Stewart Copeland praises ex-bandmate Sting: "The Police get along just fine if we don't play music"

25 April 2025, 13:57

Stewart Copeland praises ex-bandmate Sting: "The Police get along just fine if we don't play music"

Stewart Copeland, the legendary drummer from The Police, is back with a groundbreaking new album called Wild Concerto.

Known for his innovative approach to music, Stewart has ventured into uncharted territory by creating a classical album that replaces traditional singers with the sounds of wild animals.

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It pays homage to the natural world, utilizing an impressive library of animal sounds collected by Martin Stuart, the "Richard Attenborough of Sound." Copeland's album features the voices of endangered species, recorded in their natural habitats, which are rapidly being lost to urbanization and environmental change.

Speaking to Gold Radio's Kirsty Gallacher about the project, saying how he blended these natural sounds with orchestral music.

• Watch the full interview above

Despite his current focus on wildlife-inspired music, Stewart remains closely connected to his roots with The Police. Reflecting on his time with the band, Copeland (reluctantly) shared a newfound appreciation for Sting's songwriting prowess.

Stewart Copeland | Wild Concerto | Teaser 1

"I did discover much to my discomfort. Don't tell him I said this. But the guy's a genius," Copeland said, acknowledging the depth and intelligence of Sting's lyrics, which he had previously overlooked.

This revelation came to Copeland when he reimagined The Police's hits as orchestral arrangements, allowing him to fully appreciate the lyrical and melodic complexity of songs like 'Message in a Bottle' and 'Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic'.

Copeland also speaks fondly of his relationship with Sting, noting that they remain close friends despite their musical differences. He humorously recounts how their reunion tour brought them together for "band therapy," helping them understand that their creative differences were simply a result of divergent musical tastes.

While Sting gravitates towards the likes of Edith Piaf, Copeland's playlist is filled with heavy metal bands like Metallica.

Stewart Copeland's album Wild Concerto is out now.