The Police's Stewart Copeland: 'Sting was a golden shaft of light' | Gold

The Police drummer @StewartCopelandOfficial talks to Gold's James Bassam about his new album, working with old sparring partner Sting, and his love of Ringo Starr.
#ThePolice #StewartCopeland #Sting #1980s #1980smusic #interview

[@JohnMoran]

I met Stewart years ago, and didn't know who he was. I went on and on about myself, as a composer. He listened to my work, talked about my ideas. And never once said 'Do you know who I am?' Later, when I learned who he was, I was shocked at his humility and patience with an arrogant young guy like myself.

[@DoctorJezz]

That's seriously cool and the measure of a man - says more than anything - thanks for posting that 👍 👍

[@gmar7836]

Awwww

[@censored7881]

@@DoctorJezz I agree; OP is a douche.

[@elbettto]

Wooow! I would know from the first second who he is... Cause I am a big fan of him! Thanks for sharing that story!

[@fridaylong2812]

I bet he loved being able to talk with you, someone who DIDN'T know who he was. Someone who just wanted to talk music.

[@marymiller8769]

Amazing- a rocker who doesn’t look like death, can still speak and shows interest in others. A revelation!

[@crapple009]

Refreshingly tattoo-free as well. A true individual and unabashedly so.

[@hugorojas1452]

Oh, wow, so perfectly said!!

[@martinbladelvan1949]

You will probably like Rory Gallagher too🙂

[@RicardoMartinez-oh9sq]

He is beyond a rocker. One can call him a scientific drummer, as when playing in Tokyo, Japan in 2008.

[@dannygray-mi3xn]

Stewart is a genuine, down to Earth legend.

[@John-xh9ul]

Stewart is clearly one of the coolest guys on the planet... Smart, funny, talented, humble. Loved this

[@JimBobsonJones007]

Klark Kent is just as cool.

[@dawnpaap7704]

I had the biggest crush on him when I was a teen.

[@edp3202]

The Police would never had had their success without Andy and Stewart. They were invaluable to the Police's jazz/reggae/ska/rock sound that Sting has never IMO risen above as a solo artist. Stewart is such a great musician/composer/arranger/producer.

[@poliziagrammaticale9430]

*would have never had Without Sting's songs nobody now would know who Copeland and Summers are. Songwriting is everything. Forget about a single musician's virtuosity (which most people don't even appreciate). Nobody cares about the sophisticated Dm9 in Walking on the moon. People love it because it's a damn good song, and it's Sting's, like all the other ones.@@edp3202

[@bonzoleum]

Absolutely. A living legend. I remember watching The Police Around The World many years ago where Stewart says “I’m an arrogant twat!” I think it was at the Zenyatta photo shoot.

[@Shikta-poobah67]

The thing I love most about Stewart is just how *REAL* and unpretentious he is. In that way, he was always the perfect foil to Sting’s loftiness. I mean let’s face it… Sting could get a bit ostentatious at times, but then there’s Stewart, bringing it all back down to earth and keeping things grounded. He looks great for a 71 year old, and he’s still sharp as a tack and can still pound those skins like few others can. One of the top drummers of all time. Just a wonderful, talented, interesting and intelligent person. May he live to 100 or more.

[@markmisiti8772]

What a great guy!

[@billjones3720]

Here, here.

[@andrewmair7371]

Fair points… & I’m not the BIGGEST Sting fan, but he DID write the stuff 🤷🏻‍♂️ Anyone can practice X amount of hours per day & play… the real artistry is in its creation imho -☝️😆🤣

[@huntermcmurray9326]

​@@andrewmair7371Stewart wrote quite a few of the songs as well

[@groovytrev]

​@@andrewmair7371each of them were very good at improvising and using their different tastes/experiences in music to combine and produce their sound. Sting was certainly the stand out songwriter however it was the combination of him with Stewart and Andy that made The Police what they were.

[@hkdaredevil2463]

One of the greatest drummers of all time, Stewart Copeland. Living legend.

[@cc92103]

I became a fan when I saw Rumble Fish with Mickey Rourke/Matt Dillon. Stewart wrote the amazing music.

[@0oo00]

Dumbest comment ever. Name his contenders.

[@lorenzoblum868]

​@@cc92103 the only legitimate existence about the comment section : learning new things. Thank you. I will check it out.

[@lorenzoblum868]

​@@drdalewisely definitely not among Police afficionados...

[@abandonlife111]

His autobiography is the height of pomposity and frivolous self-referential masturbation.

[@user-ks3ol3lw3b]

I've never heard Stewart speak before - what an intelligent, pleasant man. I could listen to him all day.

[@user-qr8ki8ue4i]

He's super-frenetic. I doubt you could listen to him all day. :) Maybe an hour or two?

[@crBudgetWatches]

First time for me too. I don't know why I pictured him as arrogant but he is as humble and enjoyable to listen to.

[@louissanderson719]

There are loads of videos of him. Go down the Stewart rabbit hole

[@ZENmud]

Aaron's son...

[@ArtHoward]

He was good friends with Neil Peart of Rush. Listening to him, I'm not surprised. Like Neil, a very bright and engaging guy with a great speaking voice.

[@sailingrumrunner]

Just watched Rick Beato's interview with Andy Summers. Phenomenal musician. Both Andy and Stewart redefined how rock was played in the 70's. Both had the freshest idea of how to play their instruments differently than any other at the time. Stewart's high hat works were phenomenal and Andy never played bar chords. Sting was amazing at playing syncopated bass lines while singing totally different melody. One of the best bands of all time.

[@eelko-jan]

Summers is one of my favourite guitarists, but as a guitarists myself I do have to say that he actually did play bar chords 😀. Not many but the chorus of Message in a Bottle comes to mind

[@curcumin417]

Beato just posted his Stewart Copeland interview!

[@andparfitt1564]

'Never played bar chords' - Have you ever played his songs. Try playing eg Message in a bottle chorus

[@Nichi-Ji]

Also check out the chords in “When the world is running down” it’s just a straight bar across 5 strings going up in whole steps

[@IvanRx76]

The guy is a genius, killer drummer. He's been a massive influence for me, and I'm a bassist. His drumming with the police, is a superb work!!

[@Shikta-poobah67]

I’m also a bassist who was heavily influenced by Stewart. Bass players should be paying attention to the drums. We’re one half of the rhythm section after all.

[@franticj67]

Same. I'm a bassist and stewie is my hero.

He's not a drummer. He's a musician, who plays percussion. But I know what u mean...lol

[@carmenelmo8650]

No doubt ....👍👍👍

[@Doubleoseven502]

I could watch and listen to him all day.

[@LzCoda]

I love Stewart's intelligence, humor, and humility.

[@alfching2499]

Yer he seems a good bloke.

[@dieseldust27]

Very intelligent

[@rowanbirch5391]

The last word to describe Stewart would be humble. He is intelligent and funny though.

[@justinafuchs2619]

@@rowanbirch5391You’re absolutely right. Stewart Copeland is intelligent, funny and a great drummer. But he sure as hell isn’t humble. Sometimes it seems people just repeat the same attributes over and over - let’s go, I heard them before and some may even fit ..

[@UKMikey]

@@nicksterj "If you don't like my arrogance, you can suck my socks!" -- "Don't Care"

[@rogacien666]

2 things that never get old : the police music and hearing Stewart in interview...

[@anndavis2920]

Yes indeed!

[@s.sommerauer898]

Copeland's comment about Sting and the shaft of golden light is 100% spot on! I saw someone crossing the street once, someone glowing.... . "Who IS that?" I asked myself - "Look, it's Sting!" someone near me commented, and I thought... "Oh, no wonder!" Charisma! Light! Never saw anything like that again!

[@FDupp-og1mi]

They're are entities in this world that do not die. They often choose to be rock/movie stars, as they love to be worshipped.

[@NeurogenicMT]

He looks amazing for 70.

[@coolcat23]

I'm glad Stewart gave Andy the recognition he deserves. He is sometimes a bit overlooked between the brilliance of the drummer and the "bass playing element", but he was incredibly important to what "The Police" were. What a miracle trio they were.

[@thewomble1509]

Yes. Summers always struck me as the most interesting and grounded of the three. I'm sure he can be as egotistical and arsey as anyone else when he feels like it but he never seemed to chase the limelight like Sting and Copeland did. He also (imo) wrote the best of the three memoirs (One Train Later) which is a really engaging read. Great musician too.

[@misterghee1]

His solo albums😅😅😅🎉🎉🎉

[@alukuhito]

That's weird. I've never overlooked Andy Summers. Back in 1982 or something, when I was totally into the Police, I knew that Andy was a really important element, and the most established, wanted musician when the Police started.

[@billium99]

I feel like they and Rush put the power in Power Trio.

[@Repomidnight]

Andy’s guitar part is the foundation for “Every Breath”, which is their most famous song. Sting’s lyrics were great and Stewart brilliant as always, but Andy always underrated, and this is just one example.

[@pellelindbergh4455]

Copeland is 70 years old????!!!! man he looks GREAT !!

[@sirgalahad3574]

This guy has "chops". Great tenor to his voice, positive attitude, respect for art and respect for his elders. Very impressed.

[@spooge33]

Saw The Police in a club in 1978. Still listening today at age 62.

[@peterturnball8310]

What a fantastic bloke Stewart Copeland is. Witty, down to earth, charismatic, and full of humility.

[@DJCoachCookie68]

Gotta get rid of that Transatlantic accent tho lol! 🤭

[@JimBobsonJones007]

He did live in England, so I guess he is a bloke.

[@exclamationpointman3852]

Yes.

[@lws7394]

@@DJCoachCookie68 What accent would you like him to speak, then ?! His mother is from Edinburgh, His father from Atlanta, but he grew up in the Middle East (As his old man was CIA) .

[@Shikta-poobah67]

@@DJCoachCookie68But he’s literally the product of a transatlantic upbringing. Why would he want to change his accent?

[@surfwriter8461]

I'm very impressed with how humble, intelligent and down-to-earth Copeland is, and how congenial and articulate he is in the interview.

[@CarlosMunoz-hw1zj]

This dude reminds me of a musical Anthony Bourdain. I could listen to him talk about music for days on end.

[@jimcarter2092]

Yes! I agree also. This is the 3rd Copland interview I've watched and Can't get enough, the man is smart And so very funny, I love his natural humor. 😊

[@achenarmyst2156]

I remember hearing Regatta de Blanc for the first time being blown away by that drumming part, the energy, the precision, the inventiveness. Stewart is a legend and a blessing.

[@DouglasRichardson-er4ky]

There are certain drummers one knows their sound as soon as one hears it Stuart is definitely one of those drummers

[@revwillyg6450]

Yes, when you see old live performances of the Police, Stewart is always very busy on that kit

[@Shikta-poobah67]

For me, the drums have always been the standout feature in The Police’s overall sound. That’s what really drew me in to their music in the beginning, and it’s still the part that moves me most. No disrespect to Andy and Sting’s abilities. I just think Stewart is the real star of the show.

[@mikepastor.k6233]

​​@@Shikta-poobah67Andy's guitar is also unique. Very minimalist and angular approach. Even Sting's bass is great combined with all the other instruments.

[@Shikta-poobah67]

@@mikepastor.k6233 As I said, no disrespect to the other members. My point was it was the drums that caught my attention first and foremost.

[@IrnBruNYC]

Sting is a genius. But Stewart is the one would want to have dinner with. This is a fantastic interview.

[@patrickflanagan8008]

Stewart Copeland, one amazing, original, totally unique drummer. Praise him, praise him.

[@janb.281]

Fully agree! He made The Police!!!

[@rubberbiscuit99]

Protect him at all costs.

[@0oo00]

Wow, just no standards, huh?

[@gmar7836]

Yes, but stop using the word amazing

[@exclamationpointman3852]

GOD bless him. May he play before the LORD.

[@johnqpublic2013]

He sends shivers up and down my spine, what a treasure. His energy is infectious. I love you Stewart!

[@JeffBostick222]

Someone who knows their place in the universe. Humility is a quality we all could use more of. Happy he mentioned Mitch Mitchell! Both he and Noel Redding helped define Hendrix's sound.

[@doctorbuga4302]

LOL, have you ever wondered what's wrong in your head to write these kind of comments? Introspection.

[@JeffBostick222]

@@doctorbuga4302 Uhhh ????

[@doctorbuga4302]

@@JeffBostick222 sorry Jeff, not to you, I sent to the dude above me who now doesn't have a comment and now i look like an imbecile.

[@JeffBostick222]

@@doctorbuga4302 copy

[@moseyalong1]

Stewart Copeland is one of the most interesting interviews, ever. Totally humble !

[@ccrider8483]

And very well spoken.

[@martinheath5947]

His father was CIA

[@sub-jec-tiv]

Yeah he has said numerous times his dad was CIA

[@alessandrodecarli2462]

Indeed!!! He’s like “the simple, humble and brilliant LEGEND who live next to you”!…😂😂😂😂😂

[@GeoffBosco]

​@brainswashedthisways Not only CIA, but kind of a big deal/founder when it became the CIA, or something like that iirc.

[@Ishai1]

He said Sting wasn't arrogant at all and the title says "Sting was arrogant from birth", do you really need that clickbait lie? edit: Thanks for updating the title. Copeland's name is clickbait enough for many of us. Him talking about the Police early days is also good enough. Don't really need anything else...

[@goof260]

Yeah I wondered about that too. Didn't make sense. If it was intentional, then that sucks.

[@junglismonk4256]

Title seems to have changed now?

[@musicmann1967]

Disappointing.

[@goof260]

@@junglismonk4256 good for them. Either caught with pants down or dumb mistake. I often see goofed up titles with misspellings too.

[@stlmopoet]

It still says that in the thumbnail.

[@r3ddirtr8r28]

Stewart Copeland is awesome! So modest yet he’s one of the most influential drummers of our day

[@Shikta-poobah67]

He’s also very self-deprecating. A trait that is sorely lacking with a lot of big time hyper-talented musicians. A lot of these guys get so accustomed to sycophants constantly stroking their egos and telling them how god-like they are, 24-7, that they can’t help but have overinflated opinions of themselves. It’s literally a struggle for them to stay grounded and humble, but Stew does it effortlessly. One of the many reasons he’s one of my heroes.

[@lilaccilla]

You were always Amazing on stage , I went to 3 Police concerts in Seattle and Tacoma wash in the 1980 s . I had all your albums at a time when I jumped rope for my workout . I thank you for helping me go the distance daily in my workouts to your music . Awesome Drummer 🙌🏼🙌🏼🙌🏼🙌🏼🙌🏼🫶🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👌🏼✌🏼 So glad you all had immense egos that pushed all of you to do what you did and do !

[@NoCanDu]

I miss The Police. Five albums aren’t enough! ❤ I could listen to Stewart talk for hours.

[@fgoindarkg]

And so could he.

[@mightyV444]

But at least one can say about *any* of their albums that it's among their Top 5 Police albums! 😁

[@hippiecolleen1352]

Blame Gordy

[@robbiemichael9386]

totally agree that they should have recorded more albums - even Andy Summers says the same. It was all down to Stingo I think. But hey we should be glad we got what we got.

[@doubled5383]

I hate myself for never seeing them live. Hate myself. Ugh.

[@benjaminjohnspencer1864]

What a legend. Had no idea he started the Police. From soundtracks to writing to his incredible precision and unique cymbal work, by far one of the most influential musicians still alive

[@andyhayes7828]

Cymbal work for sure, love that last verse ( 'Woke up this morning, don't believe what I saw" ,etc ) in 'Message In a bottle', his cymbal work was great there 🤘

[@jean-marcphelippeau5858]

He started the band, that's even why it is called The Police (because it's the Cops - Land)...

[@yepyep9113]

Cool comment, and I'd like to learn more, please. Non-drummer here, just a scrappy guitar player. Would it be posible to put into words what makes his cymbal work unique? And/or great? With the purpose of teaching me how to listen to drumming better. Thanks! And P.S. Anything more you or others would like to add about Stewart Copeland's drumming and how it fits into The Police's music would be most welcome. Cheers.

[@ShannonRamos]

​@@yepyep9113 "Unique cymbal work" I think translates to non-western rhythms, accents, and amazing hi-hat work. Stewart is a left handed drummer playing on a right handed kit, grew up among the mid eastern music of Egypt and Lebanon, his Dad made him learn correct rudiments and wanted him to be a jazz musician while his mom was listening to Stravinsky and Ravel. The Baladi rhythm is similar to Reggae and the music of the West Indies which is a clear influence. kzbin.info/www/bejne/pHOvqoSOfrWsrsk&ab_channel=Drumeo

[@almahperditae]

The Police was Copeland band. Sting was the Singer and composer, so it was his band. And Andy was the best musician and it was because of him that they took off. Só it was his band. All 3 of them saw the Police as their band. That's why they fight all the time. Very funny band. They get along just fine, it's clear they like each other, but they just keep fighting all the time, because they all think it's their band. And they all right. And to be true, i do believe that's what make them amazing. The fighting was what make them good. If they get along on the band, as they get along outside of her, the band just wasn't that good. It was the fighting and that mentality of "fuck you all, i'm better than you all" that make them great

[@mickthemerciless9694]

Not many musicians have such an identity in their style that they stand out and influence others and are instantly recognisable. Stuart is one of those generational gems.

[@Shikta-poobah67]

Yep. Exactly. When I first got into the Police, it was the drums that immediately got my attention. It still is, well after 40 years later. Stewart has always been the star of the show for me, no matter how much Sting has been in the headlines. I mean they were all great, Andy too… but the drumming is what put them over the top for me. Killer stuff.

[@cherylb2008]

Stewart has ALWAYS been so intelligent He is well spoken Good humor

[@Revelator2025]

Driven to Tears, Spirits in the Material World, One World, Roxanne…legendary drum parts. The inimitable Stewart Copeland.

[@joestefanoni5263]

Love his work on Walking on the Moon

[@CaseyMoo1]

The greatest hi-hat player EVER. NOBODY plays the hi-hat like Copeland. Great interviewee

[@feloniousmonk3049]

"Walking on the Moon" Andy's fills, one of a kind.

[@joelaurino1448]

Buddy Rich, Steve Smith, pretty good on that thing too, let me tell ya!

[@shovington67]

Copeland was such a huge hero during that New Wave explosion of the late 70's and early 80's. Most New Wave acts barely knew their instruments, and here comes a drummer with serious chops who is a drumming sponge , and learning everything he can about music from around the world. I first saw Copeland play at Police Picnic 1982 in Toronto. It was an incredible experience for a 14 year old me.

[@exclamationpointman3852]

Interesting

[@immortal2u]

“Most New Wave acts barely knew their instruments..” I think you confusing New Wave with Punk.. In any event, I wouldn’t say “most”, it seems pretty anecdotal that so many of these bands met in art school and weren’t quite as inept as you make them out to be.

[@adderon7476]

Neil Peart was probably at that gig if he wasn't touring with Rush

[@Shikta-poobah67]

@@immortal2u Well to be fair, there were also plenty of competent and talented musicians in punk as well as in new wave, as much as revisionists like Malcolm McLaren would have us believe otherwise, so… I dunno. Old myths and old stereotypes die hard, I suppose.

[@Afawk1987]

Crazy too when you remember that Andy Summers was older than George Harrison, Eric Clapton, Jimi Hendrix, basically every legendary sixties guitarist. And he shows up pushing the envelope.

[@keetmadu1054]

I was not a big Police fan back when they were active. But now I love the band. I guess my ears matured and appreciate how amazingly talented they are.

[@hilohaw]

I wasn't a fan when they were first hot, either. It took me a few years to learn to appreciate their music. It might've even been several years.

[@velvitjonze]

Have always loved Stewart’s energy and at 70 he still has it in spades

[@IvyMay-qn2ys]

Looks better than I did at 35!

[@MrBjorn6]

He does look incredible good white don't crack 😜

[@rd264]

hes got the health of a man under 50 .... its ridiculous.

[@andyroid5028]

*Yeah, he looks as if he is perhaps in his mid 50s, at most. Hard to believe he is actually 70 years old!* *He definitely looks and sounds **_WAY_** healthier than most folks entering their 7th decade of life. I bet he lives to (at least)100. And one last request: Stewart, please come to Atlanta sometime soon! You should allow Atlanta resident (and popular music-focused KZbin creator) Rick Beato... to interview you.* *_Well, just grateful to have seen this interview... and thanks very much to those of you who have read thus far. : )_*

[@AF-dn2bz]

it was a great interview, but how come he no longer has an English accent?

[@tedlytle790]

I hope I look that cool and energized in 11-years when I am 70. He is amazing! One of the best interviews I have heard.

[@boxingfan5742]

Wow! Stewart Copeland is 70? Talk about aging well. Him and Neil Peart are my all-time favorites.

[@waynefoote3781]

To me...this remains the most special 3 man group EVER! The songwriting, playing and chemistry remains UNTOUCHABLE!@

[@andygolborne5747]

Them and Rush and THE great 3 piece bands. But lightning in a bottle for The Police, definitely. Amazing.

[@alexandermills382]

Earlier on, Cream!

[@annaforehan7784]

Yes, the Cream win hands down in my opinion, closely followed by The JH Experience. And then there was The Jam.

[@waynefoote3781]

i just wonder if they had more hits than the Police?@@annaforehan7784

[@Blessedbeyondmeasur88]

Absolutely…favorite group of ALL time!

[@dwm1156]

One of the best drummers to grace modern stage and studios, same for his band, and a very interesting person.

[@SlumberSource]

He Is the greatest drummer that ever lived other than Neil Peart

[@billcompeau4835]

@@SlumberSource Neil was a big fan of Stew

[@SlumberSource]

@@billcompeau4835 yes he was.

[@floyd7146]

2 of the best! Copeland is an Intelligent musician, but very down to 🌎

[@sully2350]

Hope you don't mind me adding Neal Peart (of Rush fame) cited Stewart Copeland as one of his favorite drummers of all time.

[@outmodeR_]

Nice to hear someone talking about Mitch Mitchell - absolute monster drummer.

[@MrLuigiFercotti]

Copeland is probably my favorite drummer, so tasteful, rhythmic and on point. Plus he’s such a regular dude.

[@PeterAndersons]

Stewart Copeland is wonderful, such talent and personality.

[@adambradley3284]

I will never tire of listening to this man talk (or play drums).

[@RJasonKlein]

In addition to being one of the finest drummers in rock history, Stewart Copeland is a truly delightful man - thoroughly enjoyable!

[@lefkytheshin]

...in music history.

[@TheMichaelBeck]

The Police are one of my all time favorite bands and Stewart is a big reason why. Growing up in the 80s, listening to them, it was amazing.

[@teleespantoso]

Stewart Copeland is one of the most intriguing people to listen to. Never a dull moment. Epicness!

[@danieljulian4676]

He composed "Miss Gradenko". That alone makes him immortal. Plus, he plays rather well, and is the consummate raconteur!

[@gutgolf74]

That's not even his best Police song...

[@achenarmyst2156]

He plays rather well.............😂

[@sully2350]

What a different time period that was. Flying by the seat of our pants while listening to amazing bands like The Police. There was so much phenomenal talent in the music industry back then you just believed thats the way it is. Wasnt until the mid 90s when I realized those 30 years between 1960 and 1990 were not normal. They were pretty epic as far as music was concerned. This was just ONE band of many truly amazing bands we took for granted back then. God bless them. What talent and showmanship. Incredible.

[@phoenixzappa7366]

Now we have Lizzo 😢

[@29memyselfandi]

The Police, XTC, New Order, The Smiths, The Cure, Talk Talk, Talking Heads- the whole punk movement, New Wave, Indie.... just a brilliant time. Now there’s Ed Sheeran and yeah, Lizzo 😢

[@sully2350]

@@29memyselfandi Phenomenal list thank you! for sharing it. All epic artists. Groundbreaking. And the tip of the iceberg. Truly Amazing time period for music.

[@versnellingspookie]

All of you in this comment thread do know that there's more than top-40 and 'popular' music? I know someone that saw U2, Echo &The Bunnymen, Joy Divison and more bands of that caliber when they were underground, still performing in front of 150 people, sometimes less. What i'm trying to say is that there's more amazing music out there than you all know, all you have to do to discover it is go see shows, visit record shops, read blogs and magazines, and talk to people. I could probably list more than 300 bands and artists that i've seen, heard and adored since i fell in love with music but that wouldnt prove my point. There's no lack of talent of musicianship, anyone who complains about not having good music served up to them is simply lazy and has gotten old and complacent. Go out there and explore the sounds while you still can

[@29memyselfandi]

@@versnellingspookie I go to see smaller bands all the time. The point we are making is that there was a time when brilliant music flooded the airwaves and topped the charts. Doesn’t happen anymore. Of course there are still a multitude of great original acts- they’re just never on the radio. That’s what we’re talking about.

[@Beckola44]

Mr. Copeland is so passionate about music and is an incredible musician and producer. I did not know he played so many instruments and sang too. I still have a Curved Air record. I'm 71 and I am a huge Police fan. Thank you and Stewart Copeland for this great interview.

[@ryanboyce3365]

Hendrix was my first hero too. Nice to hear Mitch Mitchell get some love as he is a monster.

[@TheActionStack]

"I have trouble understanding why everyone is not good on drums, it came so easy to me" - Copeland ~ 1989

[@panchopuskas1]

Sting's ego vs this guy's self confidence......let battle commence. The resulting music was fantastic as was their guitarist Andy Summers. What a group !

[@orourkedamusic]

I could listen to him all day. He should have been given a lifetime achievement award for Regatta De Blanc alone and that's just one song.

[@BazzerObama]

What a nice guy Stewart Copeland is and he has a great respect for other very talented musicians without perhaps appreciating that people respect him and his drumming in the same way that he respects Ringo Starr.

[@thanksfernuthin]

Thanks for holding the band together as long as you did, Stewart! That music really is brilliant and I'm very happy to have it in my life.

[@downeybill]

So great to give Mitch Mitchell the shout out he deserves.

[@DavidStephensondr]

The Police thru my headphones got me through uni. All three members " were part of the rhythm section ". The guitarist played percussive splashes of colour, the drummer meddled your mind using polyrhythms, and the bass player provided space between the riffs, with gravel and lilt in his voice. It was Magic.

[@bacchuslax7967]

One of the few drummers that when you hear a song, you know it’s him

[@Gr8Layks]

Neal Peart

[@playnicechannel]

@@Gr8LayksWord, Neal an absolute wizard zen master behind the kit … RIP.

[@lindarenaud2907]

Definetly one of the best drummers in the last 50 years.

[@jumpinjojo]

*Definitely

[@zimriel]

he's competing against Fleetwood and Collins and Carpenter and Grohl and Moon UPDATE: Adler, and Colbert [from Ride]

[@robmckrobmck5567]

I always felt Sting shouldve shared writing credits with the other members for being co- inventors of Police unique signature sound that was applied to virtually every great song

[@callingchristiano]

So so so !!! Sure

[@simonrowan7017]

That is the case for so many bands and musicians, particularly intros that turned mediocre songs into hits, noteably ‘take a walk on the wild side with the incredible acoustic bass dubbed with the electric bass ascending and descending of Herbie Flowers who earned the princely sum of £25 session fee for inventing the real hook of the song. Sheer genius. There are endless stories like this. That is the music business all over, greed, ego, and arrogance. To be fair it is often management that are to blame. Then there is the ludicrous copyrighting of a two note riff. Well done Sheeran for standing up to that nonsense. Although it is amazing how everything he sings sounds like something else, but he makes it his.

[@007ndc]

If I'm not mistaken I believe that they realized this and their manager etc decided to have Sting get a 2/3 share of his song and Stewart and Andy would split a 1/3 share. It was an obvious acknowledgement of the contribution that the master musicians Andy Summers Stewart Copeland made to each Police song

[@groovytrev]

​@@007ndcthat would be a royalties agreement rather than song writing credits which is a different matter.

[@ThePsho]

I love the parallels between stories here. Mitch Mitchell, underrated because of Hendrix. Andy Summers, arguably underrated because he was in a band with two strong personalities like Copeland and Sting. It's amazing hearing about how badly they wanted Summers to join, but thought he was unattainable. It's also a testament to the genius of Andy to recognize the potential of the group.

[@jshaers96]

I've never heard anyone call St John's Wood 'The Wood'. It's one of the most exclusive and expensive parts of London and he makes it sound like East Compton.

[@grumblekin]

The best part about Mr. Copeland is that, even if you don't like the kind of music he plays, you can very easily like him for just being himself.

[@brianlutz7813]

what a well-spoken and down to earth dude

[@spindriftdrinker]

Thank you Stewart for the shout out to Mitch Mitchell. As a small kid in 1970, listening to my parents' Jimi Hendrix record - I remember being blown away by the drumming on "Fire". The guy was obviously phenomenal and a clear cut above most of the drummers I was hearing on other rock records. He does usually get overlooked in discussions of rock drummers though.

[@liamg2271]

Copeland is simply masterclass. There are many great musicians in bands, orchestras, etc, but few that are so good you notice their talent immediately.

[@tellitlikeitis5856]

It's not talent. It's earned skills and abilities from lots of hard work ...hours, days, weeks, and years........

[@MakeYourOwnDamnMusic]

Hands down my favorite Police member. Wrote “Does Everyone Stare”, and “Darkness”… two of my favorite cuts. Brilliant musician, beautiful person.

[@dancarter482]

I think _Contact_ is one of his too - one of my favorites.

[@Berley_1234]

nah... how could you not love all 3 equally

[@farmerjoefink]

Those ARE my favorite Police songs. Interlocking chords, sort of jerky jerk, quirky rhythm, very catchy very Copeland.

[@chrisb4331]

“On Any Other Day” ❤

[@dancarter482]

@@chrisb4331 _Yup_ !

[@atrothe]

Stuart is a lovely guy. His documentry about history of drumming "4 on the floor" is a must watch. A truly intelligent charming and lovely man.

[@samthebarber93]

I’m a 31 year old father of two and hard-working barber running a business but on the side I’m also a musician and spend any free time I get writing and producing new music. The Police are and have always been my biggest influence be it the guitar work, the drums I play or the vocal Melodies I sing and this all started 24 years ago when my parents bought me a JVC Cassette Walkman for my 7th birthday. I was so thrilled with this present and I remember begging my dad to take me to an old wholesale place called Makro. They sold absolutely everything there and the aisle I would always go to first was the records section. A 7-year-old boy that knew more artists than my 30 year old aunties and uncles. I was obsessed. Me and my dad went off to Makro that day and my first purchase with my birthday money was Regatta De Blanc, along with a set of AKG over-ear headphones as the ones that came with the Walkman were pretty pants. That was very apparent to me from the first line of the Robert Cray tape that I quickly found to try out my new favourite present of all time! Thank you Stewart for your incredible music and the journey you went on to allow us to consume such brilliant talent!

[@willjam465]

Agree with him about Mitch Mitchell. Always loved his drumming listening to Hendrix. "Manic Depression" is such a cool track on the drums.

[@jhorton4791]

That's the one that always come to mind for me, too. Love the way the drums and guitar play off each other. And in 3/4 waltz time - genius. Stewart and Mitch are in my top 5 drummers of all time.

[@Topnikko]

Stewart Copeland is such an immensely talented and intelligent guy. I think the Police could make another amazing album even all these years later.

[@stevenlennon12]

definately

[@groovytrev]

I doubt it. The energy, enthusiasm and the music scene that was there that drove them to success is long gone. Anything they do now would be of course be musically good but wouldn't have the magic combination of styles The Police had in their heyday. Synchronicity was perhaps the best time for them to bow out and keep their legacy intact.

[@Topnikko]

@@groovytrev Since it will never happen we'll never know. Of course, if they released a new album it wouldn't be as commercially successful as the old stuff. But that doesn't mean they couldn't take us on a new musical ride that would still be great. Sting and Copeland still have lots of energy. I don't know about Andy.

[@FurtiveSkeptical]

The last tour was a lot of strain and wear on Andy Summers, I read in an article at the time.... I can't see him doing that at his age, he had visible trouble at the live concert in our city at the time. Doesn't stop me from wishing they would though. Copeland has been my favourite drummer for decades. "Delicious Clockwork" is the term I'd use to describe his playing. I've always been drawn to his quirky style. A wonderful mind and man.

[@paulf2898]

They could in a studio but touring not so much

[@paulcarr5918]

I know people have their favorites, but I say without fear or hesitation that Sting and Stewart were the best rhythm section rock music has ever had.....and Andy Summers happens to be one of the most underrated and underappreciated guitarists ever.

[@keithnelson9121]

The Police created a whole new genre of music. The arpeggiating, staccato guitars were completely new at the time. Maybe the odd song had bits like that, but they took it to the next level and made a complete sound of it. They're underrated cos they made pop songs, but there was nothing like them. They were a shining beam of light in some dark times.

[@illostr8]

All it was is Ska ,English reggae

[@guzgrant]

@@illostr8bit of an understatement.

[@illostr8]

@@guzgrant thats like comparing Funk and disco there similar but not the same its about the tempo ska is faster bpm than reggae same with disco is faster than funk

[@guzgrant]

@@illostr8 Not really With respect it is you that is being reductive. Your comment reads as if dismissing his ability ,the Police unique sound as nothing more than two tone or ska and I beg to differ .

[@illostr8]

@@guzgrant you are correct Its just ska or post punk

[@duaneraymond4252]

Stewart's a real person, he's the exception to "Don't ever meet your idols"...

[@mstob1969]

Awesome interview, though as others have mentioned, didn't need the clickbait title which was intentionally inaccurate. God, Stewart is such a cool character, and sounds so incredibly happy. Really pleased for him.

[@marshallwilver8831]

He’s right about the hierarchy thing and musicians. I think it’s because of the lifestyle that musicians live. Touring is grueling, so there’s a natural amount of respect that comes with years and years of touring.

[@georgeakins]

Saw Stewart when he played with Curved Air at an outdoor gig at Cardiff Castle late 1970's. Little did I know.... This is a great interview because he's so natural and likeable. Loved the Police and his manic drumming style.

[@michaelheinz3954]

To this day I know where I was when I first heard "Message in a bottle"...this music will always be in my heart. Thank You Sting, Stewart, Andy, you made my days

[@radi2449]

Yes! I know too exactly where I heard it first! Next day in the record store - fantastic times 😃

[@rudeboyfood1755Holmes]

I was driving down Punt Rd Cliffton Hill, Vic

[@paul_domici]

It's crazy that they are all alive and not touring as the Police!!! I would love to see them live again!!!

[@svenjansen2134]

Egos.

[@georgeorr1042]

Andy is 80. Not a priority now.

[@manchesterunitedno7]

They just can't. Stewart and Sting get along and buddy buddy, off-band. But they just can't stand each other whenever they are in the band. Then there's Andy, who simply fed up and retired at this point with his age.

[@joergzabbee3921]

I had the pleasure to hear and see them all together at their reunion tour a few years ago. I was blown away by the fact how only 3 people on stage were able to produce such music and sound.

[@jenniebarber6653]

Andy himself is touring this Fall. @@georgeorr1042

[@ZENmud]

Stewart has a perfect radio voice...

[@garyhillman4993]

Watching him n Sting argue the toss was good it often came to blows

[@sullybiker6520]

Every time I hear Stewart Copeland speak I have this impression that his personality is the least removed from that kid in the Police. He still has that enthusiastic, nervous energy.

[@kosmikcharlie6637]

By far the best drummer of that generation

[@alexandrarodriguez2293]

Thanks to that low key reggae.. man was he unique!

[@peterhammer4644]

Phil Collins is from the same generation so I would not call Stewart by far the best. Collins was incredible both as a youngster in Genesis and in Brand X. I actually thought the Police guys were younger than the Genesis guys but no. Both great bands though 👍.

[@AntwhaleNearfar]

Two words: Terry Bozzio.

[@JS-hu7pv]

I just saw Sting in concert, now watching Mr. Copeland in this video. These guys look and sound incredible for being in their 70s. These types of musicians are so fun to get to know in these interviews.

[@halohat2286]

Mitch Mitchell was a huge part of the Hendrix sound. A perfect match for Jimi. Long live The Police ❤

[@glennhavinoviski8128]

Very generous interview - one of those people who could tell stories for hours.

[@mikedr1549]

It's funny how a someone like Stewart Copeland considers himself "little old me" - when in reality he's a member of one of the largest most iconic bands from his era.

[@Baribrotzer]

Compared to Ringo, he IS small potatoes. Everybody is.

[@mikekaraoke]

And then from then on doing classic themes for films/TV etc....

[@martincarlos3759]

I think when Artists with Ego work together with a one of a kind like Sting they just can't stand witnessing such uniqueness.

[@gavinremedios7953]

Thank God he listened to Mr Copeland ❤❤ living legend.

[@LaughingStock_]

Stewart's drumming is up there with the greatest is modern music, and let's not forget his superb work with "The Equalizer" as composer of the music for that series.

[@jasonelliott7977]

The original show or the new series with Queen Latifah?

[@jeromethiel4323]

@@jasonelliott7977 I think you know the answer. Search your feelings, you know it to be true. ^-^

[@paulf2898]

Don't forget see no evil hear no evil and wall street

[@farmgene]

What a great guy! Every video of Copeland has me more and more impressed with his character!

[@TheJonathanc82]

Stewart is an amazing dude. Impresses me every time I hear him play, speak, do interviews, etc. an all around cool human being.

[@alex_rogan]

I’ve always loved his drumming but the fact he mentions RATM, RHCP, Primus, FF, Fish as his people: He has my vote for life. I grew up on all these bands and more. Amazing.

[@rejean2744]

I was a fan of the Police from the get go. I remember a musician friend of mine saying early on, "listen to the drummer, he's great" . He was and is.

[@cuecadelacut]

I love how much he loves Stingo

[@andrewmitchell8859]

My bestest drummer ever ! In the whole Universe ! Woke me up to music from 13 years old !

[@filldrummin42]

One of the coolest, most interesting humans still sucking air. Love him like I know him.

[@alankitchen722]

There's attitude based on vaporware and then there's attitude based on talent and then there's attitude based on the intense (almost maniacal) need to bring something sublime into reality that you can barely hear inside your head. Now, imagine the killing field that is multiplying that last one by three and having them stay together. It is fantastic to see Stewart still enjoying the sounds that he can make. Thank you as one of the legendary prog-rock gods of my 20's.

[@Demention94]

You can hear his intelligence in his playing and his playing in his candor..