About the song
The Police’s “Can’t Stand Losing You” is a memorable track that showcases the band’s unique blend of rock, punk, and reggae influences. Released in 1978 as part of their debut album, Outlandos d’Amour, the song represents an early glimpse into the distinctive sound and style that would come to define the band throughout their career.
Written by Sting, the band’s lead vocalist and principal songwriter, “Can’t Stand Losing You” combines the raw energy of punk with the rhythmic influences of reggae. The song’s lyrics explore themes of heartbreak and desperation, expressing a deep sense of longing and the emotional turmoil that accompanies the end of a relationship. Sting’s distinctive voice, coupled with the song’s driving beat and catchy melody, helps convey the intensity of these emotions.
Upon its release, “Can’t Stand Losing You” garnered significant attention and success. It reached number 2 on the UK Singles Chart, underscoring The Police’s rising popularity and their ability to capture the zeitgeist of the late 1970s. In the United States, the song also made a notable impact, climbing to number 42 on the Billboard Hot 100. The track’s success helped establish The Police as a prominent force in the music scene, setting the stage for their subsequent hits and solidifying their reputation for blending different musical styles.
The song’s infectious guitar riff, energetic rhythm section, and poignant lyrics are emblematic of The Police’s early sound. “Can’t Stand Losing You” remains a cherished part of their discography, representing the band’s ability to craft compelling music that resonates with listeners on both an emotional and a musical level.
In summary, “Can’t Stand Losing You” is a key track from The Police’s debut album, showcasing Sting’s songwriting prowess and the band’s innovative approach to music. Its success and enduring appeal make it a significant piece of their musical legacy.
Video
Lyrics
Called you so many times today
And I guess it’s all true what your girlfriends say
That you don’t ever want to see me again
And your brother’s gonna kill me, and he’s six feet ten
I guess you’d call it cowardice
But I’m not prepared to go on like this
I can’t, I can’t, I can’t stand losing
I can’t, I can’t, I can’t stand losing
I can’t, I can’t, I can’t, I can’t stand losing you
I can’t stand losing you
I can’t stand losing you
I can’t stand losing you
I see you sent my letters back
And my LP records, and they’re all scratched
I can’t see the point in another day
When nobody listens to a word I say
You can call it lack of confidence
But to carry on living doesn’t make no sense
I can’t, I can’t, I can’t stand losing
I can’t, I can’t, I can’t stand losing
I can’t, I can’t, I can’t stand losing
I can’t, I can’t, I can’t stand losing
I can’t, I can’t, I can’t stand losing
I can’t, I can’t, I can’t stand losing
Oh
I guess this is our last goodbye
And you don’t care, so I won’t cry
But you’ll be sorry when I’m dead
And all this guilt will be on your head
I guess you’d call it suicide
But I’m too full to swallow my pride
I can’t, I can’t, I can’t stand losing
I can’t, I can’t, I can’t stand losing
I can’t, I can’t, I can’t stand losing
I can’t, I can’t, I can’t stand losing
I can’t, I can’t, I can’t stand losing
I can’t, I can’t, I can’t stand losing
I can’t, I can’t, I can’t stand losing
I can’t, I can’t, I can’t stand losing
I can’t, I can’t, I can’t stand losing
I can’t, I can’t, I can’t stand losing
I can’t, I can’t, I can’t stand losing
I can’t, I can’t, I can’t stand losing
I can’t, I can’t, I can’t stand losing