It was released as the lead single from his fifth solo studio album Mercury Falling on 13 February 1996.

The soul-influenced track was inspired by a friend suffering from AIDS, and the impact such an event can have on one's outlook on life.

[3] The song was nominated for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance at the 1997 Grammy Awards.

[5] Fitting in with this theme, Sting brought in the Memphis Horns to play on the track.

[6] It found its greatest success in Canada, where it entered the top 10, reaching number 7.