As a percussionist myself, I think it’s fair to say Stewart Copeland is one of the most technically proficient drummers alive today and definitely ranks in the top 10 rock drummers of all time. Don’t forget, like Rush, this is a band with three members so all that sound is coming from a bass, a lead guitar, and drums. Copeland is working overtime in almost every police song in much the way Neil Peart did for Rush.
I dont see Copeland as "technical"...his hat work was epic and way ahead of its time, extremely influential, but he played (composed) perfect parts for The Police tunes...
Yes, a very progressive drummer (and even played in an actual prog band before he was in The Police, Curved Air). And not only that, a great composer in his own right. I happen to love “Does Everyone Stare (The Way I Do)”, and also his soundtracks to Rumblefish and the original The Equalizer tv show scoring.
They are one of my favorite bands and music. They have been around since the late 70s up to about 2003. They didn't stay together as a band as long as we all would have liked but with Sting being such a big talent he's still going. Stewart Copeland still does music as well composing. But yeah if you missed them when they came up it seems like they haven't been around like other bands of their time.
not true if you were thinking of braking the music world as a soloist or band if you do this and your are successful at this your life expectancy is 5 years tops back then to day 2 years times change and you fall out of style guns roses beetles the police 5 years they split or die 5 years tops then now as me i am a writer musician after all this ive been thru from 70s if you get lucky it last short and fast years latter you get a rebirth from people trying to relive memory's of there past witch you get royalties it happens so quick and is just as its short in a nut shell that's reality of hitting the charts or even touching near the charts reality of how good music can ever be and song might be remmeberd but you are a fog
As someone who has heard probably nearly every version of every Police song over the last 40 years, nothing is cooler than seeing someone enjoy it all for the first time :)
The Reggae influence in British rock in the late 70s early 80s was significant. The Clash had a lot of Reggae beats and you also had the Ska trend with bans like The English Beat, The Specials, The Selector and Madness as well as many others. On an aside Stewart Copeland was in what I call a mutant supergroup called Oysterhead with Les Claypool of Primus and Trey Anastasio of the band Phish.
Absolutely correct about the reggae inflections in British rock during that period. It's worth noting that there had been an influx of Caribbean immigrants in the preceding decades and they mixed with many working class Brits, sharing their music and culture.
The Police were another three piece band where each member was a master at their craft, drums, guitar and bass all doing amazing individual things that all add to an incredible whole. Rush and Cream are similar. ✌️
King of Pain, Spirits in the Material World or Don’t Stand so Close to me (one of my first 45s) get my vote for next time. The one thing about the Police is that they were extremely innovative and versatile in terms of genres.
I just love you both & your cute little family. I'm 60 years old & I just love how you appreciate all this music from my era. I thank God that I was born in the 60's!! God bless you!!
The way Stewart Copeland can play a simple beat but has so much character to his drumming. In this song he hits the snare just twice. His use of echo, where he places his notes, just genius
If any song can be called a “mood”, this song is a mood. They created a sparse, airy, spacey, echoey sound like being on the moon. But really it’s about feeling high from love. Walkin back from your house. Stewart Copeland is my fave drummer of all time.
Andy Summers had been studying classical guitar before joining the Police and had been recording with blues and jazz artists. His use of a chorus pedal and an Echoplex EP-3 which became so influential, synched up with Sting's ability to harmonize with the guitar lead, then add in Copeland's jazz/reggae beats and the 80's had a new sound. Also, the lyrics to this song are relatable -- when you are in love, you feel weightless. On the moon, each step is bigger but in slow motion, which is reflected in the beat and space between of the chords. I just love it!
Summers is often forgotten when people talk about the Police but he was just as important to their unique sound as the other two, and is a very good musician.
The Police have hits for days, Should check out Don't Stand So Close To Me, Murder By Numbers, Driven To Tears, So Lonely, Invisible Sun, Can't Stand Losing You, Tea In The Sahara & King Of Pain
One of their best songs to which the two of you, as teachers, will relate is 'Don't Stand So Close to Me.' Sting is a former English teacher. Speaking of Sting, he has several hits as a solo artist -- 'If You Love Somebody, Set Them Free,' 'All This Time,' 'Fortress Around Your Heart,' and many more.
The drummer, Stewart Copeland, might be one of the best drummer ever. Saw them live and it was one of the best show i ever saw, Andy Summer, the guitarist, is much more expressive live, he's awesome too while Sting is playing a fretless bass while singing which is super hard. Reggae and punk are their main inspiration which is weird because none of them were playing reggae before the band formed. This is my favorite band, not sure why. Never get tired to listen to them.
My favourite band growing up! I'd recommend "Synchronicity" for your next song. Their last album had so many great songs on it - very different from their earlier work, but then again - every little thing they did was magic.
Hearing this again and seeing this 1979 video/song made me remember how they fit right in with the big ska revival of that year. You'd hear this song played with songs by the Beat, the Specials, Madness, the Selecter, etc. Y'all would really like the Beat especially, I think.
Stewart lived in the Middle East as a child (Egypt and Beirut) - his mother was an archaeologist and father worked for the CIA. You can really hear in his playing the influences of those countries in developing his style as it’s so unique.
From 1978 until 1985 they were the hardest working band in the World. They were constantly on tour, American tours, World tours, Japanese Tours, European tours. It really burnt them out. So as with any high flying act they crashed and burned out.
1 of my favorite bands. The best 3 person band in history. I saw them about 15 yrs ago, & they were phenomenal. All of their albums are great with many hits. Love their reggae/new wave sound. Enjoy the Police rabbit 🐇 hole.
@stickman how I forgot about Cream is a crime!! You're right!! I knew Rush would come up. They were very talented. I wasn't a big fan & only know their biggest hits. 🎸
@@Spo-Dee-O-Dee I did not forget about Cream, I would pick Rush over them. Again both are great, but I would still pick Rush and it isn't close. Also, IMO Baker was great, but Peart is the Greatest Rock Drummer of all time. Period. Again, it is all personal choice.
Those drums. The groove is deep. The creativity is out of its mind, but tasteful. There is so much, but not too much. My life is better because of this drum track. And just a cool tune anyway. Simple and spacious. Love The Police.
a lot of younger people might not realize how big they were, but when I was in Jr High and High School in the 80's, they were just about as big as it got, all their studio albums to me are badass and will match up with just about anyone's first 5 IMO
if you don't know how good the drums are it's almost hard to notice because they fit in so perfectly. if you listen for them it's actually a mind blowing experience every song. he really is a master.
I recommend some of the Police's deeper cuts: Driven to Tears; When the World is Running You Down, You Make the Best of What's Still Around; Murder By Numbers; and Behind My Camel.
The Police are brilliant musicians/lyricists. You guys are in for a treat! Here are a few other songs. Darkness, I Burn For You. Don't Stand So Close 86, Tea In The Sahara, I Can't Stand Losing You. Perfection!
Copeland’s drum work in this is outstanding. Amber much of The Police music is centered around reggae. Keep digging. “Can’t Stand Losing” is an awesome example of a reggae banger
@@generoberts9151 You have that privilege. I’m very aware of cultural appropriation (I’m looking at you, Nothing’s Gonna Break My Stride!) but I do agree music should be off the table.
@@TahoeNevada Thanks, I remember when Living Color hit the scene and no one I knew said hey , that’s “Black Rock” including me. I’ve always looked at music that way. Exceptions maybe stuff that is totally dominated of course
I know it's not going to get a lot of requests, but you guys really should react to The Beat (sometimes known as The English Beat). Start with Too Nice to Talk To, and then move on to Mirror in the Bathroom. You will not be disappointed. Their music is superb.
I remember being on 35 North at 3 in the morning driving through Ft. Worth and this song was playing and i remember it fit perfect! Every time I hear this song it transports me back to a great moment in time! Thank you for jogging my memory! ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
I saw The Police in 1980-81, on the Zenyatta Mondatta tour. I still remember how they got the whole stadium chanting with them on this song. and some others, So, imagine 50,000 people chanting "Oh yo yo yo..." along with the band, and this infectious rhythm. Awesome!
Jay & Amber My friends and I have seen The Police in concert during their only reunion tour on May 17th of 2008. The Police played all their greatest hits that Saturday. I still have my concert ticket from that day.
This song is a "less is more" masterpiece. There is almost no music being played, but it is so complete and the reggae feel is very definite despite the minimalist performance. The Police were a revelation when they started, and grew from fun & quirky to very complex and mysterious (like King of Pain and Wrapped Around Your Finger) in just a few years. Sting's solo career went more to jazz, but ever more complex and creative. Listen to Jeremiah Blues Part 1, a deep album cut from The Soul Cages.
Several years ago Sting was playing close by and i decided to go to a local airport thinking he'd fly out of there after his show. Well, he did. And the private gate the car had to go through to get to the tarmac was not opened yet so their cars had to stop. I was standing there with a tshirt I got from a concert in 2000 as well as many cd covers. I leaned towards my friend and said "if he rolls down that window I'm gonna sh*t my pants". Two seconds later the window rolled down and he was right there and told us to come up to the car. Signed my shirt and numerous cd covers. Was an amazing experience!
Reggae had become popular in Britain by the late 1970s, so its influence can be heard in the music of a number of British rock groups, such as the Police and 10 cc ("Dreadlock Holiday"). In the US, rock radio did their best to lock out Reggae (New Wave also), so there were only a few adherents who had to seek it out, and its influence on pop music in the US was almost nonexistent. We only heard Reggae beats from British bands that got popular here (like the Police) who incorporated elements in their music.
SPACE ~ JAM ! These guys CHANGED the sonic landscape permanently and _FOREVER_ for us back in the late '70's! London was grim, grey and filthy full of tension. Then The Police came out of our little transistor radios and so did optimism .... ... .
Back in the day I heard a story on American Top 40 that this was the first Police song that Sting heard a random person singing without it being played on the radio at the time. According to the story, it brought tears of happiness to his eyes. Not sure if it's true, but pretty cool if it was. The first few Police albums were reggae influenced. "Voices inside my head" is a good follow up for this one.
@@lynnhettrick7588, they had. However, in 1986, a group of artists were touring to benefit Amnesty International with the Conspiracy of Hope tour. U2, Bryan Adams, Peter Gabriel, Lou Reed, and Sting. By the Atlanta show, the other two members of the Police joined Sting for the show. They played all their Police music. They stayed reunited for three shows and then decided they really still didn’t like each other, and they broke up again.
When I was 4 back in 85, I loved this song. One night when I was tucked in bed there were some drunk guys walking down the street singing this at the top of their lungs. I especially remember them singing the part at 6:25 and it sounded so eery. Scared my little heart out. Never forgot it
This is my No.1 song. I grew up in the early 80s and my parents loved The Police, David Bowie, Alan Parsons Project, etc. a wonderful song that just reminds me of South Africa where I was born and raised.
Sting said he wrote this song when he was drunk in a hotel room and kept saying he was "Walking round the Room" in a dizzy drunken haze...something to that effect😂😂😂❤
They are heavily influenced by reggae. The Police come out of the nexus of UK punk, ska and reggae. The difference between them and many of the other bands that come out of that period is that they are extremely accomplished musicians and song writers. So they added a level of craftsmanship, finesse, and creativity that carried them past the genres.
Interestingly enough, the Police had a significant influence on Rush during this period (which one can hear in certain songs on Permanent Waves, Moving Pictures, and Signals (in production from 1979-1982). Examples include: - Vital Signs - Digital Man - New World Man - Spirit of Radio - Distant Early Warning Drummers Stewart Copeland and Neil Peart would become close friends in the proceeding years as well.
R.S, In many GOAT drummer polls, Peart's always number 1..But Copeland always gets top2- 3 rank in all of them! He spent lots of time learning that style in places like St. Thomas, Jamacia and Barbados. When you see him play, he's loose as a rubber band and goes through 6-7 pairs of sticks a show.
Please you need to hear The Beds too Big Without You -- another great Reggae --- Also for a different side there is Bring on the Night --- If you ever listen to the Spyro the Dragon music soundtrack you will be blown away by the unmistakable compositions by Stuart Copeland on his drums -- Its so fun and it really adds to the game--- and its loaded with his original tunes
The Bed's Too Big Without You was on repeat after a particularly painful breakup in the late 80's. Jeesh. I'm surprised my roomie didn't smash my boombox.
In the beginning they were known as a blue-eyed reggae band but were really so much more. Amber, I love the way that you get lost in the music and allow it to carry you away. Of you haven't listened to it yet, y'all would love Wrapped Around Your Finger". It's my fave. This makes me miss when MTV actually showed music videos. Great times!
I love this song! Takes me back to much simpler days when we had some really great music 🎶 The Police, The Pretenders, The Cure, Talking Heads......I miss those days 😞
One of the most classic Police songs! To this day, I will never forget the first time I played this record on my home turn table. I had just purchased a $100 stylus -- the needle that plays in the record grooves -- and put it on the tone-arm. The first song I put on to test-drive this hi-fidelity piece of equipment was "Walking On the Moon". When the song starts and Andy Summer's shimmering guitar chords ring out...I was like, "OMG, that sounds awesome!" I heard, immediately, where all that money had gone. I had never heard a record play so pristinely! This was about 1984, I think. Ah, so long ago, but I still remember what it sounded like. Great music by one of the best bands of all-time.
Such a vibe! Yeah Rob! In the pre-chorus, Sting builds the bottom, Andy Summers hits those spacial chords in contrast to Sting. Really nice! Well, and it's a power trio. Stewart Copeland fills in the blanks. Notice how Sting is singing high, but filling the bottom with the bassline. Just Beautiful!
Sting has said that this song started when he was drunk in a hotel room in Germany and was walking in it singing I'm walking in the room..... eventually it progressed to what we are listening now....
I have always liked the Police. All of them are gifted. For me Andy Summers is often overlooked. His guitar use is a unique and Stings vocals and Stuart's drum playing. Andy's guitar is like the gravy in a roast dinner in that if brings out the best in the other two...
Stewart Copeland has great solo albums.. My favorite is The Rhythmatist. He went through AFRICA with a tape recorder and recorded African tribes and rhythms and came back and added his drums and music. Very eclectic and a lot of great music and fun..
Now it's time for Synchronicity 2, Can't Stand Losing You, De Do Do Do De Da Da Da, Invisible Sun, Don't Stand So Close To Me, So Lonely, King Of Pain and Spirits In The Material World.
Andy Summers’ playing on this early hit by the Police is a perfect example of how a player doesn’t need to blast or fill every space to make an impression. Instead, Summers impresses with his shimmering textures, inventive suspended chords and restraint, leaving plenty of room for the rhythm section to drive the groove. This approach also was effective in the increasingly larger venues the Police were playing in the late Seventies as their popularity began to grow, creating a sound that resonated throughout the hall. The key to Summers’ especially sparkling treble comes courtesy of two classic stomp boxes: an MXR Dyna Comp and an Electro-Harmonix Electric Mistress. The compressor gives consistent body to each note in the chords while the Electric Mistress is dialed to a chorus-like effect instead of the usual flanging sweep. An Echoplex set to a single repeat, with the echo volume the same as the dry volume, creates a simple rhythmic effect with a characteristic feel courtesy of overlapping resonant sustain that can’t be duplicated simply by playing two strokes in quick succession.
Eclectic and electric, these seriously talented musicians literally changed the course of modern music. Voted most influential band of all time - (probably Rolling Stone, or the New Musical Express) I wouldn't go that far myself, but love the music.
Flashback to the 80s when I started marching senior drum & bugle corps and we rehearsed the show in an abandoned strip mall parking lot that had fallen into disrepair. A couple marchers, on blind back up moves, ended up falling into a couple of the several pot holes in the parking lot. We started singing to this song "I hope my leg don't break, marching on the moon." Good times (especially because I wasn't one of the dudes that went butt over teakettle).
I love the song! Sting is really showcasing strong vocals here in this song. You can really hear the Ska influence too! Stewart Copeland is one of the best drummers in rock music!❤❤
Police were heavenly influenced by reggae, you were right there. The magic of The Police is that they made very accessible popular commercial music but at the same time completely unique and original. Two bars of The Police and you know it's them.
Top 5: Walking on the moon, Spirits in the material world, When The World Is Running Down, you Make The Best Of What's Still Around, Every little thing, King of pain.
In this particular band all these guys were professionals, like they had classical education for the starters and Steward Copelands drumming with this traditional style was a fire...
As a percussionist myself, I think it’s fair to say Stewart Copeland is one of the most technically proficient drummers alive today and definitely ranks in the top 10 rock drummers of all time. Don’t forget, like Rush, this is a band with three members so all that sound is coming from a bass, a lead guitar, and drums. Copeland is working overtime in almost every police song in much the way Neil Peart did for Rush.
Thank you, thank you, thank you... Nary an "underrated" or "greatest ever"...
Saw "The Police" in concert when I was in college. Watching Stewart Copeland the entire time - UNBELIEVABLE behind the kit!!
100% agree
I dont see Copeland as "technical"...his hat work was epic and way ahead of its time, extremely influential, but he played (composed) perfect parts for The Police tunes...
Their song Driven to Tears has some great drum work on it too!
The cymbal work in this song is elite level. Stewart is the most creative drummer ever.
He really is 👏👏👏
So underrated!
Definitely in my top five
No plays the cymbals the way he did.
Yes, a very progressive drummer (and even played in an actual prog band before he was in The Police, Curved Air). And not only that, a great composer in his own right. I happen to love “Does Everyone Stare (The Way I Do)”, and also his soundtracks to Rumblefish and the original The Equalizer tv show scoring.
This band strung so many hits from such a short tenure. Stewart Copeland is a drummer extraordinaire
Yes, he is!!
Copeland is a great, as is Sting as a bass player/vocalist/song writer.
every album cover to cover.
I LOVE The Police. They weren’t around for very long, but they created amazing music. All three guys are so talented.
They are one of my favorite bands and music. They have been around since the late 70s up to about 2003. They didn't stay together as a band as long as we all would have liked but with Sting being such a big talent he's still going. Stewart Copeland still does music as well composing. But yeah if you missed them when they came up it seems like they haven't been around like other bands of their time.
The Police openly admitted Reggae was a key part of their sound. For more, see their song "So Lonely", another Reggae sounding one
not true if you were thinking of braking the music world as a soloist or band if you do this and your are successful at this your life expectancy is 5 years tops back then to day 2 years times change and you fall out of style guns roses beetles the police 5 years they split or die 5 years tops then now as me i am a writer musician after all this ive been thru from 70s if you get lucky it last short and fast years latter you get a rebirth from people trying to relive memory's of there past witch you get royalties it happens so quick and is just as its short in a nut shell that's reality of hitting the charts or even touching near the charts reality of how good music can ever be and song might be remmeberd but you are a fog
As someone who has heard probably nearly every version of every Police song over the last 40 years, nothing is cooler than seeing someone enjoy it all for the first time :)
Yes having heard this when it came out as a teenager
The Police- "Spirits In The Material World". Go get it...
The Reggae influence in British rock in the late 70s early 80s was significant. The Clash had a lot of Reggae beats and you also had the Ska trend with bans like The English Beat, The Specials, The Selector and Madness as well as many others. On an aside Stewart Copeland was in what I call a mutant supergroup called Oysterhead with Les Claypool of Primus and Trey Anastasio of the band Phish.
They should listen to some ska. English Beat has tons of great songs.
The Selector is the only band I didn't recognize off that list...off I go to check them out!
I have suggested “save it for Later” in the past
Absolutely correct about the reggae inflections in British rock during that period. It's worth noting that there had been an influx of Caribbean immigrants in the preceding decades and they mixed with many working class Brits, sharing their music and culture.
As someone who grew up in London in the 70s and 80s we were surrounded by Jamaican culture and music. It had a huge effect on British music.
Copeland is one of the most underrated drummers there is, his snare sound and rhythms are incredible !
Jay & Amber, You'll love their "Spirits In The Material World", "So Lonely" and "Synchronicity II" and many more!!!!
I love “Synchronicity II”!
Walking On The Moon symbolized the feeling of being in love and walking on air….kinda like how I feel when I hear this song 😊
To me it's a summer day in Australia 1979
¡Igualmente!
The Police were another three piece band where each member was a master at their craft, drums, guitar and bass all doing amazing individual things that all add to an incredible whole. Rush and Cream are similar. ✌️
That’s why they were called Cream
King of Pain, Spirits in the Material World or Don’t Stand so Close to me (one of my first 45s) get my vote for next time. The one thing about the Police is that they were extremely innovative and versatile in terms of genres.
Nobody plays the high hat like Stewart Copeland.
Such an amazing Drummer.
... and ride crown.
I just love you both & your cute little family. I'm 60 years old & I just love how you appreciate all this music from my era. I thank God that I was born in the 60's!! God bless you!!
Same here, just turned 60. The Police were one of the most creative band of the 80s
Sting and the Police were all that for me and yes, I took just turned 61. Unfortunately we'll never get that type of music again
Drummers love this song. He records it with a slight delay, but there are videos that show how to perform the delay as well. Fancy drumming!
The way Stewart Copeland can play a simple beat but has so much character to his drumming. In this song he hits the snare just twice. His use of echo, where he places his notes, just genius
If any song can be called a “mood”, this song is a mood. They created a sparse, airy, spacey, echoey sound like being on the moon. But really it’s about feeling high from love. Walkin back from your house. Stewart Copeland is my fave drummer of all time.
I grew up on country, but The Police is the only group where I purchased all of their albums. Still have them 35 years later.
Andy Summers had been studying classical guitar before joining the Police and had been recording with blues and jazz artists. His use of a chorus pedal and an Echoplex EP-3 which became so influential, synched up with Sting's ability to harmonize with the guitar lead, then add in Copeland's jazz/reggae beats and the 80's had a new sound. Also, the lyrics to this song are relatable -- when you are in love, you feel weightless. On the moon, each step is bigger but in slow motion, which is reflected in the beat and space between of the chords. I just love it!
The only other person to use the Echoplex so creatively was John Martyn, and he used the original tape loop version as well as the EP3
It's actually an Electric Mistress flanger, not a chorus pedal.
This song gives me the same feels as Singing In The Rain. That all-is-right-with-the-world feeling.
Summers is often forgotten when people talk about the Police but he was just as important to their unique sound as the other two, and is a very good musician.
@@arphod Cool!!
The Police have hits for days, Should check out Don't Stand So Close To Me, Murder By Numbers, Driven To Tears, So Lonely, Invisible Sun, Can't Stand Losing You, Tea In The Sahara & King Of Pain
Yes! Tea in the Sahara... so cool and underrated! Never seen a reactor on that song yet.... would love thiers!
@@arthurplane9682 I agree, Tea In The Sahara & Invisible Sun, both underrated but great songs
Heck, yeah!! All those!
Yes defenitely,they react on Wrapped around your finger recently.
One of their best songs to which the two of you, as teachers, will relate is 'Don't Stand So Close to Me.' Sting is a former English teacher.
Speaking of Sting, he has several hits as a solo artist -- 'If You Love Somebody, Set Them Free,' 'All This Time,' 'Fortress Around Your Heart,' and many more.
The drummer, Stewart Copeland, might be one of the best drummer ever. Saw them live and it was one of the best show i ever saw, Andy Summer, the guitarist, is much more expressive live, he's awesome too while Sting is playing a fretless bass while singing which is super hard.
Reggae and punk are their main inspiration which is weird because none of them were playing reggae before the band formed.
This is my favorite band, not sure why. Never get tired to listen to them.
My favourite band growing up! I'd recommend "Synchronicity" for your next song. Their last album had so many great songs on it - very different from their earlier work, but then again - every little thing they did was magic.
I second this emotion.
I think SYNCHRONICITY II is better.
Synchronicity 2 is better
Hearing this again and seeing this 1979 video/song made me remember how they fit right in with the big ska revival of that year. You'd hear this song played with songs by the Beat, the Specials, Madness, the Selecter, etc. Y'all would really like the Beat especially, I think.
Definitely an overlooked genre by many. Hopefully, they'll check some out!
I keep begging Amber and Jay to go down the Ska rabbit hole ✨✨✨
Very happy to see Stewart Copeland get so much love! It's well deserved!!
Stewart lived in the Middle East as a child (Egypt and Beirut) - his mother was an archaeologist and father worked for the CIA. You can really hear in his playing the influences of those countries in developing his style as it’s so unique.
From 1978 until 1985 they were the hardest working band in the World. They were constantly on tour, American tours, World tours, Japanese Tours, European tours. It really burnt them out. So as with any high flying act they crashed and burned out.
1 of my favorite bands. The best 3 person band in history. I saw them about 15 yrs ago, & they were phenomenal. All of their albums are great with many hits. Love their reggae/new wave sound. Enjoy the Police rabbit 🐇 hole.
As much as as I enjoy The Police and since there beginnings. But no Rush as a say in best 3 member band... And IMHO it's not close.
@@raybernal6829 It's all a matter of personal preference. but I have to agree with you, RUSH wins the best three piece band award hands down.
Agreed.
@stickman how I forgot about Cream is a crime!! You're right!! I knew Rush would come up. They were very talented. I wasn't a big fan & only know their biggest hits. 🎸
@@Spo-Dee-O-Dee I did not forget about Cream, I would pick Rush over them. Again both are great, but I would still pick Rush and it isn't close. Also, IMO Baker was great, but Peart is the Greatest Rock Drummer of all time. Period. Again, it is all personal choice.
I was 15 years old and in school, loved this song!
My favourite group at the time, and I still love them!
The Police are heavily reggae influenced, what you are hearing in their songs is a heavy accent on the 2nd and 4th beats of a 4/4 time signature.
Also hear Stewart playing on the 7/8 and 12/11 beat pattern. Brilliant fusion of Kenyan, Thai, and Jamaican cultural schemes.
Those drums. The groove is deep. The creativity is out of its mind, but tasteful. There is so much, but not too much. My life is better because of this drum track. And just a cool tune anyway. Simple and spacious. Love The Police.
Incredible song. These guys are in my top five favorite bands Highlights the genius of Stewart Copeland, one of my all-time favorite drummers.
I feel fortunate to have seen them in 1982 during the Ghost in the Machine tour. Phenomenal band. Spirits in the Material World is a must.
I’m jealous! I just barely missed seeing them as a group. I did see Sting twice after he was solo.
I hot to see their last tour at the Hollywood Bowl race track. Opening bands, The Thompson Twins, The Fixx. And Berlin. Fantastic show.
a lot of younger people might not realize how big they were, but when I was in Jr High and High School in the 80's, they were just about as big as it got, all their studio albums to me are badass and will match up with just about anyone's first 5 IMO
if you don't know how good the drums are it's almost hard to notice because they fit in so perfectly. if you listen for them it's actually a mind blowing experience every song. he really is a master.
Don't be afraid to start sentences with a capital letter. I promise, it won't hurt.
@@keithrfield capitalization in a text, chat, or comment section, is for suckers.
@@syx3s Actually, it is for literates. Are you an illiterate, or just want to come off as one?
*Sting* - *_Fragile_* a masterpiece
Beutiful song
Absolutely. I probably annoyed my college roomie playing that, but the lyrics and music both were just so touching, I often "had" to hear it.
Great song! Another favorite is "Synchronicity II" which is another totally different side of The Police but you know it's them.
Love that song
Damn, Stuart Copeland is so good. Chills every time
Stewart Copeland is my all time favorite drummer.
Stu is my god drummer for ever and ever
I recommend some of the Police's deeper cuts: Driven to Tears; When the World is Running You Down, You Make the Best of What's Still Around; Murder By Numbers; and Behind My Camel.
West Indian music (Reggae and Ska) was a HUGE influence on many UK bands in this period. Dub influenced post punk music and leg to Gothic Rock.
The Police are brilliant musicians/lyricists. You guys are in for a treat! Here are a few other songs. Darkness, I Burn For You. Don't Stand So Close 86, Tea In The Sahara, I Can't Stand Losing You. Perfection!
I prefer the 86 version of “Don’t Stand So Close To Me” off their Greatest Hits compilation over the original album release.
In a three-piece, there’s nowhere for anyone to hide. Each member has to BRING IT, and be nothing less than a virtuoso on their instrument.
Agreed, and all three members were/are!
PERFECT band for a rainy day! And this is my favorite song from them
The reggae vibe is a fundamental part of The Police sound.
Sweet! The other "bouncy" Police song! The first being "Message in a Bottle" Sting certainly can mimic reggae well!
Copeland’s drum work in this is outstanding. Amber much of The Police music is centered around reggae. Keep digging.
“Can’t Stand Losing” is an awesome example of a reggae banger
The Police were definitely “white Reggae”. But, they were also respectful of the genre.
@@TahoeNevada I’d like to think Reggae is colorblind despite its origins
@@generoberts9151 You have that privilege.
I’m very aware of cultural appropriation (I’m looking at you, Nothing’s Gonna Break My Stride!) but I do agree music should be off the table.
@@TahoeNevada Thanks, I remember when Living Color hit the scene and no one I knew said hey , that’s “Black Rock” including me. I’ve always looked at music that way. Exceptions maybe stuff that is totally dominated of course
@@generoberts9151 But, rock music is Black music…
I know it's not going to get a lot of requests, but you guys really should react to The Beat (sometimes known as The English Beat). Start with Too Nice to Talk To, and then move on to Mirror in the Bathroom. You will not be disappointed. Their music is superb.
This was a great college jam. We'd blast it out of the windows of the dorms.
All the instruments give each each other so much SPACE on this song. It just works. Genius!
I remember being on 35 North at 3 in the morning driving through Ft. Worth and this song was playing and i remember it fit perfect! Every time I hear this song it transports me back to a great moment in time! Thank you for jogging my memory! ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
This, Invisible Sun and Man In A Suitcase are among my favorite Police songs.
If you want an even different vibe from The Police then "Canary In A Coalmine" is what you want.
I saw The Police in 1980-81, on the Zenyatta Mondatta tour. I still remember how they got the whole stadium chanting with them on this song. and some others, So, imagine 50,000 people chanting "Oh yo yo yo..." along with the band, and this infectious rhythm. Awesome!
Jay & Amber
My friends and I have seen The Police in concert during their only reunion tour on May 17th of 2008. The Police played all their greatest hits that Saturday. I still have my concert ticket from that day.
I saw them in Louisville at Churchill Downs that summer. It was an awesome outdoor concert.
This song is a "less is more" masterpiece. There is almost no music being played, but it is so complete and the reggae feel is very definite despite the minimalist performance. The Police were a revelation when they started, and grew from fun & quirky to very complex and mysterious (like King of Pain and Wrapped Around Your Finger) in just a few years. Sting's solo career went more to jazz, but ever more complex and creative. Listen to Jeremiah Blues Part 1, a deep album cut from The Soul Cages.
El sonido de Police es único, muchos lo imitaron por su influencia del regee,., sin embargo nunca los superaron.
Únicos en su música y estilo.
Several years ago Sting was playing close by and i decided to go to a local airport thinking he'd fly out of there after his show. Well, he did. And the private gate the car had to go through to get to the tarmac was not opened yet so their cars had to stop. I was standing there with a tshirt I got from a concert in 2000 as well as many cd covers. I leaned towards my friend and said "if he rolls down that window I'm gonna sh*t my pants". Two seconds later the window rolled down and he was right there and told us to come up to the car. Signed my shirt and numerous cd covers. Was an amazing experience!
Copeland is an orchestral drummer. One of a kind
Reggae had become popular in Britain by the late 1970s, so its influence can be heard in the music of a number of British rock groups, such as the Police and 10 cc ("Dreadlock Holiday"). In the US, rock radio did their best to lock out Reggae (New Wave also), so there were only a few adherents who had to seek it out, and its influence on pop music in the US was almost nonexistent. We only heard Reggae beats from British bands that got popular here (like the Police) who incorporated elements in their music.
SPACE ~ JAM ! These guys CHANGED the sonic landscape permanently and _FOREVER_ for us back in the late '70's! London was grim, grey and filthy full of tension. Then The Police came out of our little transistor radios and so did optimism .... ... .
Back in the day I heard a story on American Top 40 that this was the first Police song that Sting heard a random person singing without it being played on the radio at the time. According to the story, it brought tears of happiness to his eyes. Not sure if it's true, but pretty cool if it was. The first few Police albums were reggae influenced. "Voices inside my head" is a good follow up for this one.
Saw the Police in 86 in Atlanta at the Conspiracy of Hope show. Such an amazing band, and Copeland is my favorite drummer.
I thought they broke up by ‘84 or ‘85.
@@lynnhettrick7588, they had. However, in 1986, a group of artists were touring to benefit Amnesty International with the Conspiracy of Hope tour. U2, Bryan Adams, Peter Gabriel, Lou Reed, and Sting. By the Atlanta show, the other two members of the Police joined Sting for the show. They played all their Police music. They stayed reunited for three shows and then decided they really still didn’t like each other, and they broke up again.
@@lynnhettrick7588 : en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/A_Conspiracy_of_Hope
When I was 4 back in 85, I loved this song. One night when I was tucked in bed there were some drunk guys walking down the street singing this at the top of their lungs. I especially remember them singing the part at 6:25 and it sounded so eery. Scared my little heart out. Never forgot it
Murder by Numbers is another Police favorite for me. ❤
This is a song I didn't know until I bought The Best of Sting & the Police CD in the 90's. It instantly became my favorite song from them.
This is my No.1 song. I grew up in the early 80s and my parents loved The Police, David Bowie, Alan Parsons Project, etc. a wonderful song that just reminds me of South Africa where I was born and raised.
Spirits In The Material World another Police classic
The drumming is what makes this song for me. Omg, that drumming.
Sting said he wrote this song when he was drunk in a hotel room and kept saying he was "Walking round the Room" in a dizzy drunken haze...something to that effect😂😂😂❤
The Police are such a hidden gem 💎 ✨️ 😳 Stewart Copeland on drums is a beast 👌 😎 💪
They are heavily influenced by reggae. The Police come out of the nexus of UK punk, ska and reggae. The difference between them and many of the other bands that come out of that period is that they are extremely accomplished musicians and song writers. So they added a level of craftsmanship, finesse, and creativity that carried them past the genres.
So glad y'all enjoyed this one! I love the Police so much! Sounds of my youth. 😊🥰🌛
Interestingly enough, the Police had a significant influence on Rush during this period (which one can hear in certain songs on Permanent Waves, Moving Pictures, and Signals (in production from 1979-1982).
Examples include:
- Vital Signs
- Digital Man
- New World Man
- Spirit of Radio
- Distant Early Warning
Drummers Stewart Copeland and Neil Peart would become close friends in the proceeding years as well.
R.S, In many GOAT drummer polls, Peart's always number 1..But Copeland always gets top2- 3 rank in all of them! He spent lots of time learning that style in places like St. Thomas, Jamacia and Barbados. When you see him play, he's loose as a rubber band and goes through 6-7 pairs of sticks a show.
Please you need to hear The Beds too Big Without You -- another great Reggae --- Also for a different side there is Bring on the Night --- If you ever listen to the Spyro the Dragon music soundtrack you will be blown away by the unmistakable compositions by Stuart Copeland on his drums -- Its so fun and it really adds to the game--- and its loaded with his original tunes
The Bed's Too Big Without You was on repeat after a particularly painful breakup in the late 80's. Jeesh. I'm surprised my roomie didn't smash my boombox.
Bring On The Night should've been released as a single. A favorite amongst Police fans.
In the beginning they were known as a blue-eyed reggae band but were really so much more. Amber, I love the way that you get lost in the music and allow it to carry you away. Of you haven't listened to it yet, y'all would love Wrapped Around Your Finger". It's my fave. This makes me miss when MTV actually showed music videos. Great times!
wait-a-minute.......u must've missed it.....they reacted 2 "Wrapped Around Your Finger" last month....... czcams.com/video/9RIPVz_qZAA/video.html
I love this song! Takes me back to much simpler days when we had some really great music 🎶 The Police, The Pretenders, The Cure, Talking Heads......I miss those days 😞
One of the most classic Police songs! To this day, I will never forget the first time I played this record on my home turn table. I had just purchased a $100 stylus -- the needle that plays in the record grooves -- and put it on the tone-arm. The first song I put on to test-drive this hi-fidelity piece of equipment was "Walking On the Moon". When the song starts and Andy Summer's shimmering guitar chords ring out...I was like, "OMG, that sounds awesome!" I heard, immediately, where all that money had gone. I had never heard a record play so pristinely! This was about 1984, I think. Ah, so long ago, but I still remember what it sounded like. Great music by one of the best bands of all-time.
Such a vibe! Yeah Rob!
In the pre-chorus, Sting builds the bottom, Andy Summers hits those spacial chords in contrast to Sting. Really nice!
Well, and it's a power trio. Stewart Copeland fills in the blanks.
Notice how Sting is singing high, but filling the bottom with the bassline.
Just Beautiful!
Sting has said that this song started when he was drunk in a hotel room in Germany and was walking in it singing I'm walking in the room..... eventually it progressed to what we are listening now....
This is one of their best songs! We used to hang out listening to the Police... back in the day 😁
Awesome tune. Other Police 🔥= Synchronicity 2, Invisible Sun, Can't Stand Losing You.
Yay! Do more Police! I was so lucky to see them back in 1980....awesome show.
Andy Summers epic bassist and Copeland is a god on the drums ❤ legends
I have always liked the Police. All of them are gifted. For me Andy Summers is often overlooked. His guitar use is a unique and Stings vocals and Stuart's drum playing. Andy's guitar is like the gravy in a roast dinner in that if brings out the best in the other two...
Stewart Copeland has great solo albums.. My favorite is The Rhythmatist. He went through AFRICA with a tape recorder and recorded African tribes and rhythms and came back and added his drums and music. Very eclectic and a lot of great music and fun..
Now it's time for Synchronicity 2, Can't Stand Losing You, De Do Do Do De Da Da Da, Invisible Sun, Don't Stand So Close To Me, So Lonely, King Of Pain and Spirits In The Material World.
Andy Summers’ playing on this early hit by the Police is a perfect example of how a player doesn’t need to blast or fill every space to make an impression. Instead, Summers impresses with his shimmering textures, inventive suspended chords and restraint, leaving plenty of room for the rhythm section to drive the groove. This approach also was effective in the increasingly larger venues the Police were playing in the late Seventies as their popularity began to grow, creating a sound that resonated throughout the hall.
The key to Summers’ especially sparkling treble comes courtesy of two classic stomp boxes: an MXR Dyna Comp and an Electro-Harmonix Electric Mistress. The compressor gives consistent body to each note in the chords while the Electric Mistress is dialed to a chorus-like effect instead of the usual flanging sweep. An Echoplex set to a single repeat, with the echo volume the same as the dry volume, creates a simple rhythmic effect with a characteristic feel courtesy of overlapping resonant sustain that can’t be duplicated simply by playing two strokes in quick succession.
Eclectic and electric, these seriously talented musicians literally changed the course of modern music. Voted most influential band of all time - (probably Rolling Stone, or the New Musical Express) I wouldn't go that far myself, but love the music.
Flashback to the 80s when I started marching senior drum & bugle corps and we rehearsed the show in an abandoned strip mall parking lot that had fallen into disrepair. A couple marchers, on blind back up moves, ended up falling into a couple of the several pot holes in the parking lot. We started singing to this song "I hope my leg don't break, marching on the moon." Good times (especially because I wasn't one of the dudes that went butt over teakettle).
I love the song! Sting is really showcasing strong vocals here in this song. You can really hear the Ska influence too! Stewart Copeland is one of the best drummers in rock music!❤❤
Wait, up until now I didn't know you guys were Okies! Tulsan here! The Police always rocks, Copeland owns the hi-hat everytime!
This song was from the Police album Reggatta de Blanc (white reggae).
Police were heavenly influenced by reggae, you were right there. The magic of The Police is that they made very accessible popular commercial music but at the same time completely unique and original. Two bars of The Police and you know it's them.
Top 5: Walking on the moon, Spirits in the material world, When The World Is Running Down, you Make The Best Of What's Still Around, Every little thing, King of pain.
The Police "SYNCHRONICITY II" and "DON'T STAND SO CLOSE TO ME" ❤❤
In this particular band all these guys were professionals, like they had classical education for the starters and Steward Copelands drumming with this traditional style was a fire...
Loved the Police as a schoolboy in England in 1981. 'So lonely' is my favourite track of theirs.
Song came from their album “Regatta de blanc” - white reggae!