Sting and Andy Summers Reunite To Cover A Police Song

For the first time in nearly 20 years, Sting and Andy Summers of The Police have reunited, and they’re putting a fresh spin on one of their classic songs. The duo teamed up for a brand-new version of “Murder by Numbers,” their 1983 track originally featured as a bonus cut on the Synchronicity album.

This updated take is a full-on big band makeover, led by bassist and bandleader Christian McBride. Sting handles vocals while Summers delivers his signature guitar work, setting the tone for McBride’s upcoming album Without Further Ado, Vol. 1, which drops on August 29.

Big Band Sound with Police Soul

McBride is clearly excited about this collaboration. “I am absolutely thrilled to have Sting and Andy Summers — two-thirds of one of the most influential bands in history, the Police — join me for one of their songs,” he said in a press release.

He also praised their continued talents: “Sting continues to evolve gracefully as an artist, and Andy still plays with the sophisticated fire and grit he has always possessed.” McBride also thanked Pedrito Martinez for adding that extra flair: “A huge thank you to both of them, as well as to the remarkable Pedrito Martinez, for bringing that special ‘thang’ that only he can provide.”

This marks Sting and Summers’ first project together since The Police’s blockbuster reunion tour in 2007–2008. They’ve crossed musical paths before, including Summers playing guitar on Sting’s 1987 solo album Nothing Like the Sun, and Sting guesting on Summers’ Charming Snakes (1990) and Green Chimneys (1999).

On Tour and In the Studio Again

Sting is currently on his 3.0 Tour in Europe, performing with a stripped-down three-piece band—just like the old Police days. A live album from this tour came out earlier this year.

He’ll be back in the U.S. starting November 7 in Hollywood, Florida, with the final show slated for November 24 in Chicago. Full tour details are up on Sting’s official website.

Meanwhile, Andy Summers recently dropped The Complete Recordings 1981–1984 with King Crimson’s Robert Fripp, featuring remastered albums and unreleased gems. It’s a great year for Police fans—and it just got even better.

Listen to the new version of “Murder by Numbers” in the official audio video below: