“Fields of Gold” is a beautiful and introspective ballad by British singer-songwriter Sting, released in June 1993 as the second single from his fourth studio album, Ten Summoner’s Tales. The song is celebrated for its poetic lyrics, delicate melody, and heartfelt delivery, and it has become one of Sting’s most iconic and enduring works.
The lyrics of “Fields of Gold” are a reflection on love, memory, and the passage of time. Inspired by the sight of barley fields near Sting’s home in England, the song uses the golden fields as a metaphor for fleeting moments of beauty and the enduring power of love. Musically, “Fields of Gold” is a soft folk-pop ballad characterized by its gentle acoustic guitar melody and understated arrangement.
The song achieved critical and commercial success, reaching No. 2 on Canada Top Singles chart. In the United States, it performed well on the Billboard Adult Contemporary Chart, where it peaked at No. 2, and became a radio favorite. Its universal themes and timeless sound have contributed to its lasting popularity.
The music video for “Fields of Gold,” directed by Kevin Godley, features Sting performing in natural, pastoral settings interspersed with symbolic imagery of the golden fields. The visuals mirror the song’s serene and reflective tone, emphasizing its connection to nature and timeless love.
“Fields of Gold” has been covered by numerous artists, including Eva Cassidy, whose version brought the song renewed acclaim for its emotional depth. In 2006, “Fields of Gold” was released as a duet by Barry Gibb and Cliff Richard on Richard’s album “Two’s Company The Duets”.
“Fields Of Gold” was included on Sting’s compilations albums “Fields of Gold: The Best of Sting 1984–1994” (1994) and “The Very Best of Sting & The Police” (1997).