Rock legend Sting is facing a high-stakes legal showdown with his former bandmates from The Police, as Andy Summers and Stewart Copeland file a lawsuit alleging millions in lost royalties.
The bitter dispute, filed in a New York court, centres on claims that the iconic frontman has been systematically withholding earnings from the band's legendary catalogue since their 2007 reunion tour.
The Core Allegations
According to court documents, Summers and Copeland accuse Sting of diverting royalty payments that should have been distributed equally among all three members. The lawsuit suggests this involves revenue from their groundbreaking work that has been used in various commercial ventures.
Most controversially, the legal action challenges Sting's right to retain 100% of earnings from his solo work, which the plaintiffs argue contains substantial musical contributions from The Police's collective repertoire.
A History of Tension
This isn't the first time financial disputes have threatened to dismantle the band's legacy. The current lawsuit reveals that previous agreements, including one made during their 2007-2008 reunion tour, were supposed to ensure fair distribution of all future earnings.
However, Summers and Copeland claim these agreements have been violated, leaving them out of pocket while Sting continues to benefit from their shared creative output.
What's at Stake
The financial implications are substantial, with millions of pounds in royalty payments potentially hanging in the balance. The outcome could set significant precedents for how band revenues are distributed, particularly regarding solo projects that incorporate elements of group work.
Both former members are seeking full accounting of all royalty streams and appropriate compensation for what they claim are significant financial losses over nearly two decades.
Industry Implications
This case shines a harsh spotlight on the complex financial arrangements within successful bands, particularly those with dominant frontpersons. The music industry watches closely, as the outcome could influence how royalties are handled in similar artist collectives.
As legal teams prepare for what could be a protracted battle, fans of The Police are left wondering if this marks the final note for one of rock music's most influential trios.
