Stewart Copeland and Andy Summers have filed a High Court writ against Sting (Gordon Matthew Sumner) and his company, Magnetic Publishing Limited, seeking millions in lost royalties.
The lawsuit focuses on royalties from "Every Breath You Take," the best-selling single of 1983, for which Sting holds the sole songwriting credit.
Copeland and Summers claim they have not received appropriate royalties or songwriting credits for the song.
Sting reportedly earns £550,000 annually from "Every Breath You Take" royalties alone.
The Police formed in 1977, split in the mid-1980s, and sold 75 million records worldwide.
The lawsuit highlights the complex financial dynamics within successful bands, particularly concerning songwriting credits and royalty distribution. "Every Breath You Take," released in 1983, remains a massive hit, but the songwriting credits were solely attributed to Sting. Despite the band’s collective contribution to the song’s success, Summers and Copeland have not received songwriting royalties, leading to the current legal action.
Historical Context: The Police emerged from London’s punk scene in 1977, achieving international stardom with albums like *Reggatta de Blanc*. Despite their success, tensions over creative control and financial rewards persisted, contributing to their eventual split. A reunion tour in the mid-2000s temporarily masked these issues, but the underlying conflicts have now resurfaced.
Why This Matters: This lawsuit could set a precedent for how royalties are distributed in band settings, potentially impacting future agreements and legal disputes within the music industry. It also underscores the importance of clear and equitable songwriting contracts.
How to Prepare: Musicians and bands should ensure that all agreements regarding songwriting credits and royalties are clearly documented and legally sound to avoid future disputes.
Who This Affects Most: This situation primarily affects musicians, songwriters, and band members, highlighting the need for transparency and fairness in financial arrangements.
Q: What is the core issue of the lawsuit?
The lawsuit revolves around Stewart Copeland and Andy Summers claiming they are owed millions in lost royalties from the song "Every Breath You Take."
Q: Why are Copeland and Summers suing Sting now?
After years of attempting to reach an out-of-court settlement, Copeland and Summers decided to pursue legal action due to a stalemate in negotiations.
Q: How much does Sting earn from "Every Breath You Take" annually?
Sting reportedly earns £550,000 a year in royalties from the song.
The lawsuit underscores the complexities of financial arrangements within successful bands.
"Every Breath You Take" continues to generate significant revenue, highlighting the enduring appeal of The Police’s music.
Clear and equitable songwriting contracts are essential to avoid disputes over royalties.
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