When we think of The Police, one song often comes to mind first: "Roxanne." Released in 1978 as part of their debut album Outlandos d'Amour, "Roxanne" became an instant classic and one of the band’s defining tracks. But "Roxanne" is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to The Police's iconic catalog of hits. Their unique blend of rock, punk, reggae, and pop made them one of the most influential bands of the late '70s and early '80s, and their songs continue to be celebrated by fans old and new. Let’s explore some of their most iconic songs and how they solidified the band's place in music history.

1. Roxanne (1978)

The unmistakable opening riff of "Roxanne" still echoes through music history. Written by lead singer Sting, the song tells the story of a man pleading with a woman named Roxanne to stop selling her love, echoing the themes of love, desperation, and redemption. The song blends reggae and rock, offering a glimpse into The Police's unique sound early on. "Roxanne" was a breakthrough hit that defined the band’s sound, and its influence can still be heard in modern music today. For fans, owning a piece of The Police merchandise like a classic "Roxanne" t-shirt or a vinyl edition of Outlandos d'Amour allows them to take a piece of that history home.

2. Every Breath You Take (1983)

Perhaps one of The Police’s most commercially successful songs, "Every Breath You Take" from Synchronicity (1983) became a worldwide hit, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. This song has been interpreted in various ways, but its lyrics, which seem to speak to obsession and surveillance, continue to resonate. Despite its seemingly romantic tone, the song’s darker undertones of control and possessiveness made it a standout in The Police’s discography. It’s a perfect example of how the band could mix pop sensibilities with deeper, more complex emotions. The song’s popularity has ensured its place in pop culture, with fans often seeking The Police merchandise to celebrate its enduring legacy.

3. Message in a Bottle (1979)

With its infectious, upbeat rhythm and instantly recognizable guitar riff, "Message in a Bottle" is a song that captured the frustrations and isolation of a young generation. Released on their second album, Reggatta de Blanc, the track became one of their signature songs. In the song, Sting sings about being stranded on an island, metaphorically isolated, but finding hope when a "message in a bottle" washes ashore—representing communication and connection. The success of "Message in a Bottle" helped establish The Police as one of the most innovative bands of their era. This song continues to resonate with fans, and finding a rare Police vinyl or collectible item from the era is a way to revisit this legendary moment in music history.

4. Don’t Stand So Close to Me (1980)

"Don’t Stand So Close to Me" became an international hit and a staple of The Police’s live shows. Its lyrics, which tell the story of a teacher-student relationship, were both controversial and captivating. The song mixed pop, rock, and reggae influences, showcasing the band's knack for combining different musical genres. It’s one of those songs that has an immediate impact on listeners, and its catchy melody is hard to forget. For fans, The Police merchandise related to this track often features its distinct album artwork or famous song title, reminding them of the song’s enduring popularity.

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.