Full Breakdown
Sting Faces Lawsuit from Former Bandmates Over Lost Royalties
8/26/2025, 6:01:28 PM
Legal Action Initiated by The Police Members
Sting, whose real name is Gordon Matthew Sumner, is currently embroiled in a legal dispute with his former bandmates from The Police, guitarist Andy Summers and drummer Stewart Copeland. The lawsuit, filed in London’s High Court, seeks "substantial" damages for allegedly unpaid royalties amounting to millions of pounds. The case has been categorized under "general commercial contracts and arrangements," with both Sting and his company, Magnetic Publishing Limited, named as defendants.
The lawsuit follows years of unresolved legal disputes among the trio, with sources indicating that attempts at an out-of-court settlement have repeatedly stalled. A source close to the situation stated, “This has been coming for quite some time. Lawyers tried repeatedly to reach an out-of-court settlement but hit a stalemate. Andy and Stewart decided there was no alternative than court so pressed the button.”
Background of The Police's Disbandment and Reunion
The Police, formed in 1977, achieved significant success in the late 1970s and early 1980s, producing iconic hits such as “Every Breath You Take,” which became the best-selling single of 1983. Despite their success, the band disbanded in 1984 amid tensions related to creative control and personal conflicts. The group reunited for a world tour from 2007 to 2008, which grossed over £292 million, yet underlying issues remained unresolved.
Sting has been credited as the sole songwriter for many of the band's hits, including “Every Breath You Take,” which reportedly generates £550,000 annually in royalties for him alone. However, Summers and Copeland allege they have not received co-writing credits or royalties for this and other songs, leading to growing frustration over the years.
Criticism & Opposition
The lawsuit has reignited discussions about the dynamics within The Police, with Copeland previously describing Sting as an egotist and noting the difficulties of working together. In interviews, both Summers and Copeland have expressed their frustrations regarding the lack of compensation for their contributions to the band's success. The legal action highlights broader issues in the music industry regarding how royalties and songwriting credits are divided among band members.
Official Statements & Responses
A spokesperson for Sting has denied that the lawsuit pertains to “Every Breath You Take,” although no further details about the case have been provided. The ongoing legal battle underscores the complexities of financial arrangements in the music industry, particularly for legacy acts like The Police.
What's Next
As the lawsuit progresses through the legal system, it remains to be seen how it will impact the legacy of The Police and the relationships among its members. The outcome could set a precedent for how similar disputes are handled in the future, particularly regarding the compensation of band members who contribute to songwriting and performance but do not receive formal credit.
