Did Sting's Ex-Bandmates Just Sue Him Over Royalties?

Sting, the famed frontman of The Police, is facing legal action from former bandmates Andy Summers and Stewart Copeland over alleged unpaid royalties from their time together in the band. This civil case, filed in the High Court, centres on claims that the two musicians have been undercompensated for their contributions to iconic songs like "Roxanne" and "Every Breath You Take." At the heart of the dispute is an oral agreement purportedly established in 1977 regarding income sharing, which Sting denies. As the legal proceedings unfold, the case highlights the complex dynamics of creative partnerships in the music industry.

Last updated: 02 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Sting is being sued by former bandmates for alleged unpaid royalties.
• The dispute involves claims of a 1977 oral agreement regarding income sharing.
• Sting denies the claims and asserts that his bandmates may owe him money.
• The case raises questions about the nature of songwriting credits and income division.
• The Police's split in 1984 was marked by personal and musical tensions.

Background of The Police

The Police formed in 1977, quickly establishing themselves as one of the UK's most successful bands. Their unique blend of rock, reggae, and punk resonated with audiences, leading to numerous chart-topping hits. Notably, their track "Every Breath You Take" reached number one in the US and was later recognised as one of the most-played songs in radio history. However, the band's success was marred by tensions among its members, leading to their split in 1984.

The Legal Dispute

The current lawsuit stems from allegations made by guitarist Andy Summers and drummer Stewart Copeland, who claim they have not received their fair share of royalties from The Police's music. They assert that, despite not receiving writing credits, they were part of an oral agreement that established income sharing within the band. The details of this agreement have become a focal point in the legal proceedings.

The Alleged Oral Agreement

According to Summers and Copeland, the band informally agreed to share royalties back in 1977. They argue that this arrangement was meant to ensure fair compensation among the members for their contributions. In court documents, Summers recounts that the discussion took place outside their manager Miles Copeland's office in Notting Hill. However, Sting's position is that no such agreement existed, suggesting the conversation was merely intended to maintain harmony within the group.

Written Contracts and Subsequent Changes

While the initial oral agreement is disputed, the band formalised their arrangement in writing in 1981. This contract was revised in 1995 and again in 2016, which adds another layer of complexity to the current lawsuit. The legal arguments revolve around the interpretation of these contracts and what they stipulate regarding royalty payments.

Understanding Royalties

Royalties in the music industry typically fall into two main categories: mechanical royalties and performance royalties. Mechanical royalties are generated from the sale of recorded music, while performance royalties arise from live performances and radio play. The legal contention between Sting and his former bandmates lies in which type of royalties they believe should be included in the sharing agreement.

Claims of Underpayment

Summers and Copeland claim they are owed approximately £1,750,000 for unpaid royalties. They argue that their contributions to The Police’s songwriting merit compensation from both categories of royalties. In contrast, Sting maintains that the agreement only encompasses mechanical royalties, asserting that his bandmates have already been adequately compensated.

Sting's Position

Sting's legal team has been vocal in defending him against these claims. They argue that not only have Summers and Copeland not been underpaid, but they may actually owe Sting money due to overpayments made in the past. This assertion adds a counterclaim dimension to the ongoing legal battle, complicating the situation further.

The Impact of Recent Changes

In 2022, Sting sold the rights to his songwriting catalogue to Universal Music Group. This deal, estimated at £187 million, includes both his solo works and the songs he penned for The Police. The sale of his catalogue has raised eyebrows, especially in light of the ongoing lawsuit, as it might affect the distribution of royalties moving forward.

Historical Context and Band Dynamics

The internal dynamics of The Police have been turbulent, with personal animosities frequently spilling into their professional lives. Drummer Stewart Copeland once described the recording sessions for their album "Synchronicity" as "very dark," suggesting that the personal conflicts contributed to the band's eventual breakup. Sting himself has expressed frustrations about being creatively stifled by the band, indicating a complex relationship among the members.

What Happens Next?

The legal proceedings are ongoing, and the outcome remains uncertain. As the court deliberates on the legitimacy of the claims and the interpretation of the various agreements, the case serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in the music industry. The resolution of this dispute could have significant implications for how royalties are shared and the rights of band members moving forward.

FAQs

What is the lawsuit about?

The lawsuit concerns allegations by former bandmates Andy Summers and Stewart Copeland that they have been underpaid for their contributions to songs recorded by The Police between 1977 and 1984.

What did the original agreement entail?

Summers and Copeland claim they entered an oral agreement in 1977 to share income from songs, which was later formalised in written contracts. Disputes centre around the specifics of this agreement.

How much money is at stake?

The former bandmates claim they are owed approximately £1,750,000 in unpaid royalties from both mechanical and performance categories, while Sting contends that they have already been adequately compensated.

What are mechanical royalties?

Mechanical royalties are payments made to songwriters and publishers for the reproduction of their music, such as sales of CDs, downloads, and streams.

What impact does Sting's recent catalogue sale have on the case?

Sting's sale of his songwriting catalogue to Universal Music Group for £187 million raises questions about the future distribution of royalties and the financial implications of the ongoing lawsuit.

As the legal battle unfolds, it highlights the intricate relationships and agreements that govern creative partnerships in music. How this case will ultimately resolve remains to be seen, but it is sure to have lasting effects on the dynamics of collaboration in the industry. #ThePolice #Sting #MusicRoyalties