The star Pete Townshend struggled to work with: Sting, the man with no self-doubt
(Credits: Far Out / Harry Chase / UCLA Library)
Wed 14 January 2026 7:00, UK
In the music industry, a healthy dose of self-confidence can be a powerful asset, especially for bands like The Who, who were at the peak of their powers. Their electrifying live performances and high-concept records were a testament to the individual brilliance of each band member, a group of live-wire musicians driven by a prophecy to become the biggest rock band in the world.
However, this confidence began to wane after the death of drummer Keith Moon in the late 1970s. The band's farewell tour showcased a stark contrast between the two main figureheads, Roger Daltrey and Pete Townshend, who seemed at odds with each other. This decline in confidence and the band's eventual dissolution highlight the importance of maintaining a balance between self-belief and humility.
Townshend, in particular, struggled with the self-assurance of Sting, a musician he greatly admired. In a 2012 interview with Mojo, Townshend expressed his admiration for Sting's talent and songwriting prowess, but also his difficulty in working with someone so self-assured. "The only guy I know who doesn't have any shade of self-doubt is Sting," Townshend said. "And therefore, he is very difficult for us to deal with because of that. We all find him difficult because he is so immensely talented and writes beautifully. But there's something about this man that is so self-assured that he can leave The Police."
While self-belief can lead to unparalleled work, it can also become a barrier when it borders on arrogance. Townshend's struggle with Sting's unwavering self-belief highlights the delicate balance musicians must maintain between confidence and humility. It's a fine line that can make or break their ability to collaborate and connect with their audience.
