanne”: A Hit Born from an Accident
The Police’s song “Roxanne” has an interesting backstory. During its recording, Sting accidentally sat on a piano, creating an unintended sound that was captured and followed by his laughter. This spontaneous moment was included in the final track, giving the song a unique introduction. Andy Summers contributed a memorable guitar arrangement, ensuring the song’s instant recognizability.

The Story Behind “Don’t Stand So Close to Me”
Another significant track, “Don’t Stand So Close to Me,” explores the theme of inappropriate attraction between a teacher and student, drawing from Sting’s experiences as a former teacher. “How I kept my hands off them, I don’t know,” he remarked, emphasizing the song’s playful take on rock star fantasies. The band reunited in 1986 to re-record their hits, but old rivalries resurfaced, and only “Don’t Stand So Close to Me ’86” was completed.

Sting’s Ventures into Acting
Sting has appeared in over a dozen films, starting with his debut in Quadrophenia. He also starred in notable 1980s movies like Dune and Stormy Monday. Although he has since reduced his acting pursuits, his involvement in film remains a notable aspect of his career.