Stewart Copeland, renowned drummer of the iconic band The Police, is currently navigating the complexities of fame and creativity as he embarks on a new phase of his career. Amid ongoing legal disputes regarding unpaid royalties with bandmate Sting, Copeland is focused on his conversation tour titled *Have I Said Too Much?* This series allows him to share insights from his diverse experiences in music and life, moving beyond the controversies surrounding his band.
Copeland, alongside guitarist Andy Summers, has recently filed a lawsuit against Sting in the London High Court, seeking millions in allegedly unpaid royalties from their time together in The Police. The band, which enjoyed immense success from 1977 to 1984, remains a subject of fascination for fans and critics alike. Copeland emphasizes that, despite their differences, the band never engaged in physical confrontations, instead opting for mental sparring. “We found much more effective ways of hurting each other with mental scalpels,” he quips.
Exploring New Creative Avenues
As he enters the fourth year of his tour, Copeland reflects on the unique experience it provides. “I’m sort of getting the hang of it and I like it,” he states. His performances have been described as reminiscent of “your most hyperactive mate with the best stories at the pub.” This new format, while not as adrenaline-fueled as live concerts, offers a different kind of enjoyment, centered around humor and storytelling.
During an interview from his home in Los Angeles, Copeland showcases his impressive collection of musical instruments housed in what he calls the Sacred Grove. “This is the world’s largest collection of the cheapest instruments money can buy,” he proudly reveals. His space is fully equipped for recording, allowing spontaneous jam sessions with various artists. The results of these collaborations can be viewed on the Sacred Grove YouTube channel, where he shares the joy of music-making without any commercial agenda.
Copeland’s artistic ventures extend beyond music. He has authored a memoir titled *Strange Things Happen* and produced an investigative podcast called *My Dad the Spy*, which delves into his father’s background in CIA operations. His work provides a unique perspective on his life and career, characterized by a blend of humor and introspection.
Understanding the Burden of Fame
In his upcoming book, *How to Survive Your Mojo*, Copeland addresses the psychological effects of fame. He interviews various artists, including Carly Simon and Gene Simmons, exploring the challenges of transitioning from a normal person to a public figure. “You walk into a room, you don’t know a single person in there, but they all know you,” he explains. This phenomenon often leads to feelings of isolation, despite the adoration from fans.
Copeland humorously warns that while fame can bring excitement, it can also become overwhelming. “There is such a thing as too much adoration,” he asserts. “People go through cultish-type behaviour with regard to rock stars. But we are not gods. For one thing… we’re gonna die.” His reflections reveal a deeper understanding of the human experience, emphasizing the need for balance and grounding.
Born in the United States but raised in Beirut, Copeland’s upbringing was influenced by his father’s role in significant CIA operations during the 1950s. This unique background contributed to his sense of cultural identity and shaped his artistic voice. “A big part of me is Arabic,” he notes, acknowledging the diverse musical influences that inform his work.
Copeland’s journey into music began at the age of 12, motivated by the desire to connect with others through rhythm and sound. He describes the physical impact of music, stating, “Music actually causes you to twitch weirdly.” His early experiences in choir further enriched his understanding of music as a powerful form of expression and connection.
Today, Copeland continues to explore new horizons, including operatic compositions inspired by literary figures such as Edgar Allan Poe and Nikola Tesla. His current project, an opera based on James Joyce’s *Finnegans Wake*, reflects his adventurous spirit and willingness to challenge conventional boundaries. “The common response is, ‘Are you f—ing out of your mind?’” he jokes, highlighting the audacity of his artistic pursuits.
As he reflects on his life and legacy, Copeland finds fulfillment in his extensive family. “Seven kids. My mother was an archaeologist and scientist and anthropologist somewhat as well,” he shares. His mother’s legacy resonates with him, reinforcing his sense of purpose and continuity.
Stewart Copeland will bring his *Have I Said Too Much?* tour to Forum II in Melbourne on January 14, 2024, and to the State Theatre in Sydney on January 16, 2024. As he navigates the complexities of fame, creativity, and personal connection, Copeland remains a vibrant figure in the music world, proving that the journey is as important as the destination.
