Released in May 1983 as the lead single from their final studio album Synchronicity , "" became the defining hit for The Police . While its smooth melody led many to embrace it as a romantic ballad, the song is actually a haunting exploration of obsession and surveillance. The Origin: A "Nasty Little Song"
Producer Hugh Padgham used a minimalist approach to heighten the tension. To avoid physical fights, the band often recorded their parts separately: Copeland’s drums were placed in a dining area, Summers in the main studio, and Sting in the control room. The Police - Every Breath You Take
The Story of... 'Every Breath You Take' by The Police - Smooth Released in May 1983 as the lead single
The original demo was built around a Hammond organ. It only became "The Police" after guitarist Andy Summers added the iconic, clean, arpeggiated riff, which he inspired with the works of composer Béla Bartók. To avoid physical fights, the band often recorded