“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Every now and then, a song comes along that not only encapsulates the mood of its era but also tells a compelling story that resonates across generations. “Don’t Stand So Close to Me” by The Police is one such track. I remember the first time I heard it on the radio; its haunting melody and intriguing lyrics captured my attention instantly. The song’s narrative of forbidden attraction and its underlying tension made it unforgettable.
About The Composition
- Title: Don’t Stand So Close to Me
- Composer: Sting (Gordon Sumner)
- Premiere Date: September 1980
- Album/Opus/Collection: Zenyatta Mondatta
- Genre: Rock, New Wave
Background
“Don’t Stand So Close to Me” was written by Sting, the lead singer and bassist of The Police. The song was released as the lead single from their third studio album, “Zenyatta Mondatta,” in 1980. It quickly became a commercial success, reaching number one on the UK Singles Chart and earning a Grammy Award for Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal in 1981.
The song was inspired by Sting’s experiences as a teacher before his music career took off. The lyrics tell the story of a young teacher’s illicit attraction to one of his female students, drawing parallels with Vladimir Nabokov’s novel “Lolita.” Despite its controversial subject matter, the song was well-received, becoming one of The Police’s most iconic tracks.
Musical Style
“Don’t Stand So Close to Me” is characterized by its catchy, minimalist melody and the distinctive reggae-influenced beat that The Police were known for. The song’s structure is relatively simple, with verses and a chorus that build tension through Sting’s evocative vocals and Andy Summers’ staccato guitar riffs. Stewart Copeland’s drumming adds a layer of complexity, driving the song forward with a mix of rock and reggae rhythms.
The song’s bridge features an eerie synthesizer line, adding to the overall sense of unease and highlighting the emotional intensity of the lyrics. This combination of musical elements creates a compelling backdrop for the song’s narrative, emphasizing the themes of temptation and restraint.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “Don’t Stand So Close to Me” explore the inappropriate attraction between a teacher and his student, capturing the discomfort and danger of such a relationship. Lines like “Young teacher, the subject of schoolgirl fantasy” and “Her friends are so jealous, you know how bad girls get” paint a vivid picture of the situation, while the chorus, “Don’t stand so close to me,” underscores the tension and the need for distance.
Sting’s storytelling ability shines through in the lyrics, making the characters’ emotions and the moral implications clear without being overly explicit. The song’s narrative is both compelling and unsettling, reflecting the complexities of human attraction and the consequences of crossing ethical boundaries.
Performance History
“Don’t Stand So Close to Me” has been performed numerous times by The Police during their tours in the 1980s and in their 2007-2008 reunion tour. The song’s live performances often emphasized its energetic beat and the band’s tight musical interplay, making it a highlight of their concerts.
Over the years, the song has been covered by various artists and has appeared in numerous compilations and live albums, cementing its status as a classic in the rock and new wave genres.
Cultural Impact
Beyond its success on the charts, “Don’t Stand So Close to Me” has left a lasting impact on popular culture. The song’s theme has been referenced in films, television shows, and literature, often used to underscore narratives of forbidden love or ethical dilemmas. Its influence extends beyond music, contributing to discussions about the boundaries between personal and professional relationships.
Legacy
“Don’t Stand So Close to Me” remains a powerful and relevant song, more than four decades after its release. Its exploration of taboo subjects, combined with The Police’s distinctive sound, ensures that it continues to resonate with new audiences. The song’s legacy is a testament to Sting’s songwriting prowess and The Police’s ability to create music that is both thought-provoking and timeless.
Conclusion
Reflecting on “Don’t Stand So Close to Me,” it’s clear why the song has endured as a classic. Its compelling narrative, combined with the band’s innovative musical style, makes it a standout track in The Police’s discography. I encourage you to listen to this song and explore The Police’s body of work further. For a captivating experience, seek out live performances of the song, such as those from their 2007-2008 reunion tour, to witness the band’s dynamic energy and enduring appeal.
Video
Lyrics
Young teacher, the subject
Of schoolgirl fantasy
She wants him so badly
Knows what she wants to be
Inside him, there’s longing
This girl’s an open page
Book marking, she’s so close now
This girl is half his age
Don’t stand, don’t stand so
Don’t stand so close to me
Don’t stand, don’t stand so
Don’t stand so close to me
Her friends are so jealous
You know how bad girls get
Sometimes it’s not so easy
To be the teacher’s pet
Temptation, frustration
So bad it makes him cry
Wet bus stop, she’s waiting
His car is warm and dry
Don’t stand, don’t stand so
Don’t stand so close to me
Don’t stand, don’t stand so
Don’t stand so close to me
Loose talk in the classroom
To hurt they try and try
Strong words in the staff room
The accusations fly
It’s no use, he sees her
He starts to shake and cough
Just like the old man in
That book by Nabokov
Don’t stand, don’t stand so
Don’t stand so close to me
Don’t stand, don’t stand so
Don’t stand so close to me
Don’t stand, don’t stand so
Don’t stand so close to me
Don’t stand, don’t stand so
Don’t stand so close to me
Don’t stand, don’t stand so
Don’t stand so close to me
Don’t stand, don’t stand so
Don’t stand so close to me
Don’t stand, don’t stand so
Don’t stand so close to me
Don’t stand, don’t stand so
Don’t stand so close to me