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[Beginner’s Guide] Start Here! A Collection of Sting’s Greatest Songs [2025]

Sting, the celebrated British musician whose trio-format Japan tour in September 2025 drew major attention, continues to perform at the forefront with his powerful vocals and a distinctive musical style blending jazz and rock.

Even though he has produced numerous classics as a solo artist since leaving The Police, many people may feel they know him but are surprised by how much they don’t actually know about his appeal.

In this article, we’ll introduce essential tracks from Sting’s solo career—focusing on his signature songs and including more recent gems—that beginners should definitely check out.

Why not take this opportunity to dive into Sting’s musical world?

[Beginner] Start Here! A Compilation of Sting’s Greatest Songs [2025] (1–10)

Englishman In New YorkSting

The classic song “Englishman In New York,” released in 1988.

The Englishman who appears in the song refers to the renowned British actor Quentin Crisp.

Quentin lived openly as a gay man, but he faced harsh treatment from society.

In this context, “Englishman In New York” was released as if to express the cry of his heart.

It’s a quintessential Sting expression, linking “an Englishman awaiting naturalization” with “a gay man waiting to be accepted by society.”

Epilogue (Nothing ‘Bout Me)Sting

Among the solo works of Sting—a globally renowned artist who remains energetically active—the final track on his classic 1993 album Ten Summoner’s Tales is especially thought-provoking.

In it, he delivers a slightly ironic message to the listener: “No matter how much information you gather about me, you won’t learn anything true.” It’s quintessential Sting—pairing a light, buoyant sound with a deep artistic philosophy.

The album itself won a Grammy, and this song is a fitting conclusion.

When you want to experience his intellectual playfulness, be sure to listen to the album all the way through.

If It’s LoveSting

Sting – If It’s Love (Official Music Video)
If It's LoveSting

Since going solo, Sting has released many genre-defying tracks, and his musical curiosity shows no sign of stopping.

The song I’d like to introduce was released ahead of the album The Bridge in September 2021.

It’s a pop number with strikingly unique lyrics that liken falling in love to the symptoms of an incurable disease.

The handclap-driven beat and shimmering strings are pleasing to the ear, and the song portrays love’s uncertainty with a light touch and humor—making it a great recommendation for those new to Sting’s music.

Be sure to check it out!

[Beginner] Start Here! A Collection of Sting’s Greatest Songs [2025] (11–20)

We Work the Black SeamSting

In his solo work, Sting blends jazz and rock, and he also writes songs with social messages.

From his solo debut album, The Dream of the Blue Turtles, released in June 1985, here’s a track that conveys his strong resolve.

Sung from the perspective of British coal miners of the time, the piece expresses pride in their work as well as anxiety and anger about a future shifting into the nuclear age.

The sound—combining a mechanical rhythm, fiery saxophone, and a deeply human voice—is breathtaking.

The lyrics, which portray the cries of the workers, pair perfectly with the dramatic arrangement, so be sure to check it out.

Just One LifetimeSting, Shaggy

Sting, a musician Britain is proud of, and Shaggy, a reggae star from Jamaica—this unexpected duo’s collaborative album 44/876 received high praise, including winning at the 61st Grammy Awards.

Among its tracks, this song is one I especially recommend.

Its breezy reggae-pop sound carries a positive message that you only live once.

Sting’s sophisticated vocals intertwine perfectly with Shaggy’s rhythmic delivery, showcasing their remarkable chemistry.

The track was also featured in FIAT’s 120th anniversary campaign.

It’s perfect for a drive or a laid-back moment, so be sure to give it a listen.

RedlightSwedish House Mafia & Sting

Swedish House Mafia, Sting – Redlight
RedlightSwedish House Mafia & Sting

This is a highly ambitious collaboration with the giants of the electronic scene, Swedish House Mafia.

In this work, Sting re-records a phrase he sang during his Police days, weaving it into a distinctive structure that melts into a dark, weighty club sound.

The tension of the “dangerous” romance embedded in the original is recreated with an even more thrilling edge through austere beats and minimal synths.

The track was released in February 2022 and included on the album Paradise Again.

If you’d like to rediscover the timeless appeal of his voice through a contemporary sound, be sure to check it out.

Fields Of GoldSting

One of the tracks included on the 1993 album Ten Summoner’s Tales, Fields of Gold.

Because it was very popular on the album, it was later released as a single, reaching No.

16 on the UK charts and No.

23 in the U.

S.

—a very strong showing in the highly competitive music scene of the time.

Of course, popularity alone doesn’t make a song good.

The composition skillfully brings out Sting’s strengths, resulting in something highly compelling.

It’s also one of his signature works, so if you’re thinking of delving into Sting’s music, be sure to check it out.