The Police song that refused to stay quiet 🎶

On this day in Music History 7th April 1978

On this day in history The Police released 'Roxanne' as the first single from their debut album Outlandos d'Amour.

Before the global fame, before the stadiums, The Police released a raw, haunting debut single that almost slipped through the cracks…

‘Roxanne’ written by Sting told the story of a man falling in love with a prostitute, inspired by a faded theatre poster for Cyrano de Bergerac spotted in a Paris hotel foyer. Not exactly your typical love song and maybe that’s why it didn’t catch fire straight away.

On its first release in 1978, the track barely made a ripple. But great songs have a way of finding their moment…

When re-released in 1979, ‘Roxanne’ climbed to No.12 on the UK Singles Chart launching Outlandos d’Amour and setting The Police on the road to becoming one of the biggest bands on the planet.

From a near-miss to a timeless anthem not bad for a song that almost got left behind.

🎸 Want to hear stories like this where they actually happened?

Join my Rock & Roll Walking Tour of Soho from legendary recording studios to the streets where iconic tracks like this began their journey. We will also pass by the music venue where as a globally established band The Police played a secret gig as the "The Aces" in December 1981.

🎶 And that’s how music makes history.

📆 Check the Calendar in the main website menu for available tour dates and times.

🧑‍🧑‍🧒 Private group and Corporate tours are available please just email

me direct for details.