King of Pain

Where they were

Released in January 1984, 'King of Pain' marked a significant moment for The Police as they were transitioning into their later albums. This single came from their final studio album, 'Synchronicity', which solidified their status in the music scene following their commercial peak with previous hits. By this time, the band was at the height of its fame but also on the brink of disbanding.

Why it matters

The song reached No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100, underscoring The Police's enduring popularity in the early '80s. Its introspective lyrics and distinctive sound contributed to the band's legacy and influenced numerous artists in the rock and new wave genres. The album's overall reception helped cement The Police's place in rock history before their eventual breakup.

Essential tracks

• "King of Pain" — The title track encapsulates the band's signature sound with poignant lyrics reflecting personal struggle and emotional depth, making it a quintessential Police song.
• "Tea in the Sahara (live)" — This live performance showcases the band's ability to reinterpret their studio work with fresh energy and deepens the emotional resonance of the original song.