Few albums capture the essence of an era like Synchronicity, the fifth and final studio masterpiece by The Police. Released in 1983, it defined a generation with hits like “Every Breath You Take” and “King of Pain.” While the album is widely celebrated, here are five lesser-known facts that add depth to its legacy.
1. “Every Breath You Take” Almost Tore the Band Apart
While recording their biggest hit, tensions between Sting and Stewart Copeland reached an all-time high, with verbal and physical altercations threatening to derail the project. The song ultimately had to be pieced together from overdubs after multiple failed takes, proving that behind the polished final product lay a stormy creative process.
2. The Symbolism of “King of Pain”
Written by Sting after his separation from his first wife, “King of Pain” is filled with poetic imagery symbolizing heartbreak and existential dread. The song underwent significant reworking during the mixing process, stripping back layers to highlight its emotional depth.
3. A Record-Breaking Number of Album Covers
Synchronicity was released with 36 different album covers, each featuring a unique arrangement of color stripes and band member photos. This creative marketing move turned the vinyl into a collector’s dream and added to the album’s mystique.
4. Carl Jung and Arthur Koestler’s Influence
The album’s title and many themes were inspired by Carl Jung’s concept of synchronicity and Arthur Koestler’s book The Roots of Coincidence. Sting, an avid reader, infused the record with philosophical depth, making it as much a literary exploration as a musical one.
5. Innovative Recording Techniques
To achieve the best sound, the band recorded their parts in separate rooms at AIR Studios in Montserrat, connected by video links. This unconventional setup helped maintain sonic clarity while also reflecting the personal tensions within the group.
