In a landmark ruling that sent shockwaves through the music industry, a High Court judge has handed Sting a significant victory in an ongoing legal battle over one of pop's most enduring anthems. Mr Justice Richards dismissed an application by former Police bandmates Stewart Copeland and Andy Summers, who sought to throw out Sting's lawsuit concerning the authorship of their 1983 mega-hit, 'Every Breath You Take'.
A Clash Over a Classic
The heart of the dispute lies in a 25% share of the song's lucrative royalties. Guitarist Summers and drummer Copeland launched their own claim in 2021, arguing they were entitled to a larger portion of the profits from the track, which has generated millions from radio play, sync licenses, and samples—most notably in Puff Daddy's 1997 tribute, 'I'll Be Missing You'.
Sting, whose real name is Gordon Sumner, retaliated with a countersuit. He is seeking a definitive ruling from the court that the terms of the band's original 1980s agreement, which granted him the lion's share of the songwriting royalties, are legally binding and still stand.
The Judge's Decisive Ruling
The defendants' attempt to have Sting's case summarily dismissed was firmly rejected. The judge concluded that the matter was not suitable for a 'summary judgment' and required a full trial to examine the complex evidence and arguments from all parties. This paves the way for a potentially explosive courtroom showdown later this year, where the inner workings and agreements of one of the world's biggest bands will be laid bare.
Beyond the Courtroom: A Musical Legacy Under Scrutiny
This case transcends a simple financial squabble. It strikes at the very core of how collaborative art is valued and compensated in the music business. 'Every Breath You Take' remains a cultural touchstone, and the outcome of this trial could set a powerful precedent for how songwriting credits and royalties are disputed among band members for decades to come.
With a trial date now looming, the music world will be watching closely as these rock titans battle it out over the legacy of a song that has defined their careers.
