Andy Summers and Stewart Copeland, former members of The Police, are taking legal action against Sting over unpaid royalties for the iconic song “Every Breath You Take.” They claim they haven’t received proper credit or compensation for their songwriting contributions.
The lawsuit was filed in the London High Court. Summers and Copeland argue that despite the song’s massive success—being the band’s only Number One hit in the U.S.—they have been overlooked. The song also gained renewed fame as a sample in Puff Daddy’s tribute to Notorious B.I.G., “I’ll Be Missing You.”
The lawsuit names Sting, whose real name is Gordon Matthew Sumner, and his publishing company, Magnetic Publishing, as defendants. As of now, there has been no comment from Sting or representatives for either party.
Reports on the case have noted that a source indicated tensions had been building. Lawyers for Summers and Copeland attempted to negotiate an out-of-court settlement. When that failed, they decided to pursue legal action, claiming they are owed millions in royalties.
In a related note, in 2022, Sting sold his songwriting catalog to Universal Music Group, encompassing both his solo work and The Police’s songs, in a deal reportedly worth $250 million. This transaction raised eyebrows about fairness in the music industry, underscoring how songwriters often struggle to receive their due.
The ongoing conversation on social media emphasizes the broader issue of artists receiving proper credit and fair payment. Many fans and industry insiders are rallying support for Summers and Copeland. This case is not just about one song; it brings to light the ongoing challenges songwriters face in an ever-evolving music landscape.
For context, this isn’t the first time renowned artists have faced disputes over royalties. Similar legal battles have been common in the industry; in fact, a 2021 survey by Music Industry Insider found that 60% of songwriters reported issues related to unpaid royalties.
As the case unfolds, it may serve as a reminder of the importance of recognizing all contributors to a song’s success. Music is a collaborative effort, and everyone involved deserves their fair share.
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Andy Summers,Stewart Copeland,Sting,The Police
