"King Of Pain" by The Police

Reign with The Police's haunting classic, "King Of Pain." This sophisticated 1983 New Wave hit from the massively successful album Synchronicity uses striking imagery and an atmospheric soundscape. Sting's evocative lyrics and the unique arrangement make it one of their most compelling and memorable tracks.

Released from The Police's chart-topping 1983 album Synchronicity and charting as a single into 1984, "King Of Pain" showcased their evolving and sophisticated sound. Written by Sting, this atmospheric New Wave track relies heavily on layered keyboards and distinctive marimba textures rather than prominent guitar riffs, creating a unique arrangement that stood out on the pop charts.

"King Of Pain" became another major international hit for The Police, reaching the Top 3 on the US Billboard Hot 100. Its power lies in the vivid, often dark natural imagery presented in the lyrics ("black spot on the sun," "dead salmon," "skeleton choking"), coupled with Sting's compelling vocal delivery. It remains a highly regarded track, praised for its unique atmosphere and lyrical depth today, April 13, 2025.

SONG MEANING: "King Of Pain" describes a state of mind where the narrator is overwhelmed by suffering and sees only negative omens and reflections of their own pain in the world around them ("There's a little black spot on the sun today... That's my soul up there"). By declaring "I have stood here before... And I'll be here tomorrow... That's my destiny / I'm the king of pain," they express a feeling of being inescapably trapped within this realm of suffering and seeing it mirrored everywhere they look.