The Police’s Andy Summers Launches ‘Global Guitar’ Docuseries

Legendary guitarist Andy Summers, celebrated for his groundbreaking contributions to The Police's signature sound, is set to launch an innovative documentary series titled "Global Guitar." The eight-episode unscripted project will follow Summers as he travels across the globe, uncovering how diverse cultures incorporate the guitar into their musical traditions. Each episode will highlight his immersive collaborations with local musicians, using the instrument as a bridge to explore artistic heritage and shared creativity.

Summers, whose iconic riffs on classics like "Every Breath You Take" and "Roxanne" helped catapult The Police to worldwide stardom, described the series as the culmination of a lifelong interest. "This has been a passion of mine for years," he noted. "The guitar is a truly global instrument—every culture shapes it in its own image, adding something unique and meaningful." The documentary will focus not only on musical exchange but also on the personal connections forged through a mutual appreciation for music.

Backing the project is a powerhouse production team. Summers will executive produce alongside Bill Borden, known for the blockbuster "High School Musical" franchise, and Mark Dziak, whose expertise in unscripted television includes global successes like "Big Brother." Their combined experience in music, travel, and reality programming lends the series both creative credibility and broad audience appeal. Borden expressed confidence in the concept, stating, "We see this as a fresh and timely exploration of cultural unity through music—one we believe will resonate internationally."

Distribution efforts will be led by seasoned professionals Todd Barasch and Christina Calio, who plan to introduce the series to international buyers at MIPCOM later this year. Filming is scheduled to commence in early 2025, with hopes of expanding "Global Guitar" into multiple seasons. As one ethnomusicologist remarked, "Projects like this are essential in today’s world—they use music’s universal language to build understanding across borders, offering both entertainment and insight."

For context, The Police—comprising Summers, vocalist Sting, and drummer Stewart Copeland—sold more than 75 million albums and were enshrined in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2003. Since the band’s dissolution, Summers has pursued a multifaceted career encompassing solo music releases, acclaimed photography publications, and a revealing memoir. MIPCOM, where the series will be presented, is a major annual entertainment market where distributors and producers converge to buy, sell, and develop new television content.