{"id":46368,"date":"2025-07-17T10:48:35","date_gmt":"2025-07-17T09:48:35","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/?p=46368"},"modified":"2026-03-16T15:13:16","modified_gmt":"2026-03-16T15:13:16","slug":"stewart-copeland-the-police-drummer","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/stewart-copeland-the-police-drummer\/","title":{"rendered":"Stewart Copeland: The Tools Behind The Police Drummer&#8217;s Sound"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_85 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/stewart-copeland-the-police-drummer\/#Stewart_Copeland_a_brief_biography\" >Stewart Copeland: a brief biography\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/stewart-copeland-the-police-drummer\/#Not_just_The_Police_drummer%E2%80%A6\" >Not just The Police drummer\u2026\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/stewart-copeland-the-police-drummer\/#Stewart_Copelands_unique_style_and_technique\" >Stewart Copeland\u2019s unique style and technique\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/stewart-copeland-the-police-drummer\/#Inspirations\" >Inspirations\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/stewart-copeland-the-police-drummer\/#Copelands_kit_and_other_equipment\" >Copeland\u2019s kit and other equipment\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/stewart-copeland-the-police-drummer\/#Legacy_and_influence\" >Legacy and influence\u00a0\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/stewart-copeland-the-police-drummer\/#FAQs\" >FAQs\u00a0<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/stewart-copeland-the-police-drummer\/#How_did_Stewart_Copeland_meet_Sting\" >How did Stewart Copeland meet Sting?\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/stewart-copeland-the-police-drummer\/#How_good_was_The_Police_drummer\" >How good was The Police drummer?\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/stewart-copeland-the-police-drummer\/#What_is_unique_about_Stewart_Copelands_drumming\" >What is unique about Stewart Copeland&#8217;s drumming?\u00a0<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/stewart-copeland-the-police-drummer\/#Final_thoughts\" >Final thoughts\u00a0\u00a0<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<p>[et_pb_section fb_built=&#8221;1&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.16&#8243; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.16&#8243; background_size=&#8221;initial&#8221; background_position=&#8221;top_left&#8221; background_repeat=&#8221;repeat&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_column type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.16&#8243; custom_padding=&#8221;|||&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221; custom_padding__hover=&#8221;|||&#8221;][et_pb_text admin_label=&#8221;Intro&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.17.4&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #999999;\">Featured image: Creative Commons License by <a title=\"User:Acroterion\" href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Stewart_Copeland_Atlanta_1.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Acroterion<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">One of the standout bands of the late \u201970s and early \u201980s was The Police. They were known for their distinctive approach to rock and new wave, with every song blending influences from a range of genres to create a sound that was uniquely theirs. A big part of their groove and that fantastic mix of influences came from drummer Stewart Copeland.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">In this article, we\u2019re taking a closer look at <strong>T<\/strong><\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">he Police drummer<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">. We\u2019ll explore his playing style, who has inspired him, and the tools he used to craft his sound. It&#8217;s not just The Police we&#8217;re delving into, but also Copeland&#8217;s solo projects and work in film and video games. From his sharp hi-hat technique to the gear he trusted most, we\u2019ll break down how he built such a punchy and unmistakable presence behind the kit.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:160,&quot;335559739&quot;:80}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2024\/07\/Secondhand-drums.jpg&#8221; alt=&#8221;Secondhand drums&#8221; title_text=&#8221;Secondhand-drums&#8221; url=&#8221;https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/secondhand\/drums?utm_source=blog&#038;utm_medium=banner&#038;utm_campaign=secondhand_drums&#8221; url_new_window=&#8221;on&#8221; admin_label=&#8221;Secondhand Drums Banner&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.17.4&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_module=&#8221;41660&#8243; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=&#8221;Stewart Copeland: a brief biography &#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.17.4&#8243; background_size=&#8221;initial&#8221; background_position=&#8221;top_left&#8221; background_repeat=&#8221;repeat&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;20px||||false|false&#8221; border_width_top=&#8221;2px&#8221; border_color_top=&#8221;#f08000&#8243; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Stewart_Copeland_a_brief_biography\"><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">Stewart Copeland: a brief biography<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:160,&quot;335559739&quot;:80}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Stewart Copeland\u2019s drumming career began in the mid-1970s with the progressive rock band Curved Air, but it was The Police that brought him international recognition. In 1977, Copeland set out to form a new band that captured the raw energy of punk with a tight three-piece setup. He started with guitarist Henry Padovani and soon added bassist and vocalist Sting. The Police quickly took shape.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Copeland was central to the band\u2019s early direction. He wrote many of their first songs, including their debut single \u201cFall Out\u201d and its B-side \u201cNothing Achieving.\u201d And even as Sting became the main songwriter, Copeland had a say over the arrangements and, of course, the drum parts.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">By the late 1970s and early 1980s, The Police had become one of the biggest bands in the world. Their 1979 album <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Reggatta de Blanc<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> won a Grammy for Best Rock Instrumental Performance. Songs like \u201cRoxanne,\u201d \u201cMessage In A Bottle,\u201d \u201cEvery Little Thing She Does Is Magic\u201d, and \u201cEvery Breath You Take\u201d showed how easily Copeland moved between styles. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">He blended punk, reggae, and rock with precision and energy, helping to define the band\u2019s sound.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Beyond The Police, Copeland has a great career in film, television, and video game music, with credits including <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Dead Like Me<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> and the <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Spyro the Dragon<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> series. Still, it\u2019s his work with The Police that he&#8217;s the most famous for.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_46390\" style=\"width: 1340px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-46390\" class=\"wp-image-46390 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2025\/07\/Stewart-Copeland-at-the-kit.jpg\" alt=\"Stewart Copeland at the kit\" width=\"1330\" height=\"665\" srcset=\"https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2025\/07\/Stewart-Copeland-at-the-kit.jpg 1330w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2025\/07\/Stewart-Copeland-at-the-kit-600x300.jpg 600w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2025\/07\/Stewart-Copeland-at-the-kit-1024x512.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2025\/07\/Stewart-Copeland-at-the-kit-768x384.jpg 768w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2025\/07\/Stewart-Copeland-at-the-kit-1080x540.jpg 1080w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2025\/07\/Stewart-Copeland-at-the-kit-1280x640.jpg 1280w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2025\/07\/Stewart-Copeland-at-the-kit-980x490.jpg 980w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2025\/07\/Stewart-Copeland-at-the-kit-480x240.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1330px) 100vw, 1330px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-46390\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Creative Commons License by <a href=\"https:\/\/commons.m.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Stewart_Copeland_Atlanta_4.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Acroterion<\/a><\/p><\/div>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=&#8221;Not just The Police drummer\u2026 &#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.17.4&#8243; background_size=&#8221;initial&#8221; background_position=&#8221;top_left&#8221; background_repeat=&#8221;repeat&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;20px||||false|false&#8221; border_width_top=&#8221;2px&#8221; border_color_top=&#8221;#f08000&#8243; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Not_just_The_Police_drummer%E2%80%A6\"><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">Not just The Police drummer\u2026<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:160,&quot;335559739&quot;:80}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>So, let&#8217;s dive into the other work that makes Copeland such a multifaceted musician. <span data-contrast=\"auto\">Over the years, he\u2019s explored film scores, television, opera, and orchestral music. No matter the format, his work carries the same energy and precision that define his drumming.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">After The Police, the 1990s marked a major shift in Stewart Copeland\u2019s career. He turned his focus to film and television, composing scores for a wide range of projects including <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Wall Street<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The Equalizer<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Dead Like Me<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, and the <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Spyro the Dragon<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> video games.\u00a0 <\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">His work on <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Spyro<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, in particular, is playful in its <\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">melody and rhythm, much of which he crafted using a Kurzweil K2500x keyboard and a mix of sample libraries.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>As if film, TV, and game weren&#8217;t enough &#8211; Copeland is also renowned for his orchestral stage works.\u00a0<span data-contrast=\"auto\">His opera <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Holy Blood and Crescent Moon<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> was commissioned by Cleveland Opera, and he\u2019s continued to write for the concert stage. Highlights include <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Tyrant\u2019s Crush<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, a drum set concerto written for the Pittsburgh Symphony, and his original score to <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ<\/span><\/i>.<\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">He\u2019s also brought genres together through projects like <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Off the Score<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, a collaboration that paired classical musicians with rock instrumentation. His ensemble <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Orchestralli<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> took that fusion even further, blending percussive energy with chamber textures. The project earned a Grammy nomination for the track \u201cBirds of Prey\u201d.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">\u00a0<\/div>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=&#8221;Stewart Copeland\u2019s unique style and technique &#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.17.4&#8243; background_size=&#8221;initial&#8221; background_position=&#8221;top_left&#8221; background_repeat=&#8221;repeat&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;20px||||false|false&#8221; border_width_top=&#8221;2px&#8221; border_color_top=&#8221;#f08000&#8243; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Stewart_Copelands_unique_style_and_technique\"><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">Stewart Copeland\u2019s unique style and technique<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:160,&quot;335559739&quot;:80}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">It\u2019s tricky to pinpoint one genre when it comes to Stewart Copeland; he had such a broad range of influences from different cultures. This makes him stand out. He grew up in Egypt, Lebanon, and England, which meant he was surrounded by all kinds of music, including Arabic, African, and Western styles. That mix shaped the way he plays.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">You can hear those influences in the way he blends styles. He pulls from reggae, jazz, Latin, Arabic, and punk rock, but he doesn\u2019t just borrow bits and pieces. He mixes them in ways that go far beyond what you\u2019d expect from a typical rock or pop drummer.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">You&#8217;ll notice Copeland is a massive fan of rhythmic displacement. In a track like &#8220;<\/span>The Bed\u2019s Too Big Without You&#8221;<span data-contrast=\"auto\">, he actually leaves the first beat of the bar silent on purpose. It throws you off just a little, but in a way that draws you in. That kind of phrasing gives his grooves a really fluid and almost conversational feel. It\u2019s not stiff or mechanical. It moves and shifts to keeps things interesting.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">If I had to highlight one thing that made his drumming so unique, I\u2019d have to talk about his hi-hat technique. Instead of sticking to a standard backbeat, Copeland often builds full rhythmic textures using just the hi-hat and bass drum. You can really hear this in songs like &#8220;<\/span>Bring On The Night&#8221; and &#8220;Darkness&#8221;<span data-contrast=\"auto\">, where he creates momentum through subtle changes in articulation and volume.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">On a technical level, Copeland prefers a higher-pitched drum sound. His snare and toms are tuned tighter than usual, and that choice became a defining feature of The Police\u2019s reggae-infused rock. The brighter tone gives his playing extra clarity and punch, helping his intricate rhythms cut through the mix.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Copeland has also mastered the art of using a range of dynamics to add excitement to the pieces. He blends jazz-like articulation into pop structures, using ghost notes, rim clicks, and accented strokes to add detail and depth. His snare work often shifts quickly between light, subtle patterns and strong, driving backbeats. The rest of the kit follows suit. It always feels musical, not mechanical.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">He also sometimes leaves out the downbeat altogether. In &#8220;Spirits in a Material World&#8221;, for instance, you can clearly hear the reggae influence, but you can also hear how the absence of that first beat changes everything. The groove feels different. The momentum shifts. These choices don\u2019t just add flair. They reshape how the rhythm lands and how the song moves.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">This is what makes Copeland\u2019s drumming so distinctive. It\u2019s not just the technical skill. It\u2019s the mix of musical cultures, the sense of structure, and the willingness to do things differently. He doesn\u2019t simply keep time. He plays with it. Bends it. Turns it into something entirely his own.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_46391\" style=\"width: 1340px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-46391\" class=\"wp-image-46391 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2025\/07\/Stewart-Copeland-The-Police.jpg\" alt=\"Stewart Copeland The Police\" width=\"1330\" height=\"665\" srcset=\"https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2025\/07\/Stewart-Copeland-The-Police.jpg 1330w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2025\/07\/Stewart-Copeland-The-Police-600x300.jpg 600w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2025\/07\/Stewart-Copeland-The-Police-1024x512.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2025\/07\/Stewart-Copeland-The-Police-768x384.jpg 768w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2025\/07\/Stewart-Copeland-The-Police-1080x540.jpg 1080w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2025\/07\/Stewart-Copeland-The-Police-1280x640.jpg 1280w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2025\/07\/Stewart-Copeland-The-Police-980x490.jpg 980w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2025\/07\/Stewart-Copeland-The-Police-480x240.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1330px) 100vw, 1330px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-46391\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Creative Commons License by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/penmachine\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Derek K. Miller (1969-2011)<\/a><\/p><\/div>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=&#8221;Inspirations &#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.17.4&#8243; background_size=&#8221;initial&#8221; background_position=&#8221;top_left&#8221; background_repeat=&#8221;repeat&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;20px||||false|false&#8221; border_width_top=&#8221;2px&#8221; border_color_top=&#8221;#f08000&#8243; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Inspirations\"><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">Inspirations<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:160,&quot;335559739&quot;:80}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Stewart Copeland\u2019s drumming was shaped early on by a wide range of influences. In interviews, he\u2019s mentioned Mitch Mitchell, Ginger Baker, Buddy Rich, Ringo Starr and John Bonham as key inspirations. Each one added something different to how he approached music.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Mitchell\u2019s work with Jimi Hendrix had a big impact. It was the energy, the freedom in playing, and the use of toms and jazz-influenced phrasing that Copeland loved; it opened the door to a more expressive style that didn\u2019t stick to typical rock patterns. Ginger Baker left a similar impression. His tom-heavy, almost melodic drumming encouraged Copeland to move around the kit with more fluidity and creativity.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">In terms of control and precision, Buddy Rich was a huge influence. You can hear this inspiration in Copeland&#8217;s uses of dynamics and ghost notes on the snare. There\u2019s a level of articulation that gives his grooves real shape. Then there\u2019s John Bonham, whose power and sense of groove added something different. His influence is clear in the weight and timing of Copeland\u2019s playing.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">You can hear all of this come together in his work with The Police. The mix of reggae and rock, combined with jazz-style phrasing, syncopation, and world rhythms, creates a sound that\u2019s so distinct and difficult to pinpoint.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">\u00a0<\/div>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=&#8221;Copeland\u2019s kit and other equipment &#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.17.4&#8243; background_size=&#8221;initial&#8221; background_position=&#8221;top_left&#8221; background_repeat=&#8221;repeat&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;20px||||false|false&#8221; border_width_top=&#8221;2px&#8221; border_color_top=&#8221;#f08000&#8243; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Copelands_kit_and_other_equipment\"><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">Copeland\u2019s kit and other equipment<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:160,&quot;335559739&quot;:80}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Such a varied discography calls for a vast range of equipment. Copeland&#8217;s gear has allowed him to have such a crazily creative and diverse career, with drum setups that focus on clarity, texture, and dynamic range.<\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Despite being left-handed, Copeland uses a right-handed kit because it&#8217;s more &#8220;convenient&#8221;. One of the best things about his kit is his use of octobans. These small, high-pitched toms sit above the main kit and let him create melodic lines that almost sound like a voice. He also makes regular use of the cowbell. It adds a sharp, percussive edge that cuts through brilliantly.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Copeland has been a long-time fan of Tama drums, especially the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Drums-and-Percussion\/Tama-Imperialstar-22-6pc-Drum-Kit-Hairline-Blue\/5BJ8\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Imperialstar kit<\/span><\/b><\/a>,<span data-contrast=\"auto\"> which he used during the classic Police years. This kit was in a midnight blue finish, also known as \u201cPolice blue sparkle.\u201d He additionally used a Tama Starclassic, which made an appearance during The Police\u2019s reunion tour in 2007. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">If you\u2019re looking to replicate Copeland&#8217;s sound, you can get your own <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Drums-and-Percussion\/Tama-Starclassic-Maple-22-4pc-Shell-Pack-Marine-Shoreline-Movingui-Fade\/6W21\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Tama Starclassic Maple 22&#8243; 4pc Shell Pack<\/span><\/b><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">For his snare, he originally favoured a Pearl 14&#215;5&#8243; Chrome Over Brass snare, before switching to his own <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Drums-and-Percussion\/Tama-Stewart-Copeland-Signature-14-x-5-Snare-Drum\/TE0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">signature Tama snare<\/span><\/b><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> in more recent years. His iconic snare sound was achieved by tuning these snares very high, which gave him extra response and attack.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">For his cymbals, Copeland&#8217;s go-to setup included Paiste, with some standout models, like the 14-inch 2002 Flanger Splash, which has since been discontinued, the 12-inch Signature \u201cRhythmatist\u201d hi-hats, and the 22-inch Blue Bell Ride. Each one is chosen for quick accents and crisp, clear attack. His kit often includes multiple splash cymbals, light flat rides, and signature crashes, all picked for their clarity and fast response. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Drums-and-Percussion\/Paiste-12-Signature-Combo-Crisp-Hi-Hats\/1WT6\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Paiste 12&#8243; Signature Combo Crisp Hi-Hats<\/span><\/b><\/a> <span data-contrast=\"auto\">and the<\/span> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Drums-and-Percussion\/Paiste-2002-16-Crash-Cymbal\/DRW\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Paiste 2002 16&#8221; Crash Cymbal<\/span><\/b><\/a> offer a <span data-contrast=\"auto\">similar sound. And if you&#8217;re really trying to recreate Copeland&#8217;s sound, it&#8217;s a no-brainer that you should use his <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Drums-and-Percussion\/Vater-Stewart-Copeland-Standard-Signature-Drumsticks\/AMP\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">signature Vater drumsticks<\/a><\/strong>! <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">In the studio, Copeland uses lots of electronic and sampling gear. For his <em>Spyro the Dragon<\/em> soundtrack, he used a Kurzweil K2500x keyboard loaded with orchestral and contemporary ROMs, along with Spectrasonics libraries like Distorted Reality. He sequenced and arranged using Digital Performer, and incorporated AKAI sample CDs to build detailed soundscapes. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">On The Police\u2019s <em>Ghost in the Machine<\/em>, he layered textures using a Roland RS 505 string synthesizer.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">When it comes to scoring for orchestra and film, Copeland prepares the notation for musicians in <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Recording-and-Computers\/Sibelius-Ultimate-1-Year-Subscription\/5XJS\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Avid Sibelius<\/span><\/b><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">. He admits it\u2019s not ideal for composing directly, but it\u2019s his go-to tool for producing clear, readable scores.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><div id=\"attachment_46392\" style=\"width: 1340px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-46392\" class=\"wp-image-46392 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2025\/07\/Stewart-Copeland-on-stage.jpg\" alt=\"Stewart Copeland on stage\" width=\"1330\" height=\"665\" srcset=\"https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2025\/07\/Stewart-Copeland-on-stage.jpg 1330w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2025\/07\/Stewart-Copeland-on-stage-600x300.jpg 600w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2025\/07\/Stewart-Copeland-on-stage-1024x512.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2025\/07\/Stewart-Copeland-on-stage-768x384.jpg 768w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2025\/07\/Stewart-Copeland-on-stage-1080x540.jpg 1080w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2025\/07\/Stewart-Copeland-on-stage-1280x640.jpg 1280w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2025\/07\/Stewart-Copeland-on-stage-980x490.jpg 980w, https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2025\/07\/Stewart-Copeland-on-stage-480x240.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1330px) 100vw, 1330px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-46392\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Creative Commons License by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/16833954@N00\/1003595949\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Dalton<\/a><\/p><\/div>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url=&#8221;https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/drum-kits.html&#8221; url_new_window=&#8221;on&#8221; button_text=&#8221;SHOP DRUMS&#8221; button_alignment=&#8221;center&#8221; admin_label=&#8221;NEW CTA Button&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.17.4&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; custom_button=&#8221;on&#8221; button_text_size=&#8221;14px&#8221; button_text_color=&#8221;#FFFFFF&#8221; button_bg_color=&#8221;#0e95cf&#8221; button_border_width=&#8221;0px&#8221; button_border_color=&#8221;#0e95cf&#8221; button_font=&#8221;Arial|700|||||||&#8221; button_icon=&#8221;&#x35;||divi||400&#8243; button_icon_color=&#8221;#FFFFFF&#8221; custom_margin=&#8221;||||false|false&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;10px|30px||30px|false|false&#8221; box_shadow_style=&#8221;preset6&#8243; box_shadow_blur=&#8221;2px&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][\/et_pb_button][et_pb_text admin_label=&#8221;Legacy and influence &#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.17.4&#8243; background_size=&#8221;initial&#8221; background_position=&#8221;top_left&#8221; background_repeat=&#8221;repeat&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;20px||||false|false&#8221; border_width_top=&#8221;2px&#8221; border_color_top=&#8221;#f08000&#8243; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Legacy_and_influence\"><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">Legacy and influence\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:160,&quot;335559739&quot;:80}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">As a drummer, Stewart Copeland helped reshape rock music by blending influences from reggae, Arabic music, jazz, and punk. Rather than sticking to standard grooves, he created rhythms that felt fresh, unpredictable, and distinctly his own. His style was both sophisticated and easy to connect with.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Copeland\u2019s use of syncopation and melodic toms brought a new sense of musicality to the drum kit. He proved that drummers didn\u2019t have to stay in the background. They could help shape the song, act as composers, and become a central voice in the music. With The Police, he introduced global grooves into a rock setting, creating a sound that became instantly recognisable.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">His influence is easy to spot. Drummers like Carter Beauford, Taylor Hawkins, Adrian Young, and Matt Cameron have all cited Copeland as a key inspiration. You can hear it in their phrasing and precision at the kit and their willingness to explore different styles.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Many modern drummers credit him with changing how they see the instrument. He&#8217;s pushed musicians to think more musically and to develop their own voice rather than follow familiar patterns.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">In essence, Copeland didn\u2019t just innovate behind the kit; he redefined the role of the drummer in modern music.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">\u00a0<\/div>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=&#8221;FAQs &#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.17.4&#8243; background_size=&#8221;initial&#8221; background_position=&#8221;top_left&#8221; background_repeat=&#8221;repeat&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;20px||||false|false&#8221; border_width_top=&#8221;2px&#8221; border_color_top=&#8221;#f08000&#8243; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"FAQs\"><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">FAQs<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:160,&quot;335559739&quot;:80}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_did_Stewart_Copeland_meet_Sting\"><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">How did Stewart Copeland meet Sting?<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:80,&quot;335559739&quot;:40}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Stewart Copeland first met Sting on 25th September 1976, when Sting was performing with his band Last Exit in Newcastle. After a Curved Air tour stop featuring Copeland, the two exchanged numbers. A few months later, in January 1977, Sting moved to London. On the very day he arrived, they jammed together and began their collaboration.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_good_was_The_Police_drummer\"><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">How good was The Police drummer?<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:80,&quot;335559739&quot;:40}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Stewart Copeland is widely recognised as one of the most distinctive and influential drummers in rock. Known for his unique style and inventive approach, he has earned critical acclaim throughout his career. Rolling Stone has ranked him among the top drummers of all time, and his contributions have been honoured with inductions into multiple Halls of Fame.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_unique_about_Stewart_Copelands_drumming\"><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">What is unique about Stewart Copeland&#8217;s drumming?<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:80,&quot;335559739&quot;:40}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">What makes Stewart Copeland\u2019s drumming unique is the way he blends reggae, jazz, and rock into a sound that feels both sharp and fluid. He\u2019s known for using octobans and a distinctive splash cymbal he helped design. Adding to that, he plays left-handed on a right-handed kit, which gives his rhythms an extra layer of movement and complexity.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=&#8221;Final thoughts&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.17.4&#8243; background_size=&#8221;initial&#8221; background_position=&#8221;top_left&#8221; background_repeat=&#8221;repeat&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;20px||||false|false&#8221; border_width_top=&#8221;2px&#8221; border_color_top=&#8221;#f08000&#8243; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Final_thoughts\"><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">Final thoughts\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:160,&quot;335559739&quot;:80}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Stewart Copeland\u2019s career has inspired generations of musicians with his unique drumming style and clever approach to songwriting. He\u2019s more than just <strong>T<\/strong><\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">he Police drummer<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">. He\u2019s widely regarded as one of the greats in modern music.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">We\u2019ve explored how his gear choices, from Tama kits to splash-heavy cymbal setups, helped shape his punchy and syncopated sound. There\u2019s a lot of variety in how he achieved that signature feel, so take what resonates with you. Whether it\u2019s his technique, his setup, or a mix of both, there\u2019s something in his approach that can bring new energy to your own playing.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=&#8221;1_2,1_2&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.17.4&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_column type=&#8221;1_2&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.17.4&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_button button_url=&#8221;https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/drum-kits.html&#8221; url_new_window=&#8221;on&#8221; button_text=&#8221;SHOP DRUMS&#8221; button_alignment=&#8221;center&#8221; admin_label=&#8221;NEW CTA Button&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.17.4&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; custom_button=&#8221;on&#8221; button_text_size=&#8221;14px&#8221; button_text_color=&#8221;#FFFFFF&#8221; button_bg_color=&#8221;#0e95cf&#8221; button_border_width=&#8221;0px&#8221; button_border_color=&#8221;#0e95cf&#8221; button_font=&#8221;Arial|700|||||||&#8221; button_icon=&#8221;&#x35;||divi||400&#8243; button_icon_color=&#8221;#FFFFFF&#8221; custom_margin=&#8221;||||false|false&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;10px|30px||30px|false|false&#8221; box_shadow_style=&#8221;preset6&#8243; box_shadow_blur=&#8221;2px&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=&#8221;1_2&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.17.4&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_button button_url=&#8221;https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/category\/drums\/drum-guides\/&#8221; url_new_window=&#8221;on&#8221; button_text=&#8221;READ MORE DRUM GUIDES&#8221; button_alignment=&#8221;center&#8221; admin_label=&#8221;NEW CTA Button&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.17.4&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; custom_button=&#8221;on&#8221; button_text_size=&#8221;14px&#8221; button_text_color=&#8221;#FFFFFF&#8221; button_bg_color=&#8221;#0e95cf&#8221; button_border_width=&#8221;0px&#8221; button_border_color=&#8221;#0e95cf&#8221; button_font=&#8221;Arial|700|||||||&#8221; button_icon=&#8221;&#x35;||divi||400&#8243; button_icon_color=&#8221;#FFFFFF&#8221; custom_margin=&#8221;||||false|false&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;10px|30px||30px|false|false&#8221; box_shadow_style=&#8221;preset6&#8243; box_shadow_blur=&#8221;2px&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>In this article, we\u2019re taking a closer look at The Police drummer. We\u2019ll explore his playing style, who has inspired him, and the tools he used to craft his sound.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":62,"featured_media":46389,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"<p><span style=\"color: #999999;\">Featured image: Creative Commons License by <a title=\"User:Acroterion\" href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Stewart_Copeland_Atlanta_1.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Acroterion<\/a><\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">One of the standout bands of the late \u201970s and early \u201980s was The Police. They were known for their distinctive approach to rock and new wave, with every song blending influences from other genres to create a sound that was uniquely theirs. A big part of their groove and that fantastic mix of influences came from drummer Stewart Copeland.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">In this article, we\u2019re taking a closer look at <strong>T<\/strong><\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">he Police drummer<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">. We\u2019ll explore his playing style, who has inspired him, and the tools he used to craft his sound. His solo projects, along with his work in film and video games, also reveal a lot about his creative range. From his sharp hi-hat technique to the gear he trusted most, we\u2019ll break down how he built such a punchy and unmistakable presence behind the kit.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":160,\"335559739\":80}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><hr \/><h3><span data-contrast=\"none\">Steward Copeland: a brief biography<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":160,\"335559739\":80}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Stewart Copeland\u2019s drumming career began in the mid-1970s with the progressive rock band Curved Air, but it was The Police that brought him international recognition. In 1977, Copeland set out to form a new band that captured the raw energy of punk with a tight three-piece setup. He started with guitarist Henry Padovani and soon added bassist and vocalist Sting. The Police quickly took shape.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Copeland was central to the band\u2019s early direction. He wrote many of their first songs, including their debut single \u201cFall Out\u201d and its B-side \u201cNothing Achieving.\u201d And even as Sting became the main songwriter, Copeland had a say over the arrangements and, of course, the drum parts.<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">By the late 1970s and early 1980s, The Police had become one of the biggest bands in the world. Their 1979 album <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Reggatta de Blanc<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> won a Grammy for Best Rock Instrumental Performance. Songs like \u201cRoxanne,\u201d \u201cMessage In A Bottle,\u201d \u201cEvery Little Thing She Does Is Magic\u201d, and \u201cEvery Breath You Take\u201d showed how easily Copeland moved between styles. <\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">He blended punk, reggae and rock with precision and energy, helping to define the band\u2019s sound.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Beyond The Police, Copeland has a great career in film, television, and video game music, with credits including <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Dead Like Me<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> and the <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Spyro the Dragon<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> series. Still, it\u2019s his work with The Police that he's the most famous for.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>[caption id=\"attachment_46390\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"1330\"]<img class=\"wp-image-46390 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2025\/07\/Stewart-Copeland-at-the-kit.jpg\" alt=\"Stewart Copeland at the kit\" width=\"1330\" height=\"665\" \/> Creative Commons License by <a href=\"https:\/\/commons.m.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Stewart_Copeland_Atlanta_4.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Acroterion<\/a>[\/caption]<hr \/><h3><span data-contrast=\"none\">Not just The Police drummer\u2026<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":160,\"335559739\":80}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3><p>So, let's dive into the other work that makes Copeland such a multifaceted musician. <span data-contrast=\"auto\">Over the years, he\u2019s explored film scores, television, opera, and orchestral music. No matter the format, his work carries the same energy and precision that define his drumming.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">After The Police, the 1990s marked a major shift in Stewart Copeland\u2019s career. He turned his focus to film and television, composing scores for a wide range of projects including <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Wall Street<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The Equalizer<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Dead Like Me<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, and the <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Spyro the Dragon<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> video games.\u00a0 <\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">His work on <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Spyro<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, in particular, is playful in its <\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">melody and rhythm, much of which he crafted using a Kurzweil K2500x keyboard and a mix of sample libraries.<\/span><\/p><p>As if film, TV, and game weren't enough - Copeland is also renowned for his orchestral stage works.\u00a0<span data-contrast=\"auto\">His opera <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Holy Blood and Crescent Moon<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> was commissioned by Cleveland Opera, and he\u2019s continued to write for the concert stage. Highlights include <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Tyrant\u2019s Crush<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, a drum set concerto written for the Pittsburgh Symphony, and his original score to <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ<\/span><\/i>.<\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">He\u2019s also brought genres together through projects like <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Off the Score<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, a collaboration that paired classical musicians with rock instrumentation. His ensemble <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Orchestralli<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> took that fusion even further, blending percussive energy with chamber textures. The project earned a Grammy nomination for the track \u201cBirds of Prey\u201d.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><hr \/><h3><span data-contrast=\"none\">Steward Copeland\u2019s unique style and technique<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":160,\"335559739\":80}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">It\u2019s tricky to pinpoint one genre when it comes to Stewart Copeland; he had such a broad range of influences from different cultures. This makes him stand out. He grew up in Egypt, Lebanon, and England, which meant he was surrounded by all kinds of music, including Arabic, African, and Western styles. That mix shaped the way he plays.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">You can hear those influences in the way he blends styles. He pulls from reggae, jazz, Latin, Arabic, and punk rock, but he doesn\u2019t just borrow bits and pieces. He mixes them in ways that go far beyond what you\u2019d expect from a typical rock or pop drummer.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">You'll notice Copeland is a massive fan of rhythmic displacement. In a track like \"<\/span>The Bed\u2019s Too Big Without You\"<span data-contrast=\"auto\">, he actually leaves the first beat of the bar silent on purpose. It throws you off just a little, but in a way that draws you in. That kind of phrasing gives his grooves a really fluid and almost conversational feel. It\u2019s not stiff or mechanical. It moves and shifts in a way that keeps things interesting.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">If I had to highlight one thing that made his drumming so unique, I\u2019d have to talk about his hi-hat technique. Instead of sticking to a standard backbeat, Copeland often builds full rhythmic textures using just the hi-hat and bass drum. You can really hear this in songs like \"<\/span>Bring On The Night\" and \"Darkness\"<span data-contrast=\"auto\">, where he creates momentum through subtle changes in articulation and volume.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">On a technical level, Copeland prefers a higher-pitched drum sound. His snare and toms are tuned tighter than usual, and that choice became a defining feature of The Police\u2019s reggae-infused rock. The brighter tone gives his playing extra clarity and punch, helping his intricate rhythms cut through the mix.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Copeland has also mastered the art of using a range of dynamics to add excitement to the pieces. He blends jazz-like articulation into pop structures, using ghost notes, rim clicks, and accented strokes to add detail and depth. His snare work often shifts quickly between light, subtle patterns and strong, driving backbeats. The rest of the kit follows suit. It always feels musical, not mechanical.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">He also sometimes leaves out the downbeat altogether. In \"Spirits in a Material World\", for instance, you can clearly hear the reggae influence, but you can also hear how the absence of that first beat changes everything. The groove feels different. The momentum shifts. These choices don\u2019t just add flair. They reshape how the rhythm lands and how the song moves.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">This is what makes Copeland\u2019s drumming so distinctive. It\u2019s not just the technical skill. It\u2019s the mix of musical cultures, the sense of structure, and the willingness to do things differently. He doesn\u2019t simply keep time. He plays with it. Bends it. Turns it into something entirely his own.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>[caption id=\"attachment_46391\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"1330\"]<img class=\"wp-image-46391 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2025\/07\/Stewart-Copeland-The-Police.jpg\" alt=\"Stewart Copeland The Police\" width=\"1330\" height=\"665\" \/> Creative Commons License by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/penmachine\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Derek K. Miller (1969-2011)<\/a>[\/caption]<hr \/><h3><span data-contrast=\"none\">Inspirations<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":160,\"335559739\":80}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Stewart Copeland\u2019s drumming was shaped early on by a wide range of influences. In interviews, he\u2019s mentioned Mitch Mitchell, Ginger Baker, Buddy Rich, Ringo Starr and John Bonham as key inspirations. Each one added something different to how he approached music.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Mitchell\u2019s work with Jimi Hendrix had a big impact. It was the energy, the freedom in playing, and the use of toms and jazz-influenced phrasing that Copeland loved; it opened the door to a more expressive style that didn\u2019t stick to typical rock patterns. Ginger Baker left a similar impression. His tom-heavy, almost melodic drumming encouraged Copeland to move around the kit with more fluidity and creativity.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">In terms of control and precision, Buddy Rich was a huge influence. You can hear how he inspired Copeland in Copeland's uses of dynamics and ghost notes on the snare. There\u2019s a level of articulation that gives his grooves real shape. Then there\u2019s John Bonham, whose power and sense of groove added something different. His influence is clear in the weight and timing of Copeland\u2019s playing.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">You can hear all of this come together in his work with The Police. The mix of reggae and rock, combined with jazz-style phrasing, syncopation, and world rhythms, creates a sound that\u2019s so distinct and difficult to pinpoint.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><hr \/><h3><span data-contrast=\"none\">Copeland\u2019s kit and other equipment<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":160,\"335559739\":80}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3><p>Such a varied discography calls for a vast range of equipment. Copeland's gear has allowed him to have such a crazily creative and diverse career, with drum setups that focus on clarity, texture, and dynamic range.<\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Despite being left-handed, Copeland uses a right-handed kit because it's more \"convenient\". One of the best things about his kit is his use of octobans. These small, high-pitched toms sit above the main kit and let him create melodic lines that almost sound like a voice. He also makes regular use of the cowbell. It adds a sharp, percussive edge that cuts through brilliantly.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Copeland has been a long-time fan of Tama drums, especially the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Drums-and-Percussion\/Tama-Imperialstar-22-6pc-Drum-Kit-Hairline-Blue\/5BJ8\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Imperialstar kit<\/span><\/b><\/a>,<span data-contrast=\"auto\"> which he used during the classic Police years. This kit was in a midnight blue finish, also known as \u201cPolice blue sparkle.\u201d He additionally used a Tama Starclassic, which made an appearance during The Police\u2019s reunion tour in 2007. <\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">If you\u2019re looking to replicate Copeland's sound, you can get your own <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Drums-and-Percussion\/Tama-Starclassic-Maple-22-4pc-Shell-Pack-Marine-Shoreline-Movingui-Fade\/6W21\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Tama Starclassic Maple 22\" 4pc Shell Pack<\/span><\/b><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">For his snare, he originally favoured a Pearl 14x5\" Chrome Over Brass snare, before switching to his own <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Drums-and-Percussion\/Tama-Stewart-Copeland-Signature-14-x-5-Snare-Drum\/TE0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">signature Tama snare<\/span><\/b><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> in more recent years. His iconic snare sound was achieved by tuning these snares very high, which gave him extra response and attack.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">For his cymbals, Copeland's go-to setup included Paiste, with some standout models, like the 14-inch 2002 Flanger Splash, which has since been discontinued, the 12-inch Signature \u201cRhythmatist\u201d hi-hats, and the 22-inch Blue Bell Ride. Each one is chosen for quick accents and crisp, clear attack. His kit often includes multiple splash cymbals, light flat rides, and signature crashes, all picked for their clarity and fast response. <\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Drums-and-Percussion\/Paiste-12-Signature-Combo-Crisp-Hi-Hats\/1WT6\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Paiste 12\" Signature Combo Crisp Hi-Hats<\/span><\/b><\/a> <span data-contrast=\"auto\">and the<\/span> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Drums-and-Percussion\/Paiste-2002-16-Crash-Cymbal\/DRW\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Paiste 2002 16'' Crash Cymbal<\/span><\/b><\/a> offer a <span data-contrast=\"auto\">similar sound. And if you're really trying to recreate Copeland's sound, it's a no-brainer that you should use his <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Drums-and-Percussion\/Vater-Stewart-Copeland-Standard-Signature-Drumsticks\/AMP\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">signature Vater drumsticks<\/a><\/strong>! <\/span>\u00a0<\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">In the studio, Copeland uses lots of electronic and sampling gear. For his <em>Spyro the Dragon<\/em> soundtrack, he used a Kurzweil K2500x keyboard loaded with orchestral and contemporary ROMs, along with Spectrasonics libraries like Distorted Reality. He sequenced and arranged using Digital Performer, and incorporated AKAI sample CDs to build detailed soundscapes. <\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">On The Police\u2019s <em>Ghost in the Machine<\/em>, he layered textures using a Roland RS 505 string synthesizer.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">When it comes to scoring for orchestra and film, Copeland prepares the notation for musicians in <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Recording-and-Computers\/Sibelius-Ultimate-1-Year-Subscription\/5XJS\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Avid Sibelius<\/span><\/b><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">. He admits it\u2019s not ideal for composing directly, but it\u2019s his go-to tool for producing clear, readable scores.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>[caption id=\"attachment_46392\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"1330\"]<img class=\"wp-image-46392 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2025\/07\/Stewart-Copeland-on-stage.jpg\" alt=\"Stewart Copeland on stage\" width=\"1330\" height=\"665\" \/> Creative Commons License by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/16833954@N00\/1003595949\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Dalton<\/a>[\/caption]<hr \/><h3><span data-contrast=\"none\">Legacy and influence\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":160,\"335559739\":80}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">As a drummer, Stewart Copeland helped reshape rock music by blending influences from reggae, Arabic music, jazz, and punk. Rather than sticking to standard grooves, he created rhythms that felt fresh, unpredictable, and distinctly his own. His style was both sophisticated and easy to connect with.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Copeland\u2019s use of syncopation and melodic toms brought a new sense of musicality to the drum kit. He proved that drummers didn\u2019t have to stay in the background. They could help shape the song, act as composers, and become a central voice in the music. With The Police, he introduced global grooves into a rock setting, creating a sound that became instantly recognisable.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">His influence is easy to spot. Drummers like Carter Beauford, Taylor Hawkins, Adrian Young, and Matt Cameron have all cited Copeland as a key inspiration. You can hear it in their phrasing and precision at the kit and their willingness to explore different styles.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Many modern drummers credit him with changing how they see the instrument. He's pushed musicians to think more musically and to develop their own voice rather than follow familiar patterns.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">In essence, Copeland didn\u2019t just innovate behind the kit; he redefined the role of the drummer in modern music.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><hr \/><h3><span data-contrast=\"none\">FAQs<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":160,\"335559739\":80}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3><h4><span data-contrast=\"none\">How did Stewart Copeland meet Sting?<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":80,\"335559739\":40}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h4><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Stewart Copeland first met Sting on 25th September 1976, when Sting was performing with his band Last Exit in Newcastle. After a Curved Air tour stop featuring Copeland, the two exchanged numbers. A few months later, in January 1977, Sting moved to London. On the very day he arrived, they jammed together and began their collaboration.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><hr \/><h4><span data-contrast=\"none\">How good was The Police drummer?<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":80,\"335559739\":40}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h4><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Stewart Copeland is widely recognised as one of the most distinctive and influential drummers in rock. Known for his unique style and inventive approach, he has earned critical acclaim throughout his career. Rolling Stone has ranked him among the top drummers of all time, and his contributions have been honoured with inductions into multiple Halls of Fame.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><hr \/><h4><span data-contrast=\"none\">What is unique about Stewart Copeland's drumming?<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":80,\"335559739\":40}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h4><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">What makes Stewart Copeland\u2019s drumming unique is the way he blends reggae, jazz, and rock into a sound that feels both sharp and fluid. He\u2019s known for using octobans and a distinctive splash cymbal he helped design. Adding to that, he plays left-handed on a right-handed kit, which gives his rhythms an extra layer of movement and complexity.<\/span><\/p><hr \/><h3><span data-contrast=\"none\">Final thoughts\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":160,\"335559739\":80}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Stewart Copeland\u2019s career has inspired generations of musicians with his unique drumming style and clever approach to songwriting. He\u2019s more than just <strong>T<\/strong><\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">he Police drummer<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">. He\u2019s widely regarded as one of the greats in modern music.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">We\u2019ve explored how his gear choices, from Tama kits to splash-heavy cymbal setups, helped shape his punchy and syncopated sound. There\u2019s a lot of variety in how he achieved that signature feel, so take what resonates with you. Whether it\u2019s his technique, his setup, or a mix of both, there\u2019s something in his approach that can bring new energy to your own playing.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>","_et_gb_content_width":"","_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[144,241],"tags":[165,290],"class_list":["post-46368","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-drums","category-drum-guides","tag-drums","tag-guide"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.8 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Stewart Copeland: The Tools Behind The Police Drummer&#039;s Sound<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"In this article, we\u2019re taking a closer look at The Police drummer. We\u2019ll explore his playing style, influences, and the tools he used.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/stewart-copeland-the-police-drummer\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Stewart Copeland: The Tools Behind The Police Drummer&#039;s Sound\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"In this article, we\u2019re taking a closer look at The Police drummer. 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