Sting (musician)

Lore & Background

He grew up near Wallsend's shipyards. He helped his father deliver milk and by ten was obsessed with an old Spanish guitar left by an emigrating friend of his father. He attended St Cuthbert's Grammar School and later the University of Warwick, leaving after a term. He taught at St Paul's First School in Cramlington for two years. He performed jazz in the evenings and weekends with the Phoenix Jazzmen, Newcastle Big Band and Last Exit. He gained his nickname during his time with the Phoenix Jazzmen, when bandleader Gordon Solomon remarked that Sumner's habitual black-and-yellow striped jumper made him look like a wasp. Their final album, Synchronicity, included their most successful song, 'Every Breath You Take', written by Sting. Sting's first solo album, 1985's The Dream of the Blue Turtles, featured jazz musicians and included hit singles. He released ...Nothing Like the Sun in 1987, which won Best British Album at the 1988 Brit Awards.

Reader's Guide

Sting's significance lies in his dual career as frontman of the Police and as a solo artist who integrated diverse musical styles. He has received three Brit Awards, a Golden Globe, an Emmy, four Academy Award nominations, and 17 Grammy Awards. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of the Police in 2003. His honors include a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, the Ivor Novello Award for Lifetime Achievement, a CBE from Queen Elizabeth II, Kennedy Center Honors, and the Polar Music Prize. His work has influenced popular music across genres, and his longevity in the industry underscores his lasting impact.

Did You Know?

• Sting's nickname came from a black-and-yellow striped jumper that made him look like a wasp.
• He has received 17 Grammy Awards as a solo musician and as a member of the Police.