About the song
“Every Breath You Take” by The Police is a song that transcends generations. Released in 1983, it became the band’s signature song and Sting’s most recognizable work. While topping charts worldwide and receiving numerous accolades, the song’s meaning has become a subject of debate.
On the surface, the melancholic melody and Sting’s vocals paint a picture of romantic devotion. Lyrics like “Every breath you take, every move you make, I’ll be watching you” evoke a sense of all-encompassing love. This interpretation fueled the song’s success, making it a popular choice for weddings and romantic gestures.
However, a closer look at the lyrics reveals a more sinister side. The obsessive nature of the protagonist becomes clear, hinting at control and possessiveness. Sting himself has acknowledged this duality, stating that he wrote the song from the perspective of “Big Brother,” a reference to a world of constant surveillance.
The recording process itself was fraught with tension, reflecting the song’s underlying theme. The band members, particularly Sting and drummer Stewart Copeland, clashed creatively. Interestingly, guitarist Andy Summers’s unique riff, inspired by Bela Bartok, became a defining element of the song.
Despite the internal struggles, “Every Breath You Take” left an undeniable mark on music history. The music video, featuring a black and white performance in a darkened room, added to the song’s mystique. It became a staple on MTV, further propelling the song’s popularity.
The song’s legacy continues to grow. “Every Breath You Take” holds the distinction of being the most played song in BMI’s history, with millions of radio plays and a constant presence in popular culture. It has been covered by numerous artists and sampled in hit songs like Puff Daddy’s “I’ll Be Missing You.”
“Every Breath You Take” is a complex song that invites multiple interpretations. Whether viewed as a love song or a cautionary tale about obsession, it remains a powerful and enduring rock anthem.
Video
Lyrics
Every breath you take
And every move you make
Every bond you break
Every step you take
I’ll be watching you
Every single day
And every word you say
Every game you play
Every night you stay
I’ll be watching you
Oh, can’t you see
You belong to me?
How my poor heart aches
With every step you take?
Every move you make
And every vow you break
Every smile you fake
Every claim you stake
I’ll be watching you
Since you’ve gone, I’ve been lost without a trace
I dream at night, I can only see your face
I look around, but it’s you I can’t replace
I feel so cold, and I long for your embrace
I keep crying, baby, baby please
Oh, can’t you see
You belong to me?
How my poor heart aches
With every step you take?
Every move you make
And every vow you break
Every smile you fake
Every claim you stake
I’ll be watching you
Every move you make
Every step you take
I’ll be watching you
I’ll be watching you
(Every breath you take)
(Every move you make)
(Every bond you break)
(Every step you take) I’ll be watching you
I’ll be watching you
I’ll be watching you
whoo, hoo
(Every game you play)
(Every night you stay) I’ll be watching you
I’ll be watching you
I’ll be watching you
I’ll be watching you
(Every single day)
(Every word you say)
(Every game you play)
(Every night you stay) I’ll be watching you