The Police Members, Gear & Sound

British rock band

Genre

Rock Reggae New Wave Alternative rock Pop rock Indie rock Soft rock Power pop Art rock Jazz fusion Reggae fusion Punk rock Post-punk Ska punk Ska Classic rock 2 Tone Reggae rock Punk permanent wave dance rock album rock mellow gold

Members

Select a The Police band member to check out the music gear they use live and in the studio.

Andy Summers

Roles:

Guitarist

Groups:

Eric Burdon & the Animals Soft Machine Andy Summers & Robert Fripp Strontium 90 Dantalian’s Chariot Zoot Money’s Big Roll Band The Secret Society Circa Zero

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Sting

Roles:

Singer Guitarist Bassist Composer

Groups:

Mark Knopfler’s Guitar Heroes The Secret Police Sting with Eric Clapton Strontium 90 Sting Last Exit Fast Breeder & The Radio Actors The Conspirators

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Stewart Copeland

Roles:

Singer Guitarist Drummer

Groups:

Curved Air Oysterhead Klark Kent Manzarek–Krieger Animal Logic Mad for the Racket The Doors of the 21st Century Ken Bishop's Nice Twelve Gizmodrome

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Henry Padovani

Roles:

Guitarist

Groups:

Wayne County & the Electric Chairs

No gear added

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About

The Police were an English rock band formed in London in 1977, known for their distinctive fusion of rock, reggae, and new wave influences. The group consisted of Sting (vocals, bass guitar), Andy Summers (guitar), and Stewart Copeland (drums). The Police quickly rose to international fame with their unique sound and energetic performances, contributing to their status as one of the most successful bands of the late 1970s and early 1980s. They released a string of hit singles, including "Roxanne," "Message in a Bottle," and "Every Breath You Take," which became timeless classics.

How to Sound Like The Police

The Police's sound is characterized by a tight, rhythmic interplay between its members, often featuring reggae-inspired grooves and minimalist arrangements. Sting’s melodic bass lines and distinctive vocal delivery are central to their sound, while Andy Summers’ guitar work adds layers of complexity with its textural and atmospheric qualities. Summers often used a Roland JC-120 Jazz Chorus amplifier, which is renowned for its crystal-clear, chorus-laden tones, and a Fender Andy Summers Tribute Telecaster, known for its versatility and bright sound. Stewart Copeland’s drumming is dynamic and precise, providing a punchy, yet intricate rhythmic foundation that complements the band’s eclectic style. The use of effects like the Boss OC-2 Octaver by Sting contributes to the band’s rich, layered sound, creating a distinctive blend of melody and rhythm that has influenced countless musicians.

Discography

Outlandos D'Amour (Remastered 2003)

1978

Reggatta De Blanc (Remastered 2003)

1979

Zenyatta Mondatta (Remastered 2003)

1980

Ghost In The Machine (Remastered 2003)

1981

Ghost In The Machine (Alternate Sequence)

1981

Synchronicity (Remastered 2003)

1983

Live! (Remastered 2003)

1995

Certifiable (Live in Buenos Aires)

2008

Get the The Police Sound

Want to sound like The Police? This gear comes straight from the setups of the band's members, based on proven sources. Dive into each artist's page for more detail and inspiration.