About the song
The Police’s “King of Pain” is a standout track that showcases the band’s unique ability to blend evocative lyrics with innovative musical arrangements. Released in 1983 as part of their critically acclaimed album Synchronicity, the song delves into themes of personal anguish and existential despair.
Written by Sting, the band’s lead vocalist and primary songwriter, “King of Pain” is filled with vivid imagery and metaphors that reflect Sting’s exploration of emotional suffering and the human condition. The recurring refrain of “I’ll be the king of pain” underscores the song’s introspective and somewhat melancholic tone.
Musically, “King of Pain” features a haunting melody and a blend of rock with subtle new wave influences. Its distinctive guitar riff, combined with Sting’s poignant vocal delivery, creates a mood that is both contemplative and compelling. The song’s arrangement, with its steady beat and atmospheric production, enhances the lyrical themes of isolation and introspection.
Upon its release, “King of Pain” achieved considerable success on the charts. It reached number 3 on the UK Singles Chart and number 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States. This success contributed to the album’s overall impact and solidified Synchronicity as one of The Police’s most celebrated works.
The song’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to resonate with listeners on an emotional level, while also showcasing The Police’s musical versatility and Sting’s songwriting prowess. “King of Pain” remains a significant part of The Police’s discography, highlighting their skill in combining lyrical depth with innovative musicality.
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Lyrics
There’s a little black spot on the sun today
It’s the same old thing as yesterday
There’s a black hat caught in a high tree top
There’s a flag pole rag and the wind won’t stop
I have stood here before inside the pouring rain
With the world turning circles running ’round my brain
I guess I’m always hoping that you’ll end this reign
But it’s my destiny to be the king of pain
There’s a little black spot on the sun today
(That’s my soul up there)
It’s the same old thing as yesterday
(That’s my soul up there)
There’s a black hat caught in a high tree top
(That’s my soul up there)
There’s a flag pole rag and the wind won’t stop
(That’s my soul up there)
I have stood here before inside the pouring rain
With the world turning circles running ’round my brain
I guess I’m always hoping that you’ll end this reign
But it’s my destiny to be the king of pain
There’s a fossil that’s trapped in a high cliff wall
(That’s my soul up there)
There’s a dead salmon frozen in a waterfall
(That’s my soul up there)
There’s a blue whale beached by a springtime’s ebb
(That’s my soul up there)
There’s a butterfly trapped in a spider’s web
(That’s my soul up there)
I’ve stood here before inside the pouring rain
With the world turning circles running ’round my brain
I guess I’m always hoping that you’ll end this reign
But it’s my destiny to be the king of pain
There’s a king on a throne with his eyes torn out
There’s a blind man looking for a shadow of doubt
There’s a rich man sleeping on a golden bed
There’s a skeleton choking on a crust of bread
King of pain
There’s a red fox torn by a huntsman’s pack
(That’s my soul up there)
There’s a black-winged gull with a broken back
(That’s my soul up there)
There’s a little black spot on the sun today
It’s the same old thing as yesterday
I’ve stood here before inside the pouring rain
With the world turning circles running ’round my brain
I guess I’m always hoping that you’ll end this reign
But it’s my destiny to be the king of pain
King of pain
King of pain
King of pain
I’ll always be king of pain
I’ll always be king of pain
I’ll always be king of pain
I’ll always be king of pain
I’ll always be king of pain
I’ll always be king of pain
I’ll always be king of pain