The Police - Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic - 1981
The Police - Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic - 1981
The Police - Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic - 1981
Introduction
"Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic" is a song by the British rock band The Police, released as a single in 1981. It was taken from their fourth studio album, Ghost in the Machine. The song, written by the band's lead vocalist and bassist Sting, became one of The Police's biggest hits, reaching the top of the charts in various countries around the world.
The song is known for its upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and the innovative use of synthesizers, which was somewhat of a departure from the band's usual rock sound. It showcases the band's versatility and Sting's songwriting prowess, blending pop, rock, and reggae influences.
Background and Writing
Sting wrote "Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic" in 1976, several years before The Police were formed. However, it wasn't until the band started working on Ghost in the Machine that they recorded the song. The inclusion of a piano part, played by Jean Roussel, added a new dimension to The Police's sound, which was predominantly guitar-driven.
Music Video
The music video for "Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic" features the band performing the song in a studio, interspersed with scenes of them in Montserrat, where they recorded part of the album. The lighthearted and whimsical nature of the video complements the song's upbeat feel.
Impact and Legacy
"Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic" remains one of The Police's most beloved tracks. It showcases the band's ability to evolve their sound while still maintaining their signature style. The song's success helped to cement The Police's status as one of the most popular and influential bands of the early 1980s.
Interactive Tasks
Quiz: Questions on the song
What year was "Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic" released? (1981) (!1978) (!1983) (!1976)
Who wrote "Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic"? (Sting) (!Andy Summers) (!Stewart Copeland) (!Jean Roussel)
From which album is "Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic"? (Ghost in the Machine) (!Outlandos d'Amour) (!Zenyatta Mondatta) (!Reggatta de Blanc)
What musical elements distinguish "Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic" from most other Police songs? (Use of synthesizers and piano) (!Heavy guitar riffs) (!Extended drum solos) (!Acapella sections)
Where was part of the album recorded, as seen in the music video? (Montserrat) (!London) (!New York City) (!Jamaica)
Quiz: Questions on the Performer
What is the name of the lead vocalist and bassist of The Police? (Sting) (!Bono) (!Mick Jagger) (!Freddie Mercury)
How many studio albums did The Police release? (5) (!3) (!7) (!4)
In what year was The Police formed? (1977) (!1975) (!1980) (!1979)
Which of the following genres best describes The Police's music? (Rock/Reggae fusion) (!Heavy Metal) (!Punk Rock) (!Hip Hop)
Which member of The Police was known for his distinctive guitar playing? (Andy Summers) (!Sting) (!Stewart Copeland) (!Jean Roussel)
Quiz: Questions on the lyrics
What does the singer claim in the song's chorus? (Every little thing she does is magic) (!Every move she makes is tragic) (!Every word she says is music) (!Every step she takes is chaotic)
How does the singer feel about expressing his feelings to the girl? (He's too shy to say it) (!He's indifferent) (!He's overly confident) (!He regrets it)
What is the effect of the girl's actions on the singer? (They fill him with magic) (!They leave him confused) (!They make him angry) (!They bore him)
What is a recurring theme in the song's lyrics? (Unrequited love) (!Revenge) (!Happiness in solitude) (!The joy of discovery)
What does the singer wish to convey to the girl? (His feelings are genuine) (!His desire for freedom) (!His indifference towards her) (!His longing for the past)
Memory
| Sting | Lead vocalist and bassist |
| Ghost in the Machine | Album |
| 1981 | Release year |
| Montserrat | Recording location |
| Synthesizers and piano | Musical elements |
Open Tasks
Easy
- Research The Police: Look up the history of The Police and write a short summary.
- Create a Playlist: Create a playlist of The Police songs that you feel best represent their sound.
- Design an Album Cover: Design your own album cover for "Ghost in the Machine."
Standard
- Analyze Lyrics: Analyze the lyrics of "Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic" and discuss its themes of love and magic.
- Compare Music Videos: Compare the music video for "Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic" to another Police music video and note the differences and similarities.
- Study Musical Elements: Explore the use of synthesizers in The Police's music, focusing on this song and how it differs from their other work.
Difficult
- Write a Song: Write your own song inspired by "Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic," incorporating similar themes or musical styles.
- Interview Project: Conduct an interview with someone who was a fan of The Police in the 1980s and document their experiences.
- Analyze Band Evolution: Analyze how The Police's music evolved over time, from their first album to their last.
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Oral Exam
For the oral exam, consider the following tasks to delve deeper into the music, history, and impact of The Police and their song "Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic." These tasks are designed to stimulate critical thinking and a deeper understanding of the subject matter.
- Discuss the Evolution: How did The Police's sound evolve from their first album to "Ghost in the Machine"? Consider the musical, lyrical, and technological changes that occurred.
- Impact of Reggae: Discuss the impact of reggae on The Police's music, particularly in "Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic." How did the fusion of rock and reggae influence other bands of the time?
- Songwriting Analysis: Analyze Sting's songwriting process. What themes are prevalent in his songs with The Police, and how do they reflect on his personal experiences or views?
- Cultural Impact: Evaluate the cultural impact of "Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic" in the 1980s. How did it reflect or influence the music scene and society at large?
- Comparison with Contemporary Music: Compare "Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic" to a contemporary song from today. Discuss the similarities and differences in themes, musical style, and production.
OERs on the Topic
Links
MUSIC QUIZ
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