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

Andy Summers is a celebrated English guitarist and composer, best known for his work with the iconic rock band The Police. His innovative approach to guitar, characterized by a distinctive use of effects and a unique, textural style, played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of The Police during their rise to fame in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Summers’ skillful integration of rock, reggae, and jazz influences helped create timeless hits like “Every Breath You Take” and “Message in a Bottle.”
His contributions to music have been recognized with several awards, including induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Andy Summers remains a revered figure in the music world, celebrated for his innovative playing style and enduring influence on contemporary guitar music.
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[@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!

[@cliftondavis6192]

Well said😎

[@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??

[@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.

[@marcoalessandro2034]

i got to stop it now...saving the rest for another day...i was thirteen FCS

[@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 🥁 ❤😊

[@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!

[@marniesutton9553]

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!

[@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.

[@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.

[@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. 😎

[@aussieguru01]

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

[@lesleylesley5821]

An interviewers dream.

[@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 💯

[@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!

[@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......

[@gustely]

...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.

[@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!

[@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..

[@user-yk8ns6yf1y]

@@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.

[@superhepu]

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

[@user-rb4ip7ki7u]

The Police and Men At Work music had a way of making me feel that I was on a sunny tropical beach in a cool breeze with 74° temp. It carried me at times during my stressful HS years. I sang several song by The Police during my HS years with my band.

[@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.

[@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!

[@Ascendantmusic]

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

[@dan_gabriel]

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

[@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.

[@MichaelCGatesMusic]

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

[@Bunkymark]

As if we needed being reminded how original and creative Andy Summers is, both musically and non-musically. Very well done, like a good movie.

[@AlejandroMS67]

Those of us who know don't need to be reminded (but it doesn't hurt), what really needs to be spread though is what a master he is and the depth of his experience, which not many people know, but they should know.

[@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.

[@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

[@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

[@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.

[@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.

[@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!

[@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

[@GOLDENFLYWARRIOR]

Has Andy Summers ever wtitten a book? Such an intelligent man. When he says The Police were like The Bestles of the 80s for a few years I couldn't agree more. I just wish they were more like The Rolling Stones in staying together. Love their music on their own YET they should gave made more music together. ❤❤❤

[@howardstark]

I'm sure you'll be happy to know that Andy has written several books! If you're looking for his autobiography, it's called "One Train Later" and it was published in 2006. If you're looking for something that showcases his love for photography, he has several of them: "Throb" (1983), "I'll Be Watching You: Inside the Police 1980-83" (2007), "Desirer Walks the Streets" (2009), "A Certain Strangeness" (2019), and "A Series of Glances" (2023). Finally, if you're looking for a collection of his short stories (45 in total), then there is "Fretted and Moaning" (2021). Hope you find this helpful!

[@zulutwenty5546]

I've always admired his playing and tone but had absolutely no idea he was a contemporary of Hendrix etc. Incredible!

[@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 😉

[@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😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊

[@rodolpheponthus2948]

This interview is music history

[@msudragon91]

The Police...great songwriter/singer + great guitarist + great drummer = great band.

[@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.

[@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

[@rogersjgregory]

What a brilliant interview. Thank you Andy for being so open, and for the generosity of your time, but also for the music that you helped shape. Your music will outlast us all.

[@samwacker5075]

One evening in 1966 or ( or was it '67 ) I met Andy Summers, Zoot Money, Chuck Berry and Spike Milligan at the original Cavern Club in Mathew Street, Liverpool. I was playing keyboard with a blues, soul, rock/ band. From memory the door money was going to the Royal School for the Blind, Liverpool. Spike was as manic as ever; Zoot was chatting with girls. Andy, Chuck, the guys from my band and myself ended up in The Grapes pub in Mathew Street. At 17 years old I was too young to drink and looked it, but managed to get a bitter shandy (beer but mostly lemonade). We sat around and Chuck Berry wrote "Good luck....." to my band on the inside of a Woodbine cigarette packet. He was so handsome and charming. Andy Summers had a white handmade jacket, probably from Saville Row in London, that had images from "Noddy and Big Ears" a children's story by Enid Blyton - a one-off, years before the rapid growth of merchandise. I'm guessing it was made from printed curtain or bedcover fabric. We thought Andy was so cool with that jacket and our lead guitairst sheepishly asked him what chords he played in one of their songs. (What's a 13th... ha ha). Andy was gracious to us amateurs. Having returned home from years in Asia I'll go to the Record Office sometime and check the microfilm for the Liverpool Echo. They used to print the names of all the bands playing in all the Liverpool venues. The Cavern had a regular advert. It was very warm as I remember so 1966/1967 May to September months to check! Happy days.

[@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.

[@frasercathygartside1356]

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!

[@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!

[@CrazyHenkie777]

This interview is golden! Probably the best I've ever seen in my 56 years on this planet! Keep doing the good stuff Rick. May God bless you!

[@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! 👏👏

[@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 :)

[@brucecall1595]

Andy may not be aware of the effect of eddie murphy singing "roxanne" "Put on the red light"sitting in his jail cell as reggie hammond in the epic movie 48 hours. Legend.

[@ThePsho]

I recently heard Stewart Copeland's story about how he and Sting badly wanted Andy to join, but they thought he was essentially out of their league. That's such an awesome story to me, because when I think of that band, I first think Sting, because he's the front man with a singular name. Next I think of Copeland because, in my opinion, he's a top 10 all-time drummer. Maybe more accurately, percussionist. Which leaves Andy for last, but should he be? Should he be first? The way Copeland implied, he should be first. I tend to agree, which means he's probably one of the most, if not THE most, underrated guitarist of all time. I kind of equate it to Ringo. He doesn't immediately jump to mind as "one of the greatest," but think about what he did. He wrote/played exactly what the song needed. The old "less is more" thing, and sometimes, playing less is actually more difficult. Edit: fixed autocorrected word

[@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

[@druwk]

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

[@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.

[@PortofinoArts]

He has to play parts of those classic songs. Please get him back!

[@UjjayaEthnoambient]

Best interview . Andy Summers opened for Tangerine Dream with a very complex set of effects in 1988 promoting his album "Mysterious barricades" . It was disastrous as his gears betrayed him .Though I take "Mysterious barricades" as his highlight , Andy Summers declared hating new age music .

[@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.

[@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.

[@briandeeley1599]

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

[@alessandromorraco7420]

Rick , your a excellent interviewer! Andy Summers is is an icon! As well as a excellent musician!

[@MattMicucci]

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

[@nickpaz9113]

That entire band was genius. Each member was innovative

[@dbcopper10]

It's crazy to realize that when Roxanne, with it's reggae/punk/wave youthful vibe really smashed the charts in '79, that Sting and Stewart were already in their late 20's...and Andy was almost 37!

[@willielarsson9651]

Rick has created a platform that stars WANT to be seen on. Its incredible. So many amazing shows.

[@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.

[@kdenn71]

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

[@Solicitor1957]

Fantastic! And that man is 80. He could pass for 60 easy. What a marvellous interview.

[@glennw9927]

Police = biggest part of the soundtrack of my youth. Lucky enough to have seen them live on 3 tours. I enjoyed every second of this interview.

[@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. ❤❤❤❤❤

[@tictocbang7443]

How the heck is he going to be 81 this month?! LOVE his playing. I was lucky to see The Police several times at the height.

[@sdi87hhk]

He’s able to express himself twice as good as most people half his age, what a force of nature!

[@MisterCross]

Same age as Paul McCartney, which is crazy.

[@istvangranicz5082]

still looks mentally so sharp

[@frankelias1952]

I grew up listening to the Police. My dad was a huge fan. Its funny that after they didn't make albums anymore I always was under the impression that they hated each other. After 40 years, I'm just now finding after these interviews that's they are very gracious about one another, makes me feel really good about the whole Police nostalgia. I'd be happy meeting Rick and picking his brain let alone Andy, Sting and Stewart, lol

[@Topnikko]

This has to be one of the best interviews I've ever seen. Andy Summers is a true treasure and we are all lucky for his indelible contribution to music.

[@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. ❤

[@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 🙏🏻

[@aidansmyth6480]

Just one of those 'all things are connected' asides. The studio in the UK where The Police recorded their first album which Andy refers to at length here is Surrey Studios in Leatherhead, Surrey, UK. At the time of their weekend recordings, Godley and Creme (ex-10cc gurus) were also recording their 2nd album as a duo, entitled 'L'. Both Lol Creme and Kevin Godley were local to the area at the time (Godley having bought Keith Moon's previous home, now lived in by Vince Clarke of Yazoo and Erasure fame). G&C and The Police bonded and, after the failure of 'L' to achieve any kind of success, and upon knowing of G&C's art school background, The Police invited G&C to make videos for them. The videos connected to The Police's first album helped immensely to boost the band's profile but also saw G&C emerge as the premier video artists of the decade. I also hear Stewart Copeland and Kevin Godley remain the best of friends, as is Trevor Horn, who Lol Creme worked with latterly under the umbrella of 'The Art of Noise'.

[@Dave062YT]

As a teenager living in London I can remember the first time I heard Police .It was dj Nicky Horn on Capital radio ,I was in the bath ,heard Roxanne jumped out to find out who the hell it was and music was never quite the same again ,they were that different and that good.

[@betsyduane3461]

Most people don't realize how much older he was than the rest of the Police. He's the same age as Mick Jagger. He was seeing Hendrix in 1967 when Sting was just 15.

[@JennVix]

When I met him as a child, he was almost 40, but he did not seem to be that age. He's unreal!

[@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

[@milolabrett6549]

That was absolute magic and I didn’t want it to end. Thank You Rick and Andy.

[@taxmechanic4309]

The Police Picnic in Oakville was amazing. I was 21 and rockin' into the morning. Now I'm 63 and rockin' to KZbin, still feels great!!!!!

[@entropyenjoyer6711]

Grow up 😂😂 imagine being still into the police lmao

[@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.

[@vantarpon6849]

Adding Andy Summers to Stewart/Sting's punk band was like adding Jaco to Weather Report. Just made it explode and become something truly unique and timeless.

[@tostare]

These stories about Clapton and Hendrix and stuff - just amazing.

[@williamfrost9910]

Listening to Andy Summers taught me so much about writing for the guitar. He took us into uncharted territory, but not with anything radical, like he was showing us something that was right in front of us that we hadn't even noticed.

[@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!

[@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

[@BestChinaInfo]

Nice to see music-centric interviews.. and to see Andy Summers interviewed.. He remains as humble as he ever was.. Andy Summers is a hugely underrated guitar player (and composer!) The Police would never have happened but for his exquisite playing and composing. N.B. He never received full credit, neither artistically (or financially!) for the work he put in to The Police. Sting owes him.. Bigtime..

[@sactvnews8707]

Great interview. Out of all the rockers in their 80s, Andy looks the youngest .. and his coherent & insightful presentation shows he's way ahead of the music curve. I'd rather hear The Police all day instead of ANY of today's "pop hits."

[@HHGary]

You've had Sting and Andy, now time to get Stewart!!!

[@RussInCanada]

Always loved his solo in Driven To Tears. Almost sounds like it was played backwards.

[@lorenzo6mm]

That's their best tune IMHO. Good call.

[@markpotochny56]

You know exactly when to ask a question and when to shut up and let the man talk excellent interview

[@Fluffysweep]

Wonderful interview.. As a UK teenager in the 80's, if you weren't into Punk or Ska beat, the Police meant everything to you.

[@beneunson]

Andy is brilliant. Thank you Rick!

[@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. ❤

[@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.

[@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!

[@fachiro1]

The best parts of the interview is when Andy starts reminicing about past conversatons and he goes into this old classic gritty British whisper.......everytime!!!!

[@derekedgley5074]

I’m 80 and no matter what genre of guitar playing has ensued or been discussed through my lifetime, reverence is always given, when Andy Summers guitar playing is mentioned. Fabulous interview and will go down as one of your most memorable.

[@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!!!

[@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!!

[@ldhorricks]

Andy has towering guitar chops...his voiceings are sublime...and his stretches tortuous

[@toddk576]

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

[@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. 😊

[@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.