Andy Summers: His Career With The Police and Iconic Guitar Style

[@brendanoshea1472]

I cannot believe how lucky we are to have this series of interviews, Rick. It’s absolutely unfathomable how many times you’ve been able to get the HEROES of our musical experience to come to your home, talk about their musical journeys and perform and pick them apart, and for the most part- piece by piece show us how to make magic. It’s an incredibly powerful and beautiful tool. Thank you so much for sharing this with your fans.

[@edbielecki55]

So true

[@linzmusic554]

It's fathomable for a single reason: Rick is _that good_ - outside of that, it is literally unbelievable

[@TheRomeerome]

Fax

[@RickBeato]

Thanks🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@brendanoshea1472]

@@RickBeatonah, thank you!! Best music content creator on the ‘Tube! Who’s next? Keith and Mick? Sir Paul??

[@vinylrescueband2126]

Andy will be 81 next week, and still sharp as a tack. Being a musician keeps you young and keeps your brain healthy. Why are we constantly cutting the Arts from education like it's some form of amusement and nothing more. Music is life, music is culture, music is the greatest ambassador. Great interview. Thank you both.

[@green323turbo]

People are making such a fuss about Keith Richards being 80 , this guy is older and looks in excellent shape

[@christheghostwriter]

Summers is 81? Wow, he looks like he's in his 60s

[@christheghostwriter]

​@green323turbo the thing with Keith is that he should have died decades ago. It might be surprising to realize that Summers is 81, but it's even more surprising that Richards is alive at all

[@curbozerboomer1773]

So interesting to me, being a Hendrix fanatic. Andy was rumored for years to having jammed with Hendrix the first day or two that Jimi had arrived in London. The story was that he was very young, like 17-18 or so...but obviously, Andy must have been in his early 20s when he met Hendrix. Andy did indeed see Hendrix a couple of years later, in LA, and did jam with him at a studio called TTG. That likely was the last time Andy actually hung out with Jimi...There is some film taken of several well-known artists hanging with Jimi at TTG...and his talking of walking in, and seeing Jimi, with his famous hat on, really wailing on guitar...that scene is also briefly on film!...Amazing, that Andy actually broke away from the Rock scene for quite awhile, and went to study music in a more academic way!...Then Andy returns to England, meets his mates in the future supergroup The Police? What a charmed life Andy has led. And he still is very sharp at 81 years of age? Incredible!...I am not a great fan of The Police really...but I always did appreciate Andy's excellent, very tasty style of guitar playing And as a true, life-long Hendrix fanatic, it is so gratifying to hear from someone who actually knew, hung out with, and even jammed with my hero!

[@Diamondog186]

Well said😎

[@ilr2008]

I had the pleasure of meeting Andy around 18 years ago. Went to his show, and met him afterwards. I had been trying to learn the challenging intro to "Bring On The Night" and asked him how he played it. He took out his Tele and showed me how to fingerpick it, line by line. A genuinely sweet guy and one of the guitar greats!

[@tonymarinelli7304]

It doesn’t get any better than that, as a guitarist that is the ultimate

[@MetalForLife1970]

Wow! What a moment that must have been! A true legend!

[@melrupinski88]

Great story, that must have been amazing. Can’t help but wonder if Andy did the same thing for Waddy Wachtel before the recording of Edge of Seventeen.

[@Marcus_C51]

Wow, what a great story--that is so touching and really fantastic that a world famous guitarist would take the time to show exactly how to play their songs to someone. How awesome is that? Other legends have done the same thing, it's so cool. Obviously it's the love of the instrument and music that fuels it and it's a beautiful thing!

[@pam164]

Love that song.

[@lordviewer7305]

This is the real rolling stone magazine, this is real music journalism. Thank you Rick Beato.

[@Frostheimer]

Check out Otis Gibbs, too. More country/folk/singer-songwriter leaning but superb.

[@BeesWaxMinder]

RiP RS👍

[@pak47man]

Great point. RS lost its mojo a long time ago.

[@deanandthebeans857]

It’s incredible that it’s taken this long for someone to invent this format - that is, rock musicians being interviewed by musicians about music, instead of asking their favourite colour or their politics. Hats off to Rick!

[@deadlotCamper]

try watching almost ANY interview with nirvana, its nauseating and beyond stressful. no mystery why zeppelin constantly refused interviews, as they were a complete waste of time at best, and irritating at worst.

[@softailspringer9915]

Rick’s interviews are unparalleled. The world is hungry for this level of conversation with our gifted musicians

[@todd8155]

@deanandthebeans857 - It makes a big difference to have someone that can talk at the same level. Rick has incredible knowledge of music that allows him to understand context and to make a connection with the interviewee.

[@wariswaldo9790]

@@todd8155yes, Rick is also a experienced producer. Not just the officially educated musician. I like how Rick is like the excited kid at Christmas through these interviews.

[@suzannemelnyk8042]

​. Absolutely 💯

[@chrishowe8614]

This is the best "interview" I've ever seen! You let the guest talk, no agenda, no ridiculous sound bite questions that insult the guest, just pure music history and inside stories. AND a focus on the music not posing and love affairs. Your interjections are also spot on. Wish the rest of the media could do this.

[@farmgene]

Excellent comment!

[@georgemacdonald3087]

Exactly! Some "interviewers" think it's all about them... cough..Howard Stern... and answer the question by attempting to put words in their mouths before the guests gets a chance to respond. When the guest is interesting and eloquent just shut up and let them talk. Andy Summers is a case in point and he was allowed to flow by Rick Beato. Excellent interview.

[@zcat1006]

Bill Mahar should take note.

[@jimmygrant3151]

All of Rick's interviews are the same.

[@RigoBuitrago]

Rick's interview style and insight for asking the right questions at the right time just gets better every video he makes!

[@ronlee2611]

One of the greatest guitar players on the planet. People don't realize how incredible Andy's playing is. Outstanding interview!

[@curbozerboomer1773]

I love Andy's playing on some of Sting's "solo" efforts..."Round Midnight" comes to mind. Andy summers is so impressively thorough in his knowledge of music in general, and his stunning, virtuoso playing speaks for his intelligence!...Not many popularly successful Rock musicians are as intelligent as Andy Summers!

[@BretElkington]

And to think that Rolling Stone put Andy at the very bottom of their 250 greatest guitarists list this year. Ignorami.

[@lenray3429]

@@BretElkingtonRidiculous!

[@jjvermeer]

​@@BretElkingtonThe only list that matters is your own.

[@geoffwales8646]

@@BretElkington Imagine doing that with the 250 greatest artists (painters). Is Picasso better than Monet, but not as good as Dali? Stupid idea, but boosts sales.

[@tequilamondayproject5089]

Have we ever seen an interviewer who is confident enough, and savvy enough, to let HIS GUESTS TALK. By subtly guiding them, nudging them, and letting them tell their full stories, we hear virtually everything we want to know about their lives and music. Have watched all three of the Police interviews. So well done...

[@Mistressofthegroove]

He is brilliant at bringing out all the gems of musicianship, no interviewers do that better! Love his style!

[@garycitro1674]

Indeed! As talented as Jimmy Fallon is as a performer, as an interviewer he barely lets the guest get a word in edgewise.

[@MaggieD0123]

Dick Cavett was like that imo

[@shelby3822]

This man has certainly found the fountain of youth... 80 years old Full head of hair Looks 50 Sharp as a tack Memory is 100% Energy of a 30yo Thank you sir for all the music and it was a thrill to see the reunion tour as I was too young to see you lot in the heyday.

[@quietinterlude770]

That's what I was thinking. I know it's not music related but maybe Rick could ask about their lifestyles and what has got them to that point. I certainly would love to know

[@jameseustace4375]

Doubt that's his real hair 😂

[@chrislestermusic]

@@jameseustace4375People said that about Jeff Beck too but point to a time where either Andy or Jeff’s hair was thinning. I doubt they were wearing wigs since the 60s.🤓

[@hubriswonk]

He looks drunk to me.

[@VisualSOLUTIONSMedia]

I thought the same thing! Hope I'm that sharp in 15yrs!

[@weezadam]

Can hardly articulate how excited I am to watch this interview, Rick. The Police mean so much to me and seeing them live in Boston in summer '07 was a dream come true. Stewart Copeland is my favorite drummer and as a guitar player, Andy is a real inspiration. I can only imagine the immense respect these titans have for your knowledge and passion! Please interview Mr. Copeland next!

[@mortalkoil1971]

I was there too ! Great show !

[@magolf1]

This, and the Sting interview… 🤯 Awesome. Thank you, Rick!

[@thewayidoit8895]

No, to me, they mean a lot!

[@tomj9710]

❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@tat2jim]

You need to get Stewart over there!

[@meandthemrs7403]

My favorite interview of the three. What a pleasant guy.

[@michelepiumini2312]

Dear Rick, this is Michele from Italy, huge fan of the Police and Italian translator of all three of their memoirs. I don't know how to thank you for your amazing job, your interviews to Sting and Andy Summers are by far the best and most thrilling I've ever seen. Which begs the question: are we in for a Stewart Copeland interview? 🙂

[@johngrobson4899]

I hope so that he Interviews Stewart Copeland 🥁🔥🥁

[@arif-hodzic]

Yes PLEASE!

[@magnusdolby3844]

Make it complete. All good things come in in three.

[@ec7287]

Lotta great interviews of Copeland on YT already. But won't hurt to have another!

[@BmaGrl]

It shouldn't be difficult to set up an interview with Stewart Copeland. NO ONE in The Police loves to talk more than he does!

[@joem500]

This is perhaps the best musician interview I’ve ever seen. I LOVED the Police as a kid. Sting has given a bazillion interviews. To hear Andy Summers telling stories and playing with the chords and stacks. So good.

[@susanne.susannadanna]

Have you read his memoir? It's really good!

[@radicaster1]

Agreed on best interview. It really cannot get any better. It was like Andy was writing a book.

[@thabilsterone]

Totally!

[@MrLouisfine]

Great interview. He is more humble than Sting. Now it is to meet Steward Copeland. Take care of yourself.

[@MDoherty00]

Body language says he really doesn’t want to be there

[@spetersonmusic]

I sit stunned at these interviews. I've met Rick twice briefly at NAMM shows (2019 and 2020), and he was polite, friendly, and gracious. I've watched his channel for years and love it all. These interviews are beyond what anyone could ever hope for. The people are willing to sit down and talk to Rick; they open up. They respect the interviewer. This interview, it's unbelievable. As always, my hat is off. Good on you, man.

[@soundguyldn]

It's a really good point - Rick excels at interviewing people and it's a skill that easily gets overlooked. These interviews are exceptionally good, real treasure!

[@azwald]

Rick Beato is a lifestyle :D

[@hkpr-ro6ui]

@@soundguyldnI think one of Rick's many strengths is asking an insightful question and then letting the interviewee answer at length. It allows the interview to breath, the interviewee to relax so they become hugely informative.

[@ColinCarFan]

Perhaps the key is that Rick's interviews focus solely on their music, origins, influences and the people they met on their way. No gossip or newspaper headline story stuff. Artists like Andy, Sting, Brian May (the list goes on) probably welcome that kind of interview and long may they go on. I'm waiting for Bono and/or the Edge!

[@benshafer5198]

Pure f***ing gold. Completely captivating. Andy can TELL a story, and Rick allows it to breathe and fully develop

[@ConservativeChimpsy]

When I first saw that this interview was over an hour and forty minutes, I said to myself that I will watch it in segments. But after I started watching I just couldn't stop and didn't want it to end. That's the magic of Beato with amazing iconic guests like Andy Summers. Thank you Rick for making this possible.

[@bwanadave76]

Same here.

[@joerve128]

same here hahaha

[@lawncuttingplusdelta]

Well said !! …. Same here !

[@arsonor]

Same here.

[@louiebee6745]

Yep same here too!

[@briandeeley1599]

Andy looks amazing at 81 years old! and he is sharp and full of energy.

[@edbernardmusic3599]

He does look great.

[@artemisnite]

When Andy shows us the chord... I nearly wept. I keep being overwhelmed by the magic of hearing the stories behind the scenes of the music that meant so much to me all my life. I can't express the depths of my gratitude for bringing us this phenomenal interview. ❤

[@RickBeato]

Thank you 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@dtg5909]

Glad it wasn’t just me I actually did cry!

[@purdisc]

You are not alone 😁😢❤️

[@GuilhaMarinho]

@@RickBeato at 53:31 I’m pretty sure you intentionally (because you are a class act) didn’t correct Andy, as I truly believe the chord he showed wasn’t the real one on the recording. Despite the fact that delay and chorus may affect the reading, I believe the notes are, bottom to top, D F C D G. That top F and G together just don’t do the trick, although it could’ve been an alternative. This is one of my “desert island” chords, and it sort of reminds me of another that could be it’s sibling: the one(s) that kicks off Hard Day’s Night, but of course…❤

[@backslash68]

Read his autobiography, amazing book

[@davidkrupansky6253]

That’s was one of the best interviews I have ever seen. I was upset when it ended as I wanted more. I could listen to Andy for hours and hours. What a cool guy.

[@nickdye5797]

100% agree. I love the Police and it was awesome to see him talk so candidly about his career in music.

[@ericmehlenbeck7881]

Yeah, totally agree. What a cool dude. Just so down to earth and honest. And that guitar work that he did on those Police albums is mind blowing. To this day. And for decades to come.

[@SandraSchuster-ut2nk]

... I'm saving this, bit for bit, Andy is such a gentleman and so incredibly funny (I saw him in Montréal and he left such an impression on me).

[@SandraSchuster-ut2nk]

I was 8 or 9 when I started music lessons ... 😂 straight to the drums 🥁 ❤😊

[@tinkaluisa8540]

You should read his autobiography, "One Train Later." I've read many rock 'n' roll books; this was the best one by far.

[@WarmVoice]

Andy's playing is masterfully understated. He lets the music breathe so naturally and blends perfectly with Stewart's intricate rhythms and Sting's awesome bass and vocals. They really showed how big a trio could be using space as the fourth player.

[@robm3569]

Perfectly stated ~ "using space as the fourth player". There is so much to learn from listening to the Police.

[@godbyone]

What’s odd. Rick talked about the chords gave sting credit for these hard chords but I always thought it was. Andy that came up with chords

[@godbyone]

Do guys remember when Rick talked about stings.Choice of chords. ?

[@todd8155]

@@godbyone - Rick has a video "No one composes like Sting" or something along those lines. Sting is a master song writer with great musical knowledge. He could compose jazz masterpieces if he chooses, a point that Stewart Copeland makes..

[@0not.an.it.guy0]

@@godbyone Sting wrote most of their songs, which probably included keys and chord progressions. Andy built off of that and made it musical and sonically interesting. He even demonstrated that at one point, playing the plain chord sequence in comparison to what they recorded.

[@darrenboswell5809]

No way could I believe Andy is 81! I was a big fan of The Police as a young man (now 58) and I loved hearing his stories and hearing about the genesis of some of their biggest songs. Thank you Rick and Thank you Andy. Great video.

[@harryhondo1013]

I know, I saw the Police in '82 and '83, when I was a teenager, and I had no idea that Andy was about 40 at the time.

[@CoryDavidSchreyer]

Andy Summers: Born in Dec. 1942 vs. Gordon "Sting" Sumner: Born in October 1951 and Stewart Copeland: Born in July 1952. An interesting age gap for a punk-pop group. No wonder there was some tension in the studio. Some great music was produced, though. 😎

[@eltorpedo67]

Wow Rick. This is a treasure. This is THE Andy Summers interview I've been waiting for. Usually the standard, rushed Q&A format interview leaves Andy seeming to be a bit taciturn but you have given him the time and space to let him go - he's such an expressive and entertaining story-teller. Obviously totally relaxed and into it. Amazing job - the time flew right by watching this.

[@plattecitypaul9983]

Very well said!

[@richardraby6266]

Agreed; what an excellent interview, really saw how this guy was destined for success; what a great musician.

[@jfg1356]

you are so right - giving Andy a chance to 'fill the time' and go a bit deeper

[@cozmicpfunk]

I totally agree with your comments here- I have always loved the Police since first hearing them on KLBJ Radio Austin Texas 1978. Andy has been one of my all time guitar hero's, everything about his playing is genius! His chord progressions and voicings have helped shape my playing and musicality. To see him at his age talking with the energy of someone 30 years his junior is unbelievable. What an amazing interview!

[@dartbreaker]

This is the absolute pinnacle of Rick Beato's many star interviews. The musical greatness and humanity of Andy Summers shines throughout. A real gift to posterity.

[@tremayne3]

YES SIR !!!

[@celticbro2828]

This is absolutely in the tops of Rick interviews. Do as any competent interviewer SHOULD do. Ask a few questions here or there, but let the interviewee take it from there and run with it. Andy is such a cool, humble and funny guy. Also, when you think interviewee is done, do that pause for a few seconds, and then it continues. So natural and not forced, and not a cocky interviewer wanting to hear his voice. It's all about the subject, and Beato is top notch in letting the music and musician shine.

[@Mineav]

Summers is such a legend. Synchronicity II is one of my absolute favorite songs to play on the guitar.

[@thewal1ofsleep]

Incredible song.

[@edwnorris]

@@thewal1ofsleep There's something about the way they use those chords that stands by itself. No one else could make them sound that thick, and that sharp, at the same time.

[@bugleclapton]

​@@edwnorris一..i一/.😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊

[@bugleclapton]

​@@edwnorris一😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊

[@ciphermatrix]

Absolutely wonderful. Whilst Andy is self-effacing at times, you can see when he listens back that he knows how good and how unique his guitar work was and quite rightly too as he defined his own sound. Watched all 3 Police interviews this week again and just an absolute treat.

[@mikejervis599]

I love Rick's way of interviewing, he let's them talk and tell their story without constantly interrupting them. Great interview!

[@sseltrek1a2b]

yup...you want to hear things you've never heard from these musicians, so you need to "let them talk"...

[@michaelscott356]

Agreed! Just a modicum of politely placed, we'll informed prompts to bring out the best from the interviewee!

[@guitarsrcool4922]

Why would he invite him to his house and then constantly interrupt him? If he had a reputation for doing that he probably wouldn't get anyone to interview.

[@geipelawrence1278]

Nowhere in history has anybody ever provided the connection to our heroes that Rick Beato has. Rick’s gift to all of us is unprecedented. I think back to my days growing up, scrounging around for an interview clip of Hendrix, Beck, Clapton, Page… The interviewers asked all the obvious questions, but few things were ever discussed that my aspiring musical mind wanted to really know. What a gift this is. Can you even imagine the Beato Hendrix interview. It almost seems like a crime that we cannot have that. God Bless Rick Beato for his contribution to the musical community. We will all look back one day and realize that he played a major role in the futures of so many musicians. Just and epic contribution to the arts that I hope one day will be fully appreciated. Thank you, Rick!! PS Geddy & Alex please get in touch with Rick!

[@jackpine70]

The fact that HE listened to you and answered your questions thoughtfully is a real testament to your interviewing style. Way to go, Rick.

[@Slaneous]

One hour, forty one minutes and forty three seconds of absolute music gold! Andy Summers has been a guitar hero of mine for many decades. Thank you Rick.

[@Tomkarshner]

How lucky we all are to have a person of Ricks caliber politely interviewing famous, crafted humble musicians who have invested some much of their lives into making timeless music that will live forever. Thank you Rick and Andy

[@MichaelCGatesMusic]

81 years old... And the first chord he plays, I can't reach. And I'm a pianist!!! Legendary!

[@backslash68]

His autobiography is a must read for any musician. Very entertaining and at times totally hilarious, the man has plenty of humour

[@joda4063]

Totally agree. I bought his «One train later» book early in 2007, and later after reading both Sting and Stuarts books find Andys the best of them

[@backslash68]

@@joda4063 I liked Sting's book, very well written and he really puts out what he had to suffer. In comparison with Andy's book, it looks deeper and darker.

[@evieblue959]

@@backslash68 King of Pain, that one.

[@Peter_Crow]

Can’t wait for the third artist to be interviewed in this “The Police” series 😉

[@dan_gabriel]

Can't believe he's 81, looks and feels so young. Amazing musician😍

[@druwk]

You don’t think about how important Andy’s chord choices were, because they fit so seamlessly. Simple. Unique. Powerful

[@jaf8313]

Mr. Summers came off completely different than how I viewed him in my head.....much more charming and generous. The guy is an absolute genius.....the parts he came up with are just so perfect. I could listen to him tell stories all day. Great interview of an absolute legend.

[@monietz]

The video to"Don't Stand so Close to Me ('86 version) didn't help

[@richardfairlamb9728]

Completely agree. His guitar line and unexpected chord choices are so memorable and as you say, genius.

[@beneunson]

Andy is brilliant. Thank you Rick!

[@robertofernandes4375]

I'm a Brazilian guitarist and I was living in London back in 78, recording with a rock band in some top studios, getting to know some interesting people and everything seemed to be going just fine when suddenly I heard being Roxxane played on somebody's radio and I immediately thought what a nice reggae band, different from everything I had heard before and for obvious reasons, I imagined a bunch o Jamaican brilliant musicians and a wonderful singer behind that. I was amazed by the whole production... some days later, watching a famous TV Show which could have been either the Top of the Pops or The Old Grey Whistle Test, they announced this new sensation called The Police and suddenly these three good-looking blond guys came onstage and started playing that Roxxane song.... I was shocked and years and years later..... still am. They are three geniuses !!! Thank you so much Rick for this wonderful interview. You are another genius.

[@Mistressofthegroove]

Roxanne was a 'hairs on the back of your neck' moment for sure! Great days!

[@fischhold]

Companies tell Rick he can't use their copyrighted songs in his videos... Rick invites artists himself, they come Rick plays the songs from his phone with the artist sitting right beside him. Rick is DEEPLY satisfied :)

[@radicaster1]

Absolutely unreal. His thoughts and communication skills are as tight and intellectual as guitar playing. What a gem of a human being.

[@bradchristianson9275]

His autobiography is just as good! Far superior to Sting's.

[@MattMicucci]

Three strong personalities coming together in a quintessential rock and roll trio. What a band, what a legacy!

[@HyphenDJW]

These three interviews - Sting, Andy, and Stewart - are a brilliant triptych of insights into not only the Police but their entire era of music. Thank you Rick!

[@drea3556]

Definitely. I love the different perspective and personalities of these 3. Gives me a great inside to them as a band.

[@kdenn71]

The level of openness, honesty, authenticity, and zero pretense is a pure treasure. Thank you both!

[@jeffhuehn1903]

Rick, I'm constantly amazed at how comfortable you make your guests and how open they are because of it. Easily the best interviewer of all of these legendary musicians in the business. These should be required viewing for a course in Jazz, Blues, and Rock History and they'll be even more important when all these legends are gone. Thank you.

[@GaryDavidSisto]

Andy is a fantastic interviewee. When Rick talks he never cuts him off, like many other famous people do--unable to listen to anyone else. And Andy tells wonderful stories with beginnings, middles, and endings! Bravo gents.

[@guitarpros.7786]

Can't believe he's 81... It feels like he's 60! What a great interview, Rick! Fun and inspiring to watch as always! 👏👏

[@nickpaz9113]

That entire band was genius. Each member was innovative

[@artemisnite]

Just phenomenal how many names he casually drops. I fully expect him to talk about the time he jammed with Julius Caesar and Alexander the Great, but they had to leave just when Jesus and Mohammed showed up with their Fender Strats. 😮 Thanks so much for bringing us these sacred moments, Rick. You're literally making history, man. ❤

[@Syclone0044]

Lmao 😂 👏🏼

[@octurn]

Another person who doesn't know their Bible. Jesus never played a Fender Strat, despite what is written in the non-canonical Gospel of Judas.

[@franksutopiahead940]

Andy is one of the coolest cats I've ever listened to in my 70 years of life... as a guitarist, he is an inspiration to all of us guitar players, as a human being, even more! Well done, Rick!!! ✌️💜🎸🤗

[@johncook30284]

Those open 11 chords he showed. I am going to re-watch this.

[@Ascendantmusic]

Love love love this dude! Andy Summers is a real one. Legend.

[@rumoursduo]

There is simply TOO much to comment on from this interview, instead I'll just say Thankyou, thankyou, thankyou Rick. I know band reunions are kind of passe these days, but I am SO glad I got to see The Police live in 2007, it was a very emotional moment. I seriously hope Andy Summers understands just how important & influential he has been for the last 45 years.

[@willudallmusic]

Best concert I've ever seen! We were so lucky to get it 🙏🏻

[@JohnnyBeane]

I wanted to be Eddie Van Halen until I discovered Andy Summers. Andy changed everything for me as a Guitarist and luckily I’ve been able to hang out & talk with Andy many times over the years and just hung out a month ago after his show in Monterey California.

[@aroe3896]

wow, Summers > Van Halen. I like that choice!

[@JohnnyBeane]

@@aroe3896 Thank you! Am lucky I met both of them.

[@curbozerboomer1773]

@@aroe3896 Well...two different genres of guitar genius!.

[@mkii1964]

I cannot over emphasize how influential The Police were to me as a young guitarist in the late 70’s. Love you Andy!!

[@JohnPrepuce]

Me too. No other guitarist at the time was anything like Andy. Truly unique. Not afraid to be different either.

[@paulseano5100]

What an enjoyable interview with Andy and what a nice lad as it were. These interviews with rock icons keep getting better and better. What a privilege to be able to interview such legends in your own personal studio. Cheers

[@piotr7208]

Another great interview. Now it's time for Stewart Copeland! He's one of the greatest drummers ever and also a fantastic storyteller!

[@OMGWTFLOLSMH]

Stewart's interview will have to be at least 4 hrs long he talks so much.

[@Frip36]

Lucky for us he's an American so his stories are told with a loud and clear voice, instead of trailing off sentences mumbling into his chest. @@OMGWTFLOLSMH

[@soniccucumber6639]

I bet you already know

[@OnantheContrarian]

This is more than just an interview - it's a document. A great record of an amazing time in music. Thanks Rick, Andy for your time doing this.

[@ericmehlenbeck7881]

I'd have to agree! This is such an amazing and wonderful conversation. This documentation needs to be cherished!

[@1234saul]

I knew Andy was older, but never knew he was ground zero for English Rock. What an amazing interview. I think it is the best interview you have ever done, which is not an easy accomplishment.

[@patrickmcgrogan6870]

I agree. 😊

[@superhepu]

Andy is true storyteller. Modest guy. Thx of this.

[@diegopeart]

I've started a Police tribute band for the past 4 months and getting the drums right is one thing, getting the guitar right is HARD. Not many can do it well. Thank you for this interview, Rick. Andy is a worldwide treasure.

[@evanwalters63]

His arpeggios are insane. The guy is a genius.

[@bmoremusic4768]

I haven't seen any Police tribute bands. I knew some local bands years ago that tried to play police songs but they never could get them right. What area are you playing in?

[@XKXKIXKXK]

​@@bmoremusic4768Going by your handle, there was a decent Police tribute band based out of Baltimore area that played a few times at the casinos in the Inner Harbor and at Arundel Mills. That was ten years ago or so...not sure if they are still active. At the time, they had a couple videos on YT.

[@escommentss]

Playing Message In a Bottle always killed my hand! My fingers don't naturally stretch like that. I actually play it in different positions where I don't have to stretch like that. LOL. I know the purists will think I'm cheating. Ha!

[@lextual]

I’ve long encouraged guitarists to lay out the main arpeggio section as often as possible under the belief that you play it a few times, it get ingrained in the listener and they think they’re hearing it afterwards @@escommentss …

[@musicalSFCat]

This is like an early musical Christmas gift. To have legendary Andy Summers on your stellar channel. He's had such a wondrous impact in the music world. Thank you kindly, Andy & Rick. Cheers.

[@t.m.stephens3976]

Hands down the best Rock star interview I have ever set through! I can't believe Andy was willing to sit down and talk for an hour and 40 minutes! Good job Rick.

[@ianhesford]

I can’t believe how lucky we are that there is a channel like this.

[@gregivey183]

A little eccentric englishman A giant legacy of musicianship The love he has for music and the Police being a stepping stone in his career......funny , sarcastic , humble What a top bloke......

[@TKDunn-qq7kd]

It kills me when people credit everything The Police ever accomplished to Sting - he's no doubt a true genius, but c'mon, Andy Frickin' Summers is such a monster (and Stewart's no slouch either!). A true synergistic blend of unique talents. Listening to Andy as a budding guitarist took me in directions I never would have found otherwise - just a huge influence and such a smart player... great interview Rick!

[@154chairsmissing]

Omfg. Rick you’ve got Andy Summers on your show. This is completely amazing, the man is a legend. The inspiration behind countless guitarists. Imagine the music world without him. Rick, I cannot thank you enough.

[@lesleylesley5821]

He's great, got to be the easiest interview imaginable. I love Brits like this, they are so friendly and easy to talk to, great sense of humor. Fantastic interview.

[@Gr8Layks]

Rick, I think what you’re doing right now is as important as what Moses Asch did almost a century ago with his Folkways recordings. He introduced me to Woody Guthrie, the Carter Family, Doc Watson, et al. Your production are capturing the stories and details behind very important artists of our era. I hope you know how valuable these interviews will be to future generations! Your interview style is impeccable too. You listen, and gracefully and artfully draw the best from your guests. Thank you!

[@RickBeato]

Thanks 🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@TheJMHenn1]

@@RickBeato please please I beg you to do a song breakdown on Quarantine by Mutemath, or anything by Mutemath. Paul Meany is such an incredible producer flying under the radar.

[@Buschcat]

100%!!!

[@MnBicycleCommuter]

I agree 100% about the future importance of Rick’s amazing interviews.

[@hangedman821]

@@MnBicycleCommuter What no one ever sees....is the subtle manipulation going on behind the scenes. We are told all these artists just happened to hang out at Laurel Canyon......BY CHANCE! And the Police just happened to get a gig at CBGB'S with SIX SONGS! Total manipulation and back stories from Andy.....all manipulated. However.....some of us plebs....now see behind the curtain Andy : )

[@lucasuribe7207]

Summers is such a great dude, met him twice and he was very humble and friendly, and what a guitar player he is. He instantly became one of my favorites of all time, without a doubt.

[@robertwinship8367]

Saw him last month in a small theater with about 75 people. He was so down to earth and conversational. Just an awesome experience…

[@CaliforniaBushman]

I never knew Andy was on the London Scene with all the heavyweights in the 60's - he's the same age, makes complete sense. Oh man, the stories! He was even there when Hendrix played Sgt Pepper the day after it came out (Paul McCartney was there and tells this story!) What a gift to have Andy in your studio to tell us all this guitar history & lore, Rick.

[@MobiusBandwidth]

that floored me that he was at that gig too! historic.

[@curbozerboomer1773]

What is so cool, is that Jimi's playing that tune is actually on film! I feel that his actual playing Sgt Pepper that night, was not his greatest effort, despite how much Paul goes on about it. But it was a very cagey choice of tune to start with!

[@romanfields7900]

Andy reminds me of Paul.

[@toddk576]

36 minutes in - the greatest pearl for any musician... "Never play what the other guy in the band is playing..." Brilliant!

[@michaelshearer3559]

Incredible, he is one of those unique guitar players who is extremely hard to copy, unbelievably original, and amazing talented. His guitar style, writing is equally as important as Sting's voice and bass lines that define the Police and catapulted them to stardom.

[@RobretBertram]

Police Zenyatta Mondatta showcases Andrew James Summers stellar guitar work!!

[@41illusion]

Andy Summers is one of the few guitarists whose playing always challenged me like no other when I tried practicing his work in Police songs. He's much more advanced in guitar than some may or may not realize.

[@trebleboost7]

His comment about time feel is spot on - chops are meaningless without it.

[@RichRobinson]

Totally. He’s a classy player. No need for stunts. All about the songs. ❤

[@andydixon2980]

What a joy to watch. Rick Beato is the ultimate interviewer of musicians. Andy Summers and the Police are a gift to the music world.

[@willdean_asfx]

Just a pure Gem of a person. Musically articulate, genuine and passionate. One of my hero's. Truly inspirational. Thank you both!!

[@JennVix]

Rick, this is incredible! I was as shocked as you were when I saw where RS put him on the best guitarists list. He should have been near the top; he is an absolute legend! When I was 15, I got to meet Andy at the arena where my grandpa was the construction manager; I had an all-access backstage pass. Andy spent time that day talking music and eating snacks with me. He even showed me his rig, and the Roland Guitar Synth! I will never forget how kind, intelligent, and brilliantly talented he is, and how he made time for me; just a kid with a dream of being a musician. I also called him later on, during the recording of Synchronicity, in Montserrat. He remembered me, and talked with me on the phone about how things were going during the recording sessions. I'm honored to have had these conversations with him. I adore him, and always will! The Police are one of the best bands ever, and they were my favorite band when I was growing up. I still listen to them all of the time.

[@tincansailor9437]

Over my years of playing, the better I get, the less I actually play if you take my meaning. These lists of greatest of all time put too much focus on flash and solo virtuosity and less on actually functioning in a band. I'd list Mike Campbell as another who knows how to be a member of the band and worries less about showing off. Restraint is excellence!

[@todd8155]

@JennVix - I love hearing stories of famous people that are down to earth, don't let the fame go to their head, and have time for the little people. From my understanding, Allan Houldsworth was like this too. How inspiring!

[@JennVix]

@@todd8155 i’ve never met Allan, but I’ve heard nothing but good things about him. I almost got to see him play before he passed. I’m sad that I did not get the opportunity.

[@todd8155]

​@@JennVix- I got to see Allan about 3 times in small clubs around LA. One time I was eating dinner with him about 5 feet away playing his set. One time I saw him in the parking lot after a show and I said Hello and thanked him for the concert. He was totally polite and humble. I'll have to check out your music. If you have a taste for Allan then I will probably like your music!

[@mackenziearchitects]

Every tv executive on the planet should be sat in front of a screen and made to watch this. A competent interviewer who loves the topic and is skilled in his own right, happy to ask very few questions just to keep it rolling, time and space to develop the conversation and a guest who is smart enough to know how hard he worked, what he was trying to achieve, and spoke well of his team-mates. (for those in the UK, I'm particularly thinking of Soccer broadcasting ha ha). What a fantastic effort by both Rick and Andy, and special gratitude to Andy for being so open. I was around (not a musician) when the Police first burst on the scene about maybe 6-9 months after punk exploded and on hearing their subtle chords, thought they'll get called out as frauds because it was clear they were MUSICIANS !! The drum patterns, the bass lines, the fifths, elevenths, nobody in punk could barely figure out a middle eight. So great to hear how decanting to NYC on not much more than a whim, gave them the space to breathe and be prepare to take on the world. Well done Rick.

[@PAlex-us4ov]

You make a good point however, I don't think 'tv execs' care about providing interesting and informative interviews. If they did they would be shown regularly on tv. They only care about pitching products during their 'infotainment' segments. Its all about maximizing revenue. Who cares anyway? TV is forever now a dead medium. Great interview by Rick though.

[@petesorenson9922]

Time after time Rick is able to say a few words of direction which leads to the interviewee discussing at length The intimate and deep corners of their musical upbringing. Not sure how you get so much out of these legends by saying so little. Hats off to you Rick I love your channel.

[@rafaelandrade7627]

It's what happens when both the interviewer and the interviewed REALLY know what they are talking about

[@johnpaikopoulos7691]

What an incredible interview. I could listen to Andy Summers for hours, wow! 👏🏽

[@caleshtcincredibles]

As a 61 year old guitar geek that was ear candy. Andy is such an amazing player and human being , loved those stories . You did it again Rick !

[@MIMMarketing]

I saw Andy Summers do a jazz set at the Paris hotel in Las Vegas many years ago. Some people at a table near the front kept talking to each other and being a little loud, Andy stopped the playing and embarrassed them. They got up and left. Everyone clapped. ❤❤❤❤❤

[@bartonlambert9499]

What a great speaker - great stories, accents, humor, insights - I was riveted and sad when it ended. And what a lovable, charming person. He's obviously the glue that held the Police together as long as he could. A legend and a genius. Take him up on his offer, Rick! Again next week!!!

[@PeteWangen]

Outstanding work Rick. I admire your success and talents.

[@GingerDrums]

he started out with a single viral video and transformed it into a globaly relevant interview series. Incredible work.

[@Syclone0044]

What was the single viral video!?

[@amhoody]

I love how highly he speaks about his bandmates and their musical gifts. Very cool interview, great job Rick!

[@suedeface]

I saw Andy play at a club and some drunk kept yelling "play Roxanne". Eventually that guy was removed...and that instant Andy played Roxanne.

[@kingkongz88]

Perfect

[@jerzaw]

🤣

[@feloniousmonk3049]

Typically British and understated.

[@wadems]

Lol

[@thomasluby1754]

He does have a good sense of humor. Good/funny story.

[@ruvikferrer8298]

I finished watching the video without missing a single part. During his recounting of long-ago stories, I felt as if I were also there. New generation of music is not my cup of tea. I prefer to listen to hymns from the past because they tell stories that connects you to their life story. Your KZbin channel is a valuable resource for bringing the history of music to life through interviews with pioneers, thank you. ❤

[@jimmykane_coach]

I hope that when I’m 80 years young I can still play guitar and am at least half as sharp, witty and cool as Andy! What an absolute legend!

[@theskintones]

hear hear

[@LanceThomasRecordProducer]

Brilliant, thanks Rick, being British, a guitarist and an engineer/producer age 57 you can probably appreciate just how much someone like Andy and the Police fills such a huge hole of influence in my life and career. It was a pleasure to watch and confirm he's without a doubt the real deal and an important part of our musical heritage. Wow! Thank-you.

[@blockeighteen1059]

Wow! Thank you Rick. Hands down, Andy’s book - One Train Later - is the best ever written about a life lived in rock’n’roll. Hearing him tell these stories is an incredible privilege.

[@geographyinaction7814]

Tremendous book!

[@dancarter482]

When Rick asked about tuning I was itching for Andy to recount the story of bashing his headstock on the wall on his way to the stage and having to tune up before the second song .. .. ...

[@MobiusBandwidth]

that book is amazing, I was surprised Rick didn't ask about his stint in the Animals. but there's so much to cover, the Hendrix story was more important. I hope he pops by next weekend!

[@malcolmmellon8692]

I just realised in the middle of this interview just how uniquely valuable this whole series is. We are hearing in depth from the musicians who formed the soundtrack of our lives. It's nice that they can all respect their interviewer so they can just talk their hearts out about their musical lives. Great!

[@aussieguru01]

He was so generous with his time and a great storyteller too. Thank you, Rick & Andy.✌️✌️

[@lesleylesley5821]

An interviewers dream.

[@damamae950]

I love Andy Summers' guitar work. There's nothing else like it - I don't think he gets enough recognition

[@0not.an.it.guy0]

I think there are hundreds of millions of record buyers to prove you wrong. They all may not have understood what he was doing, musically speaking, but there were only three guys in that band, and his guitar parts were intuitive and finely crafted and framed Sting's voice and lyrics perfectly. Plenty of the rest of us with ears for what he could do sought out his other work after the Police. He's had a good post-Police career.

[@Villa-Pasirbaru]

...I recall as a teenager watching "The Police Live 1980 Don Kirshner's Rock Concert" and being blown away by how 3 talented individuals could captivate and produce such amazing music...they remain my favorite band...!

[@gergemall]

I can remember having amps with no reverb. Then came reverb, whaw W. Pedal , fuzzface. And that’s it .

[@geoffpoole483]

"Rock Goes to College", a British series showing gigs at UK universities featured the Police. Well worth a watch.

[@andykordsmeier]

Andy and that band were a massive part of my youth and still are. Loved that band. Great talk. Loved every second of it.

[@mesri3]

Every time there's a new Beato interview, that artist reaches more ears and gets more replays to older ears.

[@zesvo]

Boo hoo for the blockers.

[@klaushjerrild]

This was a real treat. Andy Summers is such an original musician and a very sweet, funny and laidback kind of person...very sympathetick. His story about his visit to George Martin was a storytelling masterclass. Thanks to Rick for sharing.

[@jimferris9447]

Andy seems like a truly kind guy. While he acknowledged his and the Police’s accomplishments (there were many), he also came across as humble as well. And he knows that a lot of people with talent never have the good fortune that he’s had. At the end he said “Thank you, Lord” which shows that he is grateful and does not take his fame, fortune or talent for granted.

[@keithgriggs9890]

This man just keeps knocking these interviews out of the park. Thank you, Rick.

[@Breakbeats92.5]

His choice of chords are permanently etched into my mind. The soundtrack to my youth. Me and my dad both loved The Police.

[@lucansimone]

When I was a child my aunt introduced me to the Police, my favourite song was "De Do Do Do De Da Da Da". I started playing the guitar because of Andy Summers, and I still play every day. Thank you Andy and of course thank you Rick!

[@psh6654]

What a wealth of information from Andy Summers, a true artistic talent. His old hands still spread across the fretboard like butter. Unbelievable. Thanks, Rick, for scoring on the interview. It made my day.

[@tunnel7]

The finest three piece band ever and will never be repeated 3 guys that just gelled musically. just Brilliant works.