Sting: My Songs Tour: 2021 - 2023

Sting shows support for Ukraine and sometimes lowers his voice...

His worn-out bass guitar seems to be the only thing about Sting (70) that has aged. On Friday, he demonstrated his musical flexibility and support for Ukraine at the sold-out Afas Live.

A world star strolls onto the stage completely casually, an acoustic guitar tucked under his arm. "We're starting off in an unusual way," he says modestly to the sold-out Afas Live, pointing to two cellists seated behind him. "These are musicians from Ukraine. They're here to show solidarity with their country."

Without any embellishment, singer Sting launches into a cerebral version of "Russians," the 1985 global hit that made the core threat of the Cold War palpable ("How can I save my little boy from Oppenheimer's deadly toy?"). After the final notes, two peace signs appear, followed by the lyrics: "Free Ukraine."

He doesn't want to waste any more words on the war, although the order of The Police's subsequent hits and a nearly forty-year solo career is telling: after "Message in a Bottle" ("I'll send an S.O.S. to the world") comes "If You Love Somebody Set Them Free."

The only thing that has aged about Sting (70) is his battered bass guitar. Beneath the short sleeves of his tight blue shirt, muscles bulge. His strategically cropped commando haircut reveals no sign of his blond hair turning gray. Okay, he does the highest squeaks on ‘So Lonely’ and ‘Roxanne’ an octave lower, but he sings and basses with incredible ease and musical flexibility.

And he does what he wants. "Time for new songs," he says after the first volley of hits. "That's part of the deal. I've suffered for my art, now it's your turn."

With a wireless headset, he strolls leisurely across the stage, sipping tea in between. All that's missing is a comfortable Chesterfield sofa to sink into. His brilliance lies in the casual way he gives thousands of people the feeling for two hours that they're watching a private jam session with friends and family: a daughter on backing vocals, his youngest son on drums, his eldest as the opening act and guest musician.

The advantage: it's a lot more convivial than back in the day with The Police, who fought for every inch and decibel on and off the stage. The disadvantage: in such a cozy, concert-style setting, the sparks don't really fly.

(c) NRC