The Police – Roxanne – 1978

About The Song

“Roxanne” is a hit song by the British rock band The Police, released in 1978. It’s one of their signature tracks and has become a classic in the rock genre. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a man pleading with a prostitute named Roxanne to leave her profession and find love with him.

Five facts about “Roxanne” by The Police:

1. Inspiration from a French play: Sting, the lead vocalist and bassist of The Police, was inspired to write “Roxanne” after watching the play “Cyrano de Bergerac,” which features a similar theme of unrequited love.
2. Reggae influence: The Police infused their signature reggae-rock sound into “Roxanne,” incorporating syncopated rhythms and reggae-style guitar strumming, which became a hallmark of their musical style.
3. Controversial theme: The song’s subject matter, addressing a prostitute and her potential redemption through love, sparked controversy upon its release. However, its catchy melody and poignant lyrics propelled it to commercial success.
4. Debut single: “Roxanne” was the debut single from The Police’s debut album, “Outlandos d’Amour.” Its success helped establish the band’s reputation and laid the groundwork for their subsequent rise to fame.
5. Cultural impact: Over the years, “Roxanne” has been covered by numerous artists and featured in various films, television shows, and advertisements, solidifying its status as one of the most iconic songs in rock history. Its memorable chorus and infectious melody continue to resonate with audiences worldwide.

Video

Lyrics

Roxanne
You don’t have to put on the red light
Those days are over
You don’t have to sell your body to the night

Roxanne
You don’t have to wear that dress tonight
Walk the streets for money
You don’t care if it’s wrong or if it’s right

Roxanne
You don’t have to put on the red light
Roxanne
You don’t have to put on the red light

Roxanne (Put on the red light)
Roxanne (Put on the red light)
Roxanne (Put on the red light)
Roxanne (Put on the red light)
Roxanne (Put on the red light)
Ro

I loved you since I knew you
I wouldn’t talk down to you
I have to tell you just how I feel
I won’t share you with another boy

I know my mind is made up
So put away your make up
Told you once I won’t tell you again
It’s a bad way

Roxanne
You don’t have to put on the red light
Roxanne
You don’t have to put on the red light

Roxanne (You don’t have to put on the red light)
Roxanne (Put on the red light)
Roxanne (Put on the red light)
Roxanne (Put on the red light)
Roxanne (Put on the red light)
Roxanne (Put on the red light)
Roxanne (Put on the red light)
Roxanne (Put on the red light)
Roxanne (Put on the red light)
Roxanne (Put on the red light)
Roxanne (You don’t have to put on the red light)
Roxanne (Put on the red light)
Roxanne (Put on the red light)
Roxanne (Put on the red light)
Roxanne (Put on the red light)