Don’t Stand So Close To Me
Stats for “Don’t Stand So Close To Me” by The Police
Release Year: 1980
Genre: New Wave, Rock
Album: Zenyatta Mondatta
Length: 4:04
- Don’t Stand So Close To Me by The Police
- Key and Pitch
- Instruments, Effects, and Vocals
- Vocals
- Keys to Playing or Singing
- Don’t Stand So Close To Me – The Police
- Lyrical Structure and Subject
- AABB Rhyme Pattern
- Key of the Lyrics
- Singing Rhythmic Patterns
- Storytelling in the Lyrics
- Simple Explanation of the Story
- Don’t Stand So Close To Me by The Police (1980)
- Chord Progression
- Main Chords for Piano and Guitar
- Special Playing Instructions
- Finger Placement
- Chord Diagrams
- Expert Advice
- Genre Overview
- Founding of the Genre
- The Police’s Impact
- Contemporaries Comparison
- Related Genres
- Contrast with an Unrelated Genre
- Enigmatic Clue
- Analysis of “Don’t Stand So Close To Me”
- Overall Analysis
- Detailed Breakdown
- Final Thoughts
- Recording Quality/Production
- Techniques in Recording
- Mixing and Mastering
- Effects Processing
- Special Equipment
- Creators of “Don’t Stand So Close To Me”
- Complex Layers of Proximity
- Popular Links about “Don’t Stand So Close To Me” by The Police
Don’t Stand So Close To Me by The Police
The song by the British new wave rock band The Police was released in 1980 as the lead-single from their third studio album, ‘Zenyatta Mondatta’. The highly popular song was written by band’s frontman, Sting.
Composition
“Don’t Stand So Close to Me” is primarily composed by Sting, featuring his distinctive high-pitched vocal style.
Instrumentation
- Sting contributes the main vocal line, as well as the bass guitar part.
- Andy Summers plays an intricate, reggae inspired guitar part.
- Stewart Copeland, offers a distinctive high-hat rhythm with complex percussive elements.
Lyrics and Theme
The song tell a controversial story of a schoolgirl’s crush on her teacher which leads to an affair, causing the teacher to feel torn between temptation and fear of the repercussions.
Composition Details
- The song is played in the key of G minor.
- The tempo of ‘Don’t Stand So Close to Me’ is moderately fast, at approximately 140 beats per minute.
- The structure of the song follows a common verse-chorus format, with an instrumental break that highlights the guitar work of Summers.
Critical Reception and Impact
The song was a big commercial success, reaching #1 on UK Singles Chart and #10 on US Billboard Hot 100. It’s remembered for its controversial theme and catchy, reggae-influenced sound.
Legacy
A re-recorded version was released in 1986 as ‘Don’t Stand So Close To Me ’86’. However, it was notably less successful, suggesting the original recording had an unique appeal and freshness that couldn’t be recreated.
Key and Pitch
The song “Don’t Stand So Close To Me” by The Police is in the key of G Major.
Instruments, Effects, and Vocals
The song features drums, bass guitar, electric guitar, synthesizer, and vocals. It utilizes a reggae-style guitar rhythm, signature to The Police.
Main Instrument & Style
The main instrument is the electric guitar, played with a clean tone and chorus effect, creating a shimmering sound. The guitar uses arpeggios and syncopated rhythms typical of reggae and new wave.
The guitar sound is bright and staccato, producing a bouncing, restless feel.
Phonetic Onomatopoeia
twick-twick-chah, twang-twing-chick, plink-plunk-scha.
Vocals
The vocals are sharp and slightly detached, which complements the tense theme of the song.
Insightful metaphor: The vocals are like a whisper in a crowded room, intimate yet isolated.
Phonetic Breakdown of Key Lyrics
“Don’t stand so close to me” – “Dohnt staand soe cloase tuh me”
Instrument & Vocals Harmonization
In the chorus, the bass and guitar sync up tightly, while Sting’s vocals ride over the driving rhythm, creating a tension that matches the song’s theme.
Keys to Playing or Singing
- Focus on clean, staccato guitar with chorus effect.
- Maintain a tight rhythm with reggae influence.
- Vocals should be clear, with an air of detachment.
- Ensure harmony between instruments and vocals, especially in the chorus.
The afternoon light filtered through the classroom blinds, dappling the desks in stripes of warmth. Mr. Bennett tugged at his collar and adjusted his glasses. He glanced over his open book of literature, trying—unsuccessfully—to ignore the intensity of a certain gaze from the second row.
Sophie Hughes tapped her pencil rhythmically against her notebook, eyes fixed on Mr. Bennett with a curiosity that bordered on something more curious. It wasn’t exactly infatuation; it was different. There was a boundary that both felt but neither could define—it hovered thickly in the spaces between them.
Mr. Bennett cleared his throat, shifting uneasily. “Remember to read the next chapter for tomorrow,” he said, his voice a little too loud, covering the silent tension threatening to fill the room.
As the students began to pack their bags, Sophie lingered, her steps deliberately slow. She approached the desk, her presence both innocent and unsettling. The air was charged, the unspoken weighted heavily between them.
“Is there anything you need, Sophie?” Mr. Bennett asked, his tone carefully neutral, an island of composure amid internal churn.
She hesitated, her eyes locking with his, a moment brimming with unsaid thoughts. “No, sir,” she finally replied, her voice soft but lined with something ancient and potent. “Just… wanted to thank you for today’s lesson.”
He nodded, murmur thin, “Of course.”
A lingering tension resonated as she turned and walked out, leaving a silence that roared loudly in its solitude.
Don’t Stand So Close To Me – The Police
- Lyrics: “Young teacher, the subject of schoolgirl fantasy” (sung with a storytelling tone)
- Lyrics: “She wants him so badly, knows what she wants to be” (sung with an eager and longing voice)
- Lyrics: “Inside her, there’s longing” (expressed with building intensity)
- Lyrics: “This girl’s an open page” (sung smoothly, like a narrative unfolding)
- Lyrics: “Book marking, she’s so close now” (slightly faster, creating tension)
- Lyrics: “This girl is half his age” (drops back to a smoother, slower delivery)
- Lyrics: “Don’t stand, don’t stand so, don’t stand so close to me” (repeated with a catchy riff, upbeat)
Lyrical Structure and Subject
The lyrics follow a clear narrative. They deal with a complicated relationship between a teacher and a student.
AABB Rhyme Pattern
The lyrics are structured in couplets, with each pair of lines rhyming, fitting the AABB pattern throughout.
Key of the Lyrics
The song is typically sung in the key of E minor.
Singing Rhythmic Patterns
The rhythmic pattern is steady, with a mix of syncopation that adds tension to the delivery.
Storytelling in the Lyrics
Yes, the lyrics tell a story about inappropriate feelings and the consequences that stem from them.
Simple Explanation of the Story
A teacher becomes attracted to a young student. The student feels flattered but is unaware of the implications. The story highlights the struggles of boundaries and morality in this situation.
Don’t Stand So Close To Me by The Police (1980)
Verse 1
Chord Progression
The primary chords for “Don’t Stand So Close To Me” by The Police are:
- Verse: A – C#m – F#m – D
- Chorus: B – C#m – D – A
Main Chords for Piano and Guitar
Piano Chords
- A: A – C# – E
- C#m: C# – E – G#
- F#m: F# – A – C#
- D: D – F# – A
- B: B – D# – F#
Guitar Chords
- A: 0 0 2 2 2 0
- C#m: x 4 6 6 6 4
- F#m: 2 4 4 2 2 2
- D: x x 0 2 3 2
- B: x 2 4 4 4 2
Special Playing Instructions
Use a steady strumming pattern for guitar. For piano, focus on a syncopated rhythm.
Finger Placement
Keep fingers arched and press down firmly on Piano keys. For Guitar:
- A: 1st finger on 2nd fret of D string, 2nd finger on 2nd fret of G string, 3rd finger on 2nd fret of B string.
- C#m: 1st finger barring all strings on 4th fret.
- F#m: 1st finger barring on 2nd fret.
- D: Place fingers on the 2nd fret of G, 3rd fret of B, and 2nd fret of high E string.
- B: Index finger barring on 2nd fret, rest on 4th fret.
Chord Diagrams
A:
E|---0--- B|---2--- G|---2--- D|---2--- A|---0--- E|-------
C#m:
E|------- B|---5--- G|---6--- D|---6--- A|---4--- E|-------
F#m:
E|---2--- B|---2--- G|---2--- D|---4--- A|---4--- E|-------
D:
E|---2--- B|---3--- G|---2--- D|---0--- A|------- E|-------
B:
E|---2--- B|---4--- G|---4--- D|---4--- A|---2--- E|-------
Expert Advice
1. Strum lightly at first, build dynamics gradually.
2. Focus on clean transitions between chords.
3. Practice regularly to improve timing and rhythm.
Genre Overview
“Don’t Stand So Close To Me” by The Police is primarily categorized as rock, with strong influences from reggae. This genre blend was a hallmark of the band’s style, drawing from punk’s rawness and reggae’s rhythmic feel.
Founding of the Genre
Rock emerged in the 1950s, blending elements of rhythm and blues, country, and jazz. The genre saw evolution through the 60s and 70s, leading to the rise of punk and reggae. The Police combined these influences, creating a unique sound that captured a wide audience.
The Police’s Impact
The Police helped popularize reggae within rock, making it more accessible. Their catchy melodies and socially conscious lyrics set them apart, influencing many bands that followed.
Contemporaries Comparison
Contemporaries like Talking Heads and U2 shared a similar fusion of rock with other genres. Talking Heads brought a more avant-garde approach, while U2 focused on anthemic rock sound.
Similar Songs
- “Another Brick in the Wall” by Pink Floyd
- “Roxanne” by The Police
Comparison on a Neutral Scale
“Another Brick in the Wall”: Themes of rebellion, education critique; darker sound. Solid rock instrumentation.
“Roxanne”: More emotive, stronger narrative about love/longing. Similar reggae influence.
Related Genres
Rock relates closely to punk and new wave. Punk is more raw and aggressive, while new wave offers more synthesizer and pop elements.
Contrast with an Unrelated Genre
Compare to hip-hop: In hip-hop, message delivery is often rapid-fire and beat-driven. “Don’t Stand So Close To Me” focuses on melody and traditional rock instrumentation. Different themes: sexuality vs. personal struggle or social issues in hip-hop.
Enigmatic Clue
W3LL, 4T 1NCLIN4TI0N: 1N THE GNASHING GLOOM, D4NCE 0F S0L1L0QUY, OV3R, R3P3TITION CONVEYS: M1ND T4K3S F1GHT – F1N4LLY, B3WARE THE P3R1L0US G4P!
Analysis of “Don’t Stand So Close To Me”
Tone
The tone of “Don’t Stand So Close To Me” is tense and uneasy. It presents a situation charged with emotional conflict. The lyrics talk about a forbidden relationship, which adds an underlying feeling of discomfort. There is a sense of urgency and caution throughout the song. You can feel the pressure of inappropriate feelings and the potential consequences. The narrator speaks from a place of anxiety and awareness of potential moral issues.
Tempo
The tempo of the song is moderate. It does not rush, but it moves steadily. This tempo helps create a feeling of tension without being too frantic. You can easily follow the song’s progression. It maintains a consistent pace that allows the lyrical themes to be expressed clearly. The moderate speed also reflects the emotional weight of the subject matter.
Melody
The melody is catchy but has a slightly haunting quality. It fits well with the lyrics and carries the feeling of unease. The vocal line carries a sense of longing and apprehension. It is not overly complex, making it memorable. The repetition in the melody reinforces the themes of obsession and discomfort.
Rhythm
The rhythm is steady and syncopated at times. There is a mix of regular beats with unexpected accents. This creates a feeling of unpredictability, matching the song’s themes. The rhythm supports the tension in the lyrics. It keeps the listener engaged without overwhelming them.
Harmony
The harmony is straightforward yet effective. It uses simple chord progressions that complement the melody. The harmonies create a sense of moving forward but also hold back, reflecting the internal conflict in the lyrics. The interplay between the different vocal lines adds depth without being overly complicated.
Overall Analysis
The song crafts a powerful narrative about a complicated and inappropriate relationship. The tone, tempo, melody, rhythm, and harmony all work together to create a sense of tension and urge. This serves the song’s themes well and makes it memorable.
Detailed Breakdown
1. Tone Analysis
- The tone is tense. The feelings of the narrator are conflicted and complicated.
- The emotional conflict is key. The lyrics provide a clear picture of something that should not happen.
- There’s a sense of danger. The implications of the situation are serious, and the narrator knows it.
2. Tempo Analysis
- The moderate tempo supports the lyrics. It gives space for feelings to develop.
- A steady beat creates a sense of tension without feeling rushed.
- Regular pacing allows for the complexity of the emotions to come through.
3. Melody Analysis
- The melody is easy to remember. It helps the song stick in your mind.
- A haunting quality adds depth. This supports the themes of longing and discomfort.
- Repetition in the melody underscores the obsession present in the lyrics.
4. Rhythm Analysis
- The rhythm has a steady pulse. It keeps you engaged throughout the song.
- Syncopation adds interest. It reflects the unpredictable nature of relationships.
- This rhythm supports the lyrical tension, pushing the story forward.
5. Harmony Analysis
- The chords are simple yet effective. They complement the melody well.
- The harmony mirrors the complexity of emotions. It reinforces the theme of conflict.
- Vocal harmonies add richness without complicating the overall sound.
Final Thoughts
“Don’t Stand So Close To Me” presents a compelling look at complicated emotions within a relationship. All musical elements combine to make the listener feel the discomfort and urgency in the lyrics. The song stands out for its blend of catchy melody and serious subject matter.
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Recording Quality/Production
Recorded in 1980 at the Surrey Sound Studios, the track features a wallet of dynamic range and clarity that was characteristic of the times. The Police relied on analog technology, capturing a raw, live feel. The recording utilized a 16-track tape machine, ensuring that individual instruments and vocals could be isolated effectively.
Techniques in Recording
The production employed various techniques typical of the era:
- Overdubbing: Guitar and vocals were overdubbed to achieve thickness without sacrificing clarity.
- Room Ambience: The drum tracking was recorded in a large room to leverage natural acoustic space.
- Gated Reverb: Used primarily on the snare drum to create a punchy attack without tails that could muddy the mix.
Mixing and Mastering
Mixing was performed with a focus on balance and stereo placement. The bassline (played by Sting) prominently features in the mix, with careful EQ to avoid clash with the rhythm guitar. During mastering, a Fairchild compressor was likely used to tame dynamic peaks while retaining the song’s energy.
Effects Processing
Various effects contributed to the distinct sound:
- Reverb: A subtle plate reverb was applied to the vocals to impart a sense of space without overwhelming the clarity.
- Delay: Short delay settings on the guitar added depth, particularly in the bridge.
- Compression: The use of a UREI 1176 compressor on the vocal tracks helped maintain consistency and sustain.
- Modulation: A chorus effect was utilized subtly on the guitar to enhance its spatial presence.
Special Equipment
Some notable gear involved included:
- Microphones: Neumann U47s for vocals, matched with Shure SM57s on the snare.
- Preamps: Classic Neve preamps provided the warmth and character essential for the track.
- Recording Medium: 2-inch tape allowed for high fidelity and warm sound.
- Effects Pedals: Boss DS-1 distortion pedal was likely used for the guitar to add edge without losing clarity.
Creators of “Don’t Stand So Close To Me”
“Don’t Stand So Close To Me” is a classic song by The Police, released in 1980. The song was written by Sting, the band’s lead vocalist and bassist. It showcases his ability to tackle complex subjects in a relatable way.
Band Members
- Sting – Vocals and Bass
- Andy Summers – Guitar
- Stewart Copeland – Drums
History of the Band
The Police formed in 1977 in London. Their sound blended rock, reggae, and punk influences. They quickly gained popularity in the late 70s and early 80s.
Sting’s Vision
Sting drew inspiration from real-life experiences, reflecting on the dynamics of teacher-student relationships. The lyrics illustrate tension and desire, making a poignant statement.
Musical Collaboration
Andy Summers’ unique guitar riffs and Stewart Copeland’s energetic drumming complement Sting’s lyrical narratives. Their collaboration embodies a synergy that many aspiring creators should study.
Inspiration for Creators
The creation of “Don’t Stand So Close To Me” serves as a lesson for music creators. Focus on personal experiences. Collaborate with others. Experiment with genres. Embrace your creativity and message. This track is a reminder that deep themes can resonate widely with audiences.
Complex Layers of Proximity
“Don’t Stand So Close To Me” explores the suffocating nature of desire, authority, and the blurred lines of consent. On the surface, it’s a narrative of forbidden love, but dive deeper, and you see a critique of power dynamics and vulnerability.
The Teacher-Student Dynamic
At its core, the song dissects the relationship between an authority figure and a young student. This is not just about lust; it raises questions of how power can distort human connection. The teacher symbolizes stability but also exploitation.
- Authority vs Vulnerability: The teacher’s position creates an imbalance. He holds knowledge, but that knowledge becomes a weapon when mixed with his desires.
- Isolation: The student’s isolation due to her youth is palpable. She’s enchanted, caught between admiration and fear.
Physical Proximity and Emotional Distance
The repeated plea for distance is paradoxical. Physical closeness often breeds emotional distance, highlighting the conflict in human relationships. The attraction isn’t just physical; it’s a longing for connection marred by the realities of power.
Societal Reflection
This song also reflects societal failure. It forces us to confront uncomfortable truths about consent, grooming, and the responsibility of those in power. The unsettling ambiguity of the relationship suggests an awareness of societal norms that are broken yet quietly accepted.
The Unfortunate Normalization
Normalization of such dynamics is alarming. The lyrics, delivered with a catchy beat, mask deeply troubling themes. It begs listeners to question: How often do we turn a blind eye to the struggles of those beneath the weight of authority?
Emotional Aftermath
The haunting conclusion of the song resonates long after the last note. What remains is the destructive aftermath of a closeness that should never have been. It’s a reminder of the emotional scars left in the wake of such relationships.
Conclusion: A Haunting Reflection
“Don’t Stand So Close To Me” is not just a tale of illicit love; it’s a mirror reflecting society’s deeper issues. It reminds us of the intricate web of relationships, where proximity can warp intentions and ultimately lead to devastation. It’s both a cautionary tale and a call for introspection.
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