Sting recently shared his thoughts on the controversy surrounding Diddy’s sampling of Police’s hit song “Every Breath You Take” in his 1997 track “I’ll Be Missing You.” Despite the legal issues and allegations against Diddy, Sting made it clear that the iconic song still belongs to him and remains special.
During an interview with the Los Angeles Times, Sting emphasized that the situation with Diddy did not affect his view of the song. He stated that the track is still very much his own, and fans continue to enjoy hearing it performed.
The ongoing legal battles and civil lawsuits faced by Diddy, including a sex trafficking and racketeering case, have added another layer of complexity to the issue. Diddy previously claimed to have paid Sting $5,000 a day for the sample use, but later clarified that it was a joke and that he and Sting have a longstanding friendship.
“I’ll Be Missing You” was a tribute to the late Notorious B.I.G. and became a major hit for Diddy. The rapper sought Sting’s permission for the sample only after the song was already released, sparking discussions between the two artists.
In a 2003 interview with Rolling Stone, Sting mentioned that the uncleared sample had brought him significant financial gain. He shared a conversation with Elton John, who predicted that Sting would become even wealthier due to the sample. Sting revealed that he used some of the profits to put his children through college, highlighting the financial impact of the situation.
Despite the legal and financial aspects of the controversy, Sting and Diddy have maintained a friendship throughout the years. The story behind the sampling of “Every Breath You Take” in “I’ll Be Missing You” showcases the complexities of the music industry and the legal issues that can arise when artists use samples without proper clearance.
Overall, Sting’s perspective on the situation emphasizes the enduring popularity of his music and the impact it has had on his life and career. The story serves as a reminder of the challenges artists face in protecting their work and navigating the complexities of the music business.
