VH1 Storytellers Season 1 Episode 7 Sting
- July 15, 2006
VH1 Storytellers is a music show where musicians come to tell the stories behind the making of their iconic songs. In episode seven of season one, we meet the illustrious Sting. Singing songs from his solo career as well as from his time with The Police, Sting takes us on a journey from the creation of his early hits to the experimentation of his later work.
Sting has always been regarded as a master storyteller both in song and in speech, and this performance is no different. The intimate setting of the show allows for a deeper connection to the lyrics as we hear the inspiration behind the creation of his songs. Sting makes it clear that his music is more than just a collection of words and melodies; they’re a reflection of his experiences and emotions.
The show starts with Sting telling the story behind one of his biggest hits, “Every Breath You Take”. He reflects on how the song was initially written while he was going through a divorce, but how it was twisted and misinterpreted over the years as being a love song rather than the dark, stalker-like song that it really is. He even admits that he was unsure if he should play it at the show due to its misinterpretation, but eventually, he decided to play it to reveal its true meaning.
The show also highlights songs from Sting’s solo career, such as “If I Ever Lose My Faith In You” and “Fields of Gold”. The former song, Sting explains, was about his fears of losing his voice and how he came to grips with mortality as he looked towards middle age. “Fields of Gold” was inspired by a trip he took to his childhood hometown, where he was struck by the beauty of the golden fields in the countryside.
Throughout the show, Sting shows a willingness to experiment with his sound and style. He performs a rendition of “Roxanne” in a reggae style, a testament to the eclectic influences that have contributed to his sound. He also introduces the audience to several new songs, including “When We Dance” and “Shape of My Heart”. It's clear that Sting is always open to exploring new ideas and sounds, and that he isn’t afraid to challenge his listeners.
Overall, this episode of VH1 Storytellers is a showcase of what makes Sting such an iconic musician. Through his stories, he reveals the complexity that goes into crafting timeless songs, and showcases the raw emotion that makes his music resonate so deeply with his fans. The episode is a must-watch for fans of Sting, The Police, or anyone looking for a deeper connection to the stories behind some of the greatest songs ever written.