Every Breath You Take: Lyrics And Chords By The Police

by Jhon Lennon 55 views

Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into one of the most iconic songs ever written: "Every Breath You Take" by The Police. This track isn't just a chart-topper; it’s a masterclass in songwriting, blending simple yet haunting lyrics with an unforgettable melody. Whether you're a seasoned musician or just starting to strum your first chords, this breakdown of the lyrics and chords will give you a fresh appreciation for this timeless hit. Let's get started!

The Story Behind the Song

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of the lyrics and chords, let's talk about the backstory. "Every Breath You Take" was written by Sting, the lead singer and bassist of The Police. Released in 1983 as part of their album "Synchronicity," the song quickly climbed to the top of the charts, becoming one of the biggest hits of the year. But here’s the twist: despite its popularity as a wedding song, the lyrics are actually quite dark. Sting wrote it during a period of personal turmoil, reflecting themes of obsession and surveillance rather than love and commitment. Understanding this context adds a whole new layer to the song's interpretation.

The song's success is also attributed to its unique sound. Andy Summers, the guitarist for The Police, initially struggled with the song, but his eventual guitar riff became a defining element. The minimalist arrangement, combined with Sting's vocals and the subtle yet powerful rhythm section, created a sound that was both catchy and deeply unsettling. It’s a perfect example of how contrasting elements can come together to create something truly special.

Moreover, the song's legacy continues to this day. It has been covered by numerous artists, featured in countless movies and TV shows, and remains a staple on radio stations around the world. Its enduring appeal speaks to the power of its melody and the resonance of its themes. So, whether you're hearing it for the first time or the hundredth, "Every Breath You Take" has a way of captivating listeners with its haunting beauty and complex emotional undertones.

Decoding the Lyrics

The lyrics of "Every Breath You Take" are deceptively simple, but each line is packed with meaning. Let’s break them down:

  • "Every breath you take / And every move you make / Every bond you break / Every step you take / I’ll be watching you"

    This opening stanza sets the tone for the entire song. The repetition of "every" emphasizes the all-encompassing nature of the surveillance. It’s not just occasional glances; it’s a constant, unwavering watchfulness.

  • "Every single day / And every word you say / Every game you play / Every night you stay / I’ll be watching you"

    Here, the lyrics delve deeper into the subject's daily life. It’s not just the big moments that are being observed, but also the mundane, everyday activities. This level of detail adds to the creepiness and sense of intrusion.

  • "Oh, can’t you see / You belong to me? / How my poor heart aches / With every step you take"

    This is where the possessiveness becomes explicit. The speaker believes they have a right to control the other person’s life. The line about the aching heart adds a layer of vulnerability, but it doesn’t excuse the obsessive behavior.

  • "Every move you make / Every vow you break / Every smile you fake / Every claim you stake / I’ll be watching you"

    This stanza highlights the speaker's awareness of the other person's actions, even the insincere ones. It suggests a level of distrust and suspicion, as if the speaker is constantly looking for signs of betrayal.

Understanding these lyrics is crucial for appreciating the song's true meaning. It’s not a love song in the traditional sense; it’s a portrayal of unhealthy obsession and control. The simplicity of the language makes the message even more powerful, allowing listeners to project their own interpretations onto the song.

Diving into the Chords

Now, let’s get to the chords! "Every Breath You Take" is based around a relatively simple chord progression, but the nuances in the guitar arrangement make it truly special. Here’s a basic breakdown of the chords:

  • Key: A major
  • Main Chords:
    • A (x02220)
    • E (022100)
    • D (xx0232)
    • Bm (x24432)

The song primarily revolves around the A, E, and D chords, creating a bright and uplifting feel that contrasts with the dark lyrics. The Bm chord adds a touch of melancholy and complexity.

Here’s how you can play along:

  1. Intro: The intro features Andy Summers' iconic guitar riff. While it’s a bit tricky to replicate perfectly, you can get close by focusing on the arpeggiated notes within the A and E chords.
  2. Verse: The verse follows a simple A - E - D progression. You can strum each chord four times or experiment with different strumming patterns to add your own flair.
  3. Chorus: The chorus introduces the Bm chord, adding a bit of tension before resolving back to the A. The progression is A - E - D - Bm.
  4. Bridge: The bridge offers a slight variation in the chord progression, but it still centers around the main chords. Pay attention to the transitions between chords to maintain the song’s flow.

For beginners, focusing on the basic chord shapes and strumming patterns is a great way to start. As you become more comfortable, you can explore the more intricate guitar parts and add your own embellishments. There are tons of tutorials online that can help you nail Andy Summers' unique guitar sound. Playing along with the original recording is also a great way to improve your timing and accuracy.

Tips for Playing the Song

To really nail "Every Breath You Take" on guitar, here are a few tips:

  • Focus on the Rhythm: The song’s rhythm is deceptively complex. Pay attention to the subtle syncopation and try to replicate it in your strumming.
  • Experiment with Arpeggios: Andy Summers' guitar part is full of arpeggiated chords. Try breaking down the chords into individual notes and playing them in sequence.
  • Use a Chorus Effect: A chorus effect can help you get closer to the original guitar sound. Experiment with different settings to find the sweet spot.
  • Pay Attention to Dynamics: The song’s dynamics are crucial for conveying its emotional impact. Vary your strumming intensity to create contrast between the verses and choruses.
  • Practice the Intro: The intro riff is the most challenging part of the song. Break it down into smaller sections and practice each one slowly until you can play it smoothly.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering "Every Breath You Take" on guitar. Don’t be afraid to experiment and add your own personal touches. After all, music is all about self-expression!

The Enduring Appeal

So, why has "Every Breath You Take" remained so popular for so long? It’s a combination of factors:

  • Relatable Themes: Despite its dark undertones, the song touches on universal themes of love, loss, and longing. Everyone can relate to the feeling of wanting to be close to someone, even if it borders on obsession.
  • Catchy Melody: The song’s melody is instantly memorable and incredibly catchy. It’s the kind of tune that gets stuck in your head for days.
  • Unique Sound: The combination of Sting’s vocals, Andy Summers' guitar work, and the minimalist arrangement creates a sound that is instantly recognizable.
  • Cultural Impact: The song has been featured in countless movies, TV shows, and commercials, cementing its place in popular culture.

In conclusion, "Every Breath You Take" is a masterpiece of songwriting and musical arrangement. Whether you’re interested in the lyrics, the chords, or the story behind the song, there’s something here for everyone. So, grab your guitar, start strumming, and discover the magic of this timeless hit for yourself! You got this!