The PoliceThe Police

Every Breath You Take

New Wave Rock

Introduction to "Every Breath You Take"

"Every Breath You Take" is a signature 1980s song by the iconic band The Police. This song, with its haunting melody and chilling lyrics, has left an indelible mark on the music industry, and continues to captivate audiences decades after its initial release.

Cultural and Historical Context of "Every Breath You Take"

Released in 1983, "Every Breath You Take" captured the zeitgeist of the cold war era, subtly reflecting the pervasive sense of surveillance and suspicion that characterized those times. This song stood out against the backdrop of other music of the 1980s, with its darkly romantic and possessive undertones, offering listeners a stark contrast to the pop-centric tunes of that decade.

An Intriguing Fact about This Track

Interestingly, the track has often been misunderstood as a love song, with its lyric "I'll be watching you". However, Sting, the song's writer, has clarified that it's actually about the dark side of obsession and control, providing a deeper, more complex interpretation of this piece.

Cover Versions of "Every Breath You Take"

Such is the timeless appeal of this song that it has been covered by numerous artists over the years, each bringing their own unique interpretation to it. Notably, Puff Daddy's tribute version to Notorious B.I.G., "I'll Be Missing You", used the melody of this track and went on to become a number one hit in its own right.

Why "Every Breath You Take" is Still Relevant

Despite being released in the 1980s, the cultural impact of "Every Breath You Take" remains potent. Its themes of obsession and surveillance resonate in our current digital age, where privacy concerns are more relevant than ever. Moreover, the track's hauntingly beautiful melody continues to captivate, proving that great music truly is timeless.