Sting – Russians

1) Lyrics

In Europe and America, there's a growing feeling of hysteria
Conditioned to respond to all the threats
In the rhetorical speeches of the Soviets
Mr. Krushchev said we will bury you
I don't subscribe to this point of view
It would be such an ignorant thing to do
If the Russians love their children too

How can I save my little boy from Oppenheimer's deadly toy
There is no monopoly in common sense
On either side of the political fence
We share the same biology
Regardless of ideology
Believe me when I say to you
I hope the Russians love their children too

There is no historical precedent
To put the words in the mouth of the President
There's no such thing as a winnable war
It's a lie that we don't believe anymore
Mr. Reagan says we will protect you
I don't subscribe to this point of view
Believe me when I say to you
I hope the Russians love their children too

We share the same biology
Regardless of ideology
What might save us, me, and you
Is if the Russians love their children too.

2) Introduction

Gordon Sumner, also known as Sting is a British musician, singer, songwriter and actor. He released his single "Russians", from his debut solo album. The Dream of the Blue Turtles, on the 1st of November 1985. "Russians" denounces the singer's concern towards the world in 1985 as the tension between the United States and Russia grows. This song is the Occidental point of view toward the Cold War in the 1980's. Sting fears the threat of a nuclear war between these two countries. Indeed, both countries are in possession of the nuclear arm. The aim of his song is to write a speech to defend peace.

3) Song analysis

First of all, we can notice a very dramatic melody. This melody was inspired by Russian composer Sergei Prokofiev’s romance melody from the Lieutenant Kije, which was written in 1933 for a movie soundtrack. By using Prokofiev’s melody, Sting wanted to pay tribute to this