Written by Sting and recorded by The Police for their fifth and final album Synchronicity (1983), ‘Every Breath You Take’ is a mid-tempo ballad sung from the perspective of a possessive person, watching over their lost lover at every turn.
The song features an iconic guitar riff played by guitarist Andy Summers, who was inspired by Béla Bartók’s violin duets while recording the part. There is also a backing piano accompaniment that consists of individual notes, repeated over and over, sprinkled throughout the song’s bridge.
Download your free digital copy of the sheet music for ‘Every Breath You Take’ by The Police today. Typically sold for $9.95, it’s yours at no cost during June 2023. This transcription is arranged for solo piano and based on this performance by Ulrika A. Rosén.
Fun Facts About ‘Every Breath You Take’ By The Police
- To the dismay of Sting, the song has earned a reputation for being a love song despite the dark themes and lyrics.
- In 2019 the song was recognized by Broadcast Music, Inc. (BMI) as the most played song in radio history, with an estimated 15 million radio plays.
- Sting wrote the song in response to the public outcry from his affair with ex-wife Frances Tomelty’s best friend, Trudie Styler.
- The song was ranked No.305 on the Rolling Stone list of 500 Greatest Songs of All Time in 2021.
This version of ‘Every Breath You Take’ by The Police was transcribed by Tunescribers team member Ranita B.
