Sting Unsure He Would Have Returned To The Police If Solo Career Failed

Looking back at his first foray as a solo artist in 1985, Sting says he 'hoped' at the time that he wouldn't have to return to The Police if his debut flopped.

Speaking to Mojo magazine, Sting described the idea of a "band" is an adolescent concept. While he admires Police drummer Stewart Copeland and guitarist Andy Summers, the singer/bassist felt there were limits on what he could accomplish creatively with The Police.

As a solo artist, on the other hand, he's been free to explore any creative avenue ... as long as the fans are willing to follow.

"I don't think any grown man can be in a band actually," Sting said. "A band is a teenage gang. Who wants to be in a teenage gang when you're knocking 70? It doesn't allow you to evolve. You have to obey rules and the gestalt of the band. As much as I love the Stones and AC/DC, it's hard to see growth in their music. For me, the band was merely a vehicle for the songs and not the other way 'round."

Sting added that, prior to his solo debut, both Copeland and Summers had made albums without him; there was no question whether he had the "right" to go his own way. The question was whether it would work.

"I recruited a band from the jazz world, and I was lucky it was a hit," he continued. "I have no idea what would have happened if it hadn't been a hit. Would I have gone back to the band and eaten humble pie? I hope not."

Sting's debut solo album, The Dream of the Blue Turtles, reached No. 3 on the U.K. album chart and No. 2 on the Billboard Top 200. It also earned four Grammy nominations.

The Police would not reunite until their Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction 18 years later. The band did not tour again until its 2007 reunion.

These days, the trio still communicates, though Sting notes that Copeland, Summers and himself all have "separate lives."

"I'm very grateful for those guys and their immense talent and their patience with me," he added. "I love them."

Sting gets back on tour in North America in May. His 'My Songs' Las Vegas residency at Caesar's Palace resumes in June. Go here for tour dates and more information.