Sting

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
In Europe and America
There’s a growing feeling of hysteria
Conditioned to respond to all the threats
In the rhetorical speeches of the Soviets
Mr. Khrushchev said we will bury you
I don’t subscribe to this point of view
It would be such an ignorant thing to do
If the Russians love their children too

[Verse 2]
How can I save my little boy
From Oppenheimer's deadly toy?
There is no monopoly of common sense
On either side of the political fence

[Chorus]
We share the same biology
Regardless of ideology
Believe me when I say to you
I hope the Russians love their children too

[Instrumental break]

[Verse 3]
There is no historical precedent
To put the words in the mouth of the president
There’s no such thing as a winnable war
It’s a lie we don’t believe anymore
Mr. Reagan says we will protect you
I don’t subscribe to this point of view
Believe me when I say to you
I hope the Russians love their children too
[Chorus]
We share the same biology
Regardless of ideology
What might save us me and you
Is if the Russians love their children too

[Instrumental outro]

From the lavish and contemplative record, The Dream of the Blue Turtles, came Sting's fourth single "Russians." It was a spectacular chart-topper that enjoyed much success and acclaim upon its release. The hit song reached the top 30 in nine different countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom. Interestingly, this track was the highest-charting single of Sting's UK career up until 1994.

About Russians

Sting was inspired to write the song after watching a pirated satellite Russian broadcast of Russian children's programming and came to the realization that "Russians love their children just as we do." As he observed, the children of Russia were not evil, and so the song aimed to reflect Sting's beliefs about the Cold War era. The elegant melody of "Russians" is modeled on "Lieutenant Kije Suite" by the Russian composer Prokofiev. In 1985, he made it clear that "It's not a pro-Soviet song, it's pro-children."

The melancholic yet upbeat tune features sweeping layers of guitar, piano, and horns. Sting's exceptional lyrics have evoked a strong emotional response and have been applauded for their thought-provoking qualities. The song's lyrics are an exploration of the silver lining in the confrontation between the United States and the Soviet Union.

"Russians" is an ode to all the things that humans have in common, regardless of their nationality or heritage. It is a song about the shared love that humanity has for their families and children and the untold sacrifices made to secure their future.

The track's lyrics evoke a powerful sense of longing and anxiety, conveying pain and sorrow. "Russians" offers us an invaluable perspective, reminding us that everyone has loved ones and that they are all going through life trying to protect them.

The nostalgia of "Russians" has tentacles that reach far beyond the issues of the Cold War era. The lyrics are both prescient and timeless, stirring the heartstrings of listeners nearly four decades after the song was originally released.

The peaceful and harmonious atmosphere of the song is a perfect mix of brilliance, simplicity, and harmony. Sting's wonderful lyrics will undoubtedly inspire you to embrace your love for humanity and think about the unifying things that connect us all.

The song resurfaced to public attention again in March 2022

Amid the violent escalation of the Russo-Ukrainian War, Sting responded with a video on Instagram. He performed "Russians" in a touching tribute to all those affected by the violence of war. The video was widely shared on social media and was commended for its poignant message of unity. Sting's reimagining of "Russians" was a transformative experience for many, underscoring the need for us all to come together in times of crisis and stand up for what is right.

The song represents a high point in Sting's career, not only as one of the best musicians of his generation but also for his unparalleled ability to capture the human experience in his lyrics. His words are exemplary of his desire to look beyond differences and unite the world through music.

"Russians" is an eternal reminder of the common experiences that unite us all as humans. As Sting so eloquently put it, "There is no monopoly on love. One person can love just as powerfully as two people." This powerful message is woven into the very fabric of the song, which is why it continues to resonate with us to this day.

In sum, "Russians" is an embodiment of Sting's philosophy and approach to making music. The song's intense and introspective quality is a testament to its timeless nature, and the powerful message that lies within is a constant reminder that we are all part of one human family.

• Release Date: June 1, 1985
• Artist: Sting