Sting, born Gordon Matthew Thomas Sumner on October 2, 1951, in Wallsend, England, is a renowned musician, singer, songwriter, and actor. He earned the nickname "Sting" from his habit of wearing a black-and-yellow striped sweater resembling a bee. Before his breakthrough, he played in various bands and worked as a schoolteacher.
1977-1984: The Police
Sting gained fame as the lead vocalist and bassist for the rock band The Police, formed in 1977 with Stewart Copeland and Andy Summers. The band became one of the most successful acts of the late 1970s and early 1980s.
Key Albums and Highlights
"Outlandos d'Amour" (1978) Featured hits "Roxanne" and "Can't Stand Losing You."
"Reggatta de Blanc" (1979) Included "Message in a Bottle" and "Walking on the Moon."
"Zenyatta Mondatta" (1980) Contained "Don't Stand So Close to Me" and "De Do Do Do, De Da Da Da."
"Ghost in the Machine" (1981) Produced "Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic."
"Synchronicity" (1983) Their final album included the iconic "Every Breath You Take," which won Song of the Year at the Grammys.
1985-1999: Solo Career and Continued Success
Sting's solo career began with the album "The Dream of the Blue Turtles" (1985), featuring jazz musicians Branford Marsalis and Kenny Kirkland. This album was a commercial success and included hits like "If You Love Somebody Set Them Free" and "Russians."
Key Albums and Highlights
"The Dream of the Blue Turtles" (1985) Marked his successful transition to a solo artist.
"...Nothing Like the Sun" (1987) Included "Englishman in New York" and "Fragile."
"Ten Summoner's Tales" (1993) Featured hits "Fields of Gold" and "If I Ever Lose My Faith in You."
"Brand New Day" (1999) The title track and "Desert Rose" were major hits; won two Grammys.
2000-2020: Musical Exploration and Collaboration
Sting continued to explore various musical styles, including classical, jazz, and world music. He collaborated with numerous artists and remained a significant figure in the music industry.
Key Albums and Highlights
"Sacred Love" (2003) Blended rock, pop, and electronic influences.
"Songs from the Labyrinth" (2006) A collection of Elizabethan songs.
"57th & 9th" (2016) A return to his rock roots.
"My Songs" (2019) Reimagined versions of his hits.
Grammy Awards
Sting has won 17 Grammy Awards. Key Wins...
Song of the Year for "Every Breath You Take" (1983, with The Police).
Best Male Pop Vocal Performance for "If I Ever Lose My Faith in You" (1994).
Best Pop Vocal Album for "Brand New Day" (1999).
Famous Songs and Compositions
"Roxanne"
"Every Breath You Take"
"Englishman in New York"
"Fields of Gold"
"Desert Rose"
Collaborations and Cover Versions
Sting has collaborated with artists such as
Shaggy ("44/876" album, 2018)
Mary J. Blige
His songs have been covered by numerous artists, showcasing his broad influence.
Quotes
Sting on music
Music is its own reward.
On songwriting
I write the music, produce it, and the band plays within my vision."
Sting is known for his wry sense of humor and candid interviews. He once quipped, reflecting on the enduring relevance of his music.
A good song takes on more meaning as the years pass
Personal Life and Gossip
Sting is married to actress and producer Trudie Styler. The couple is known for their philanthropic efforts, including environmental causes and human rights. Sting's personal life has occasionally been the subject of media attention, particularly his practice of tantric sex, which he has discussed openly.
Legacy and Influence
Sting's contributions to music, both as a member of The Police and as a solo artist, are immense. His ability to blend various musical genres and his distinctive voice have made him a lasting figure in the music industry. He continues to tour and record, inspiring new generations of musicians.
Sting Albums
See also The Police albums
Songs: Every Breath you Take, Roxanne, Message in a bottle
Gear: Fender Jazz Bass