Sting Addresses Diddy Allegations and Arrest Do not “Taint” 1983 classic, “Every Breath You Take”

Sting has finally addressed the topic of Diddy and the legacy of his song.

Sting remains unconcerned about the legacy of his 1983 hit, “Every Breath You Take,” which was famously sampled by Diddy for the 1997 track “I’ll Be Missing You.”

The former Police frontman engaged in a conversation with the Los Angeles Times, addressing the disgraced music mogul as he confronts trial for sexual assault, racketeering, and additional charges.

When questioned about whether Diddy’s allegations affected his perspective on the record, Sting responded with a straightforward “no.”

He stated, “I mean, I’m not sure what happened [with Diddy].” However, it doesn’t diminish the song for me in any way. It remains my song.

Sting acknowledged that fans continue to “absolutely” adore the classic song.

“Every Breath You Take” reached the pinnacle of the Billboard Hot 100, holding the top position for eight weeks in 1983, and stands as the only No. 1 single in The Police’s discography. In 1997, Diddy incorporated the melody for “I’ll Be Missing You” featuring Faith Evans and 112 as a tribute to the late Notorious B.I.G. The tribute held the top position for 11 weeks.

In April 2023, Diddy stated that he was paying Sting $5,000 daily due to the sample. Later, he retracted his statement and acknowledged that he was “being facetious.”

“I want everyone to know that I was just joking!” tweeted the founder of Bad Boy Records. “It’s referred to as being facetious!” My friendship with @OfficialSting has lasted for many years! He never billed me $3K or $5K per day for Missing You. He likely earns over $5K daily from one of the most significant songs in history.

The rapper-producer faced arrest in September on multiple charges, including sexual abuse, sex trafficking, forced labor, kidnapping, arson, and bribery. Despite his efforts to seek bail, it has been denied multiple times until his trial commences in May.