Slate Daily Feed Hit Parade | Music History and Music Trivia - If You Love Sting, Set Him Free Edition Part 2
Oct 31, 2025
Dive into the rich musical legacy of Sting, exploring the tension between him and his former bandmates over iconic hits like "Every Breath You Take." Discover his evolution from The Police to solo stardom, with genre-blending works and surprising collaborations. Learn about his poignant political commentary in songs like "Russians," and how his influence permeates modern music. From unexpected chart-toppers to his continued relevance in hip-hop, Sting's journey is a fascinating blend of artistry and resilience.
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One-Hour Guest Vocal Turn Became Lucrative
- Sting added harmony vocals to Dire Straits' "Money for Nothing" while vacationing in Montserrat.
- His brief vocal riff earned him a co-writing credit and hefty royalties from the album's massive sales.
A Hit That Replied To A Past Hit
- "If You Love Somebody, Set Them Free" was written as an antidote to the possessiveness in "Every Breath You Take."
- The single crossed pop and R&B charts, showing Sting's broad stylistic reach.
Highbrow Pop Tailored For CD-Era Audiences
- Nothing Like the Sun positioned Sting as a highbrow pop auteur blending worldbeat and social themes.
- The label pushed an accessible single, but the album mostly catered to upscale, CD-era listeners.
