Name: Nadia Suric

Username: Byrd

Location: Melbourne, Australia.

Been a fan since: The very first time I heard 'Fall Out/Nothing Achieving' by The Police way back when I was probably 13 or 14 years old. I remember my sister spinning this record that she ordered through the official The Police fan club way back in 1979. The record was distributed through Illegal Records, our copy is C IL 0017 which means within our possession we have the 17th pressing. The black and lime checkered 7 inch single cover is a stand out, particularly Henry Padovani's unusual grimace on the front cover. It has been noted that Henry Padovani had major dental work a day prior to this infamous photo shoot. From the moment I heard Sting's voice I was stung!

Favourite Sting song: 'Russians' - Beautifully emotive and haunting. Sting's voice alone is an instrument all on its own. I felt the fear that was there at the time. The depth of the lyrics is incredibly intense, Sting's vocals differs between sadness and madness. Sadly, this masterpiece still resonates with the current political environment over 40 years later. The message is one of faith and kindness for all of us. There will always be hope even when there seems to be no hope.

Favourite Police song: 'The Bed's Too Big Without You' - Absolutely love this song. Sting's rolling bass line is a killer! Stewart Copeland's ricochet drumming is strikingly extraordinary. Stewart drums on this particular track as if his own life literally depends on it. Andy Summers scratching that guitar sends it to another stratosphere! Without a doubt, outstanding musicianship from all three members of the band. They all shine here!

Favourite Sting album: 'The Dream Of The Blue Turtles' - When it first came out in 1985, the magical fusion of jazz was and still is affecting and exciting, I was smitten. This is an incredibly polished record by this masterful musician. I still play "The Dream Of The Blues Turtles" to this very day. This album still sounds incredibly new and just produced.

Favourite Police album: 'Reggatta de Blanc' - There are so many stand out tracks on this album, with the opening and commanding track of "Message In A Bottle" to the deeper and profound "Bring On The Night". Sting's constricted vocals along with the echoing guitars epitomises one man's desire to come to the end of his time. The entire album takes you on a wonderful and unforgettable journey.

Most memorable concert: Symphonicity January 2011 - Sidney Myer Music Bowl - Melbourne Australia. Accompanied with The Melbourne Symphony Orchestra. Every single song that Sting sang breathed new life and meaning, the arrangements just blew me away. Sting - The Maestro just keeps on reinventing himself. Thanks to sting.com presale, I along with my two sisters are eternally grateful of having been seated 2nd row in the orchestra pit. An illustrious exceptional mesmerising concert. Not forgetting, Sting My Songs World Tour 23rd of February 2023 at Rod Laver Arena - Melbourne Australia. After nearly 8 years it was well worth the wait. The concert was truly remarkable, it was as if I was reuniting with an old friend, welcoming Sting back on stage, generously sharing his iconic songs with all of us with his expansive encyclopaedic career. Incredibly honoured.

Other favourite bands: Nick Cave, David Bowie, Iggy Pop, The Comsat Angels, The Smiths, PJ Harvey.

In your own words: Sting would have to be one of the hardest working musicians I know. The Maestro just keeps rediscovering and redesigning himself, always evolving, his unpredictability constantly surprising us all. I have admired his music for decades. Sting's music has been of great comfort in my life as well as my entire family. My admiration and respect for this musician is of the highest level, this man is truly inspiring. As a musician Sting is eclectic not only as an instrumentalist but as a composer as well. Sting has touched so many people from all walks of life. Not only a gentle man but a true gentleman as well. A world of thanks to you Sir for continuing to bring so much joy, inspiration and happiness in all our lives.