Bed’s Too Big Without You

Zoo Freaks, get ready to vibe with some deep cuts and cool facts as The Zoo Crew spins "The Bed's Too Big Without You" by The Police from their iconic album Reggatta de Blanc. This track, a reggae-infused gem, carries a heavy emotional weight. According to author Chris Campion, the song's lyrics were inspired by a tragic event in Sting's life—his first girlfriend took her own life after their breakup, infusing the song with themes of loneliness and heartbreak. Sting's raw, melodic lament, paired with Stewart Copeland's "ricocheting" and "dub-heavy" snare drum rhythms, creates a sound that’s both haunting and captivating. AllMusic critic Chris True praises the band’s ability to blend reggae with new wave, noting that the track never loses its spark, even when it’s just Copeland’s brilliant drumming and Sting’s rolling bass line holding it together. Guitarist Andy Summers called it one of the standout tracks from the album, alongside hits like "Message in a Bottle" and "Walking on the Moon."

The song’s journey didn’t stop with its 1979 release. In 1980, an alternate version was included in the UK’s Six Pack compilation, alongside re-releases of earlier singles like "Roxanne" and "So Lonely." This version, described by critic Chris Welch as having a "more direct impact," was also featured in the box set Message in a Box: The Complete Recordings. The track got a visual treatment too—a music video was filmed for The Kenny Everett Video Show, showing the band miming the song in a suburban house setting. The song’s universal appeal led to covers by artists like Sting himself as a solo act, Ranking Roger, and reggae singer Sheila Hylton, whose 1981 version hit the UK Top 40. Posts on X from @ThePoliceBand highlight its enduring fan love, with one from February 2024 sharing a live performance clip from the 1982 Viña del Mar Festival in Chile, and another in January 2024 noting the limited-edition blue 7” vinyl release from 1980.

The Police began their journey in London in 1977, a time when punk was shaking up the music scene. Sting (born Gordon Sumner), a former teacher and jazz enthusiast, had been playing in local bands like Last Exit in Newcastle. He met drummer Stewart Copeland, an American with a prog-rock background from his time in Curved Air, through a mutual connection in the music scene. Copeland was itching to form a band with a fresh sound, and Sting’s soulful voice and knack for songwriting were a perfect fit. They recruited guitarist Andy Summers, a seasoned player who’d gigged with acts like The Animals and Soft Machine, to complete the trio. Summers, older than his bandmates, brought a textured, jazzy guitar style that set them apart. Their early days were gritty—rehearsing in dingy basements and playing small gigs while blending punk’s raw energy with reggae and jazz influences. This unique fusion, dubbed "white reggae," caught fire with their debut album Outlandos d’Amour in 1978, featuring hits like "Roxanne." By the time Reggatta de Blanc dropped in 1979, The Police were global stars, cementing their status as pioneers of the New Wave movement.

Fans can dive deeper into The Police’s world through their official website, where you’ll find discography, tour history, and news. Connect with them on social media via their Facebook, Instagram, and X accounts, where they share throwback performances and updates. For Zoo Freaks looking to join the fan community, check out PoliceWiki, a fan-run site packed with detailed band history and song trivia. You can also join discussions on the The Police Official Fan Club on Facebook, a lively group for devotees to share their love for the band’s music. So, crank up "The Bed's Too Big Without You" and let The Zoo Crew keep the good vibes flowing!