Ep 9. Sting

Behind The Music is an American documentary series that takes viewers behind the scenes of some of the biggest names in music. Each episode focuses on one artist or band, tracing their rise to fame, exploring their personal lives, and chronicling their struggles and triumphs along the way. In season 3, episode 9, the focus is on the one and only Sting.

Born Gordon Matthew Sumner in Newcastle, England, Sting rose to fame in the late 1970s as the lead vocalist and bassist for the iconic band The Police. With hit songs like "Roxanne," "Message in a Bottle," and "Every Breath You Take," The Police quickly became one of the most successful bands of the era. However, as their fame grew, tensions between Sting and his bandmates began to mount. In 1984, The Police disbanded, and Sting embarked on a successful solo career.

The episode kicks off with a look at Sting's early years. Growing up in a working-class family in Newcastle, he was deeply influenced by the music he heard in the local jazz clubs. He eventually moved to London to pursue music, but success was slow in coming. It wasn't until he joined The Police that he finally found the commercial success he had long been seeking.

However, as the documentary shows, success didn't come without its challenges. Sting reflects on the pressures of fame, the relentless touring schedule, and the conflicts that ultimately led to The Police's breakup. He also opens up about his personal life, including his marriage to Trudie Styler and their four children, and the impact that fame and success have had on his relationships.

Throughout the episode, we hear from Sting's family, friends, and colleagues, including members of The Police, about what makes Sting such a unique and talented artist. We also see behind-the-scenes footage of his tours and recordings, and learn about his philanthropic work, including his support for environmental causes and his work with Amnesty International.

Ultimately, the show presents a complex and nuanced portrait of one of the most iconic figures in music. We see the highs and lows of Sting's career, and the struggles he has faced along the way. But we also see the passion and creativity that have made him one of the greatest artists of his generation. For fans of Sting and The Police, as well as anyone interested in the behind-the-scenes workings of the music industry, this episode of Behind The Music is a must-see.