Sting Says That Bands Are For Teenagers And That No 'Grown Man' Should Be In One

British singer, songwriter and former The Police member Sting has revealed some interesting comments surrounding 'grown men' being in bands, via an interview with MOJO Magazine.

He told the magazine, "I don't think any grown man can be in a band actually.

"A band is a teenage gang. Who wants to be in a teenage gang when you're knocking 70? It doesn't allow you to evolve.

"You have to obey the rules and the gestalt of the band. As much as I love the Stones and AC/DC, it's hard to see growth in their music.

"For me, the band was merely a vehicle for the songs and not the other way round."

Sting was a member of The Police between the age of 26 and 32, before releasing his extremely well-received solo debut album The Dream Of The Blue Turtles. 

He reflects gratefully on the success of the album, stating that if his debut record didn't perform as well, he worried that he may have returned to the band. 

"Both Andy and Stewart had made albums without me so it was my right too," he said.

"I recruited a band from the jazz world and I was lucky it was a hit. I have no idea what would have happened if it hadn't been a hit.

"Would I have gone back to the band and eaten humble pie? I hope not."

Within the interview, he also reflected on the band's brief reunion for their Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame induction and also in 2007 for their reunion tour. 

He stated that it "was hugely successful but I wouldn't do it again."

"That would be a bridge too far," he noted.

On regretting the tour or not, he stated, "No, absolutely not. I mean, it was hard because the power struggles were still very apparent but we got through it and people loved it, they really did...

"We always communicate on birthdays. We have separate lives but it's very cordial. I'm very grateful for those guys and their immense talent, and their patience with me. I love them."