The thing to realize that it's the same dude that's playing the guitar that's doing that staccato storyteller singing. Mark Knopfler is a legendary talent and no one has been able to copy that signature picking style and do it with the subtlety and character that he does. Phenomenal artist 🔥
@@gandhialwaysleavesanonion679 It certainly requires some development of callouses on the end of the fingers, so if you did it without having those callouses, you'd probably get blisters until you'd calloused up - but it's not especially painful.
@@gandhialwaysleavesanonion679 I'm a fingerstyle player, and (for a right handed player) the right (plucking/strumming) hand doesn't get nearly the calluses the left (chording) hand does. Another truly great fingerstyle player is Lindsey Buckingham from Fleetwood Mac. If you have never seen it check out his "Big Love": th-cam.com/video/bVsxvoUX9Rw/w-d-xo.html
Nice job guys, Mark Knopfler's guitar style and tone had a huge impact on the way people approached guitar playing to this day. This came out at the same time as Van Halen's first album, extreme opposites of style.
Oh man, Dire Straits were great, and Mark Knopfler is one of the all-time great guitarists out there, and a fantastic storyteller. This song is a great example - Mark was walking in south London one evening when he heard a pretty mediocre dixie band playing in a pub, so he stepped in to hear them and came away with this song. Great choice as always, thanks for making my morning! Peace and love from Canada!
The video was amazing. I remember seeing that the rollergirl actress in the video passed away in the last 10 years, a minor news blurb when it happened.
When this came out, I thought it was Dylan doing another one of his Hurricane stories. Mark Knopfler’s solo 5:15 AM is one of his greatest stories. The man’s lyrics are vivid.
Yeah, I remember being on the bus with the kids heading for school listening it play on a radio, all of us wondering if its Bob Dylan due to the voice. At the same time recognizing that the music in its approach is too pop-ish than Dyan's stuff. And the intonations weren't Dylanesque either. Yet at first listen, you couldn't help thinking it could be Dylan. Similar thing occurred with Kim Carnes and Rod Stewart when hearing Betty Davies Eyes the first time. So yeah, it was that thing where you know it probably isn't Dylan but you can't be sure until the end of the song when the guy on the radio confirms its this new band.
Really!? Heard it when first released in states, never thought it sounded like Dylan at all. No one else sitting around me at the time thought it sounded like Dylan either
Mark Knopfler, the guitar player and singer for Dire Straits, is very unique in that he plays basically exclusively with his fingers and no pick whatsoever. It's the key to his very controlled, staccato, and almost Spanish guitar sound. His vocals are almost always very "talky" in sort of a hushed husky tone but he can get very emotional (on songs like "Brothers in Arms" or "Romeo & Juliet"). Definitely a band that you guys will LOVE based solely on your appreciation for good production, clever songwriting, and unique guitar.
Great reaction. Dire Straits had such a fresh and crisp sound. And the guitar work! Mark Knopfler is one of those rare guitarists -- you know it's him the second he plays he note. I recommend "Tunnel of Love" or "Telegraph Road".
Terrific band. “Telegraph Road” is their epic, a sweeping 12 minute epic. The live set “Alchemy” is a wall to wall display of incredible musicianship. Knopfler went on to a very successful career writing and preforming soundtracks for films. “The Princess Bride” is probably the best known.
Used to close every show with Local Hero.. one of my faves... from the movie. Rafferty had a song too that I loved... on that movie track. Least, I think that's who it is... @@martincurran-gray2287
I always say to listen to the studio version first. And after you’ve been blown away, watch the live version and be further amazed at how it seems so effortless for him. And he’s SINGING, all at the same time, like it’s the most natural thing in the world to do. Truly remarkable.
The live version from " Alchemy " is the definitive version of Sultans Of Swing...Jaw dropping would be understatement. And Dire Straits/MK is ALWAYS better live
Absolutely NOT THE DEFINITIVE version. This one is. The live version is barely even the same song, and doesn't have the excellent nuanced guitar work. It's fine, but it's not the same...it's just loud and sped up.
It made sense when I learned that Mark was a journalism major who worked as a newspaper reporter for a short time. I notice how some of his lyrics reflect that style of a reporter on the beat telling you about what he sees. Like the name of their album- “Alchemy”, he turned some common metal into gold, writing about an unremarkable band playing on an off-night.
I love the fact that it was essentially a documentary. He was on is way home through southeast London (Greenwich-ish) and ducked into a pub to get out of the rain. Ordered a pint, and was chilling, listening to an amateur Dixieland jazz orchestra that seemed out of its element in mid 1970s London, and when they introduced themselves as the Sultans of Swing, Mark Knopfler knew there was a song in there.
this is the very first song i ever heard from these guys and man i was hooked. funny i was actually in england when it was released raf lakengeath 80-82 USAF..in wacky nato!!!
If you can believe it, this came out during the Disco craze. This song was instantly given a "What the.." look when it came out. I instantly loved it and have had it on my play list ever since. This song also encouraged me to learn to play the guitar. A great song by Mark Knopfler and Dire Straits.
Hard to believe this is your first pass at Dire Straits. Such a great band and one that went through quite an evolution. Similar to The Dan (Knopfler actually played on "Time out of Mind" on Gaucho). You could get lost in any one of their records, for me, especially "Love Over Gold" - but my single favorite track that I would love you guys to check out is "Planet of New Orleans" from the album "On Every Street". It's a masterpiece.
Mark's finger style/compressed guitar sound sound helps set him apart. I always liked his and Jerry Garcia's clean tones the best. Lots to choose from from the Dire Straits back catalog or from his solo/collaboration work. I'll recommend "Speedway at Nazareth".
This song reminds of playing open-mic... just regular guys and someone eventually will get up there and blow your mind how good they are... it's rare but happens.
I remember when this song came out around ‘79. At first I thought it was Bob Dylan with a new band, but it was a new British group Dire Straits led by Mark Knopfler who was working as an English teacher at the time. This song was everywhere and they reached great heights in the age of MTV including doing the song with Sting “Money for Nothing” which was somewhat critical of MTV. Knopfler did eventually work with Dylan playing guitar on his first “Christian” record “Slow Train Coming.” All the tunes on this album are wonderful. The guitar is especially nice on “Precious Angel.”
@jlmain5777. "Slow Train Coming" is a masterpiece! Dylan integrated historical Christianity into his personal perspective, and as a contemporary Gospel album, it worked. "Precious Angel" and "You Gotta Serve Somebody" are both enhanced with Mark Knopler and his guitar work. I'd be pleased to have my favorite reactors have a listen! G
My fave DS song is DOWN TO THE WATERLINE. Also, Mark and Emmylou Harris put out a fantastic album called ALL THE ROADRUNNING. It is a strange collaboration...much like Robert Plant and Allison Krause...but both absolutely work!
I worked at Fender Musical Instruments 1971 - 77. It was the greatest place to work if you loved Rock N Roll. Each department had seriously good players testing the guitars and amps and the Rhodes electric pianos. The best way to test is to crank it up full and see how it does, so....The place rocked with each tester had their own style, some did Santana and Hendrix, and others did Stones riffs and Clapton. I met Leo Fender several times. He was very proud of the great guitarist that played his famous invention and contribution to music.Harold Rhodes felt the same about his electric pianos place in music history.
My American Pro Tele made it from Corona to the Canadian Maritimes with perfect intonation, and dripping with legacy. Always wanted an "ashtray" Tele and pre-CBS Rhodes.
Yo that's awesome! I work in a comedy club and as a massive fan of comedy I feel like I can relate. The people drawn to that place are just funny people and we crank it up too lol. I know you enjoyed those days
Whenever I try out a Strat, it has to have the guitar sound in this song or I won't buy it. Imo it's the true clean Strat tone. I want my LP's, Tele's and Strat's to have their distinct sounds.
I love the Alchemy version... This live is amazing, the sound is incredible... If you can, "Telegraph Road" is so beautiful in this live 😉 Thanks for your reactions, always great 👍❤
If you haven't already, check out the live version of this song on the Alchemy Live recording. More of the vocals, much more of the guitars, and the amazing drummer. One of my favorites.
Mark's vocals are quite a bit different on other tracks. Good listening to anything - there are no bad Dire Straits songs. I recommend 'Money For Nothing', 'Romeo and Juliet' and 'Brothers in Arms' as next listens. Cheers✌
Iconic song..! Check out "So Far Away From Me", ''Walk Of Life'' and for something a bit different "Skate Away". Mark Knopfler doesn't get the credit some other guitar players get... he's amazing..!
I love music about music and just like Rush's In the spirit of radio, this is done so well. It brightens my day when this comes on the radio, it never gets old and they got jokes too.
This is inspired by an occasion when Mark and others wandered into a London Pub and encountered a lackluster band in front of a small crowd that un- ironically called themselves the Sultans of Swing.
Great to see you reacting to DIre Straits - the live 'Alchemy' version of this track is pure gold and you'll see just how great they were as a live band, and the extended solos by Mark Knopfler are a thing of joy!
DS turn album songs live into long, interesting masterpieces, esp. the interaction between guitar and keys is brilliant, the "prog band" of the 80s. As others wrote, see the live 11'-version of Alchemy 1983, truly a guitar journey, a must for music fans. The debut album blew me away, I had never heard a guitar sound like that: Down The Waterline, the relaxed Water Of Love, the groovy Wild West End. My favorite albums are Making Movies and Love Over Gold (no skip songs), not the commercial Brother In Arms (but some good songs). Alchemy is one of my favorite live albums alongside DP Made In Japan, LZ The Songs Remain The Same, Bob Marley Live 1977 Rainbow...; also ideal for driving, these simply put me in a good mood and inspire me. Thanks, keep on going👍
This was the 1st commercial song for them to hit the airwaves and what a splash it was. As a high schooler I remember everyone talking about this song just as they did for the likes of Van Halen, Boston etc.
One of my favourite songs ever. But lisenting to it this time I realised that pretty much every time MK sang his lines, he followed with a completely unique riff. Apart from the chorus' obviously, but an amazing mix of guitar pieces.
I saw them live in 1979 when this song came out, Knopfler's guitar playing is phenomenal and how he achieves such sharp and clean notes while finger picking is beyond me!
A great guitarist, songwriter and singer with a unique style. More Dire Straits for you to enjoy: "Skateaway" (official video version is good), "Tunnel of Love", "Solid Rock", "Romeo and Juliet", "Brothers in Arms".....
Revisit this live at Alchemy…. Fyi, the “guitar George” and Harry who’s got a daytime job are George Young and Harry Vanda from Australia. Their band The Easybeats is worth a listen. George is the older brother of Malcolm and Angus Young from AC/DC, had a hand in producing AC/DC as well.
@@zwieseler It’s a feel good song about dropping into a pub and catching an amateur band tearing it up Friday night after work - they’re not real good but good enough to elicit some affection for what they’re doing but then really top it off with the absolute incongruity of ending their set with - We are the Sultans, the Sultans of Swing! Ahah! Those names were likely chosen because they were commonplace att. V&Y had a professional career of 40 yrs. Easybeats were great, but only lasted the 4 or 5 years Stevie could manage MH, otherwise who knows.
@@kathyconway5327 I think Mark Knopfler is of a vintage who knew The Easybeats. They were pretty big in the UK. George and Harry would see the funny side, I'm sure.
Debut single. Not bad! I plumped up my cushions and got myself a cold drink, before watching your reaction. Do a JJ Cale song (Mark K like(d) him a lot). You're not going to get bored of this song, though. One of *the* great guitar players; his vocals are great too...Deliberately understated (you said talk, very nearly is), but bell clear. 10/10
I'm a big fan of this band and Mark Knopfler is on my G.O.A.T guitarist list. You really should do their live performances (especially the Alchemy Concert) they give an absolute banger performance and are masterful storytellers. I always say they don't just take you on a journey... they provide you with an experience. 😏 I would suggest checking out the live version of this song "Sultans Of Swing" but if you'd prefer to check out another song by them (Live) then I'd suggest giving a listen to "Dire Straits - Once Upon a Time in the West [Alchemy; Live ~ High Quality]" (by the channel: Max Jansson) --Mark Knopfler's guitar picking sound is very unique and is due to his style of picking. He mainly uses his fingers as opposed to a guitar pick and he's known for the creative way he produced sound effects through the use of pedal effects including the slide guitar and the way he used different guitars and amps. I love how the band incorporated flavors of various genres such as folk, country, rock and jazz and produced such a truly distinctive sound, truly magical stuff, bro. This bands special to my heart thanks for sharing.
Mark Knopfler is the writer, singer and lead guitarist. He is one of the best guitarist in the last 40 years. A very expressive tone and sound without being overly done. You reacted to the studio version of this song, which is very good, but the "Alchemy Live" version is one of the best life performances you'll ever see - check it out even if you don't want to do a "re-do" reaction. Knopfler's catalog of songs is extensive, some with Dire Straits, some solo and many collaborations with some of the biggest artists of the last several decades. Just great guitar work.
Yes. Mark Knophler sings that way all the time in that dry, steady voice. He used to write for a newspaper. His most popular song, MONEY FOR NOTHING was an MTV staple that features Sting on the background vocal. But now, I have a song for you that will require the lyric sheet. So, remember to pull it up before you react. The song INDUSTRIAL DISEASE is full of detail, sharp writing and catchy rhythm. You won't know whether to bop your head or unwind the message in the music. I'm waiting to hear your interpretion of what 'brewers droop' is. Enjoy
Any song from Making Movies and Brothers in Arms albums is great, but they really didn't make a bad album as this song is off their excellent debut album. Guitarist Mark Knopfler, also chief writer and lead vocalist made such an immediate impression on the music world that none other than Bob Dylan had him play on his next two albums, Slow Train Coming and one of my favorite Dylan albums, the greatly underrated Infidels where he forms a superb guitar pairing with Mick Taylor from the Stones. He also wrote Private Dancer for Tina Turner, the title song to her biggest album. He and Dire Straits were her backing band for that song.
LOVE the reaction!! :) ♥ “Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you believe in Him so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” ~ Romans 15:13
So much music to look back on Mark Knopfler’s career. He is truly a musical unicorn, no one else like him. So many styles: Dire Straits, his movie soundtracks (Princess Bride, Local Hero), country (Neck and Neck with Chet Atkins, the Notting Hillbillies (1 album), Celtic (Lily of the West with the Chieftains), collaborations (his version of What A Wonderful World with Chris Botti is beautiful, or try Mademoiselle Will Decide with Jools Holland), and then you get to his solo material. Pick your musical style, Knopfler has probably done it. Lullabies (Why Worry, All That Matters). Elvis songs: Calling Elvis, Back To Tupelo. Lots of songs about Muhammad Ali, but Knopfler does a fantastic blues song about Sonny Liston, which you really should watch the Live version for the best effect. Want a truly moving holiday song, try Ragpickers Dream. He has produced so much incredibly high quality work, it’s mind blowing.
This came out when I was in high school and the first time I heard it on the radio I was hooked. I had never heard of this band before but the next day I ran out and bought the 45 RPM single and played the hell out of it, started to learn some of those licks as well as I could since I had just gotten my first electric guitar. It was on the radio all the time. Love it to this day. The live version is indeed fantastic as everyone is commenting but still, I'm so glad you heard this studio version which is what we all heard on the radio and on the records, it's just such a masterpiece on so many levels.
Yes, he is in my top handful of favorite guitarists. I just really wish you guys could listen to either the Alchemy Live version, or better still there is a version of this with Eric Clapton. Even if you guys just did it in your own time, it's well worth it, trust me! I just love the "call and response" between his vocals and guitar!
By far one of my most favorite songs. I know your generation is in to bass but mine into lead/tenor guitar. Strings are beautiful. But my other favorite is Baker Street so I’m a “trumpet playing band” lover too!
You really need to see their version of "Sultans of Swing" live from Alchemy!... it's a great live performance. And Terry Williams on drums just kills it. In fact, even though everyone sounds great. I wish they focused on Terry during that performance, a little more than what they already do. But other than that it's an all around jam session. YOU WON'T BE DISAPPOINTED!
One of the biggest bands in the world in the 80s though this was their first single from 78. Song is about when they were playing around the pubs and clubs in South London
I hear so much Chet Atkins, Joe Pass, and B.B. King in Marks playing. He was such an outlier guitarist in those days, so unique. He has incredible dexterity, creativity, and musical intent when he plays. I adore the man.
The best “tip of the iceberg” to get started with. Dire Straits put out only six studio albums (a few live ones) before they split. As Mark Knopfler said, “it got too big.” On his own, he’s composed nine movie soundtracks (including “The Princess Bride”) and nine solo albums, working on #10 now. And a few collaborations, including Emmy Lou Harris and Chet Atkins, one of Mark’s own guitar heroes. Listen on, it keeps getting better!
Mark Knopfler is one of the very few guitarists who finger pick. And he is definitely a master of the instrument and technique. He sang and played all the lead fills, both solos and even kept up with the rhythm between fills. I’m telling you guys, if you ever watch him play this song there’s never a single second when he’s not engaged. This arrangement is an unusual example of call and response where the call is his voice and the response is his guitar. You don’t see a lot of that style and I can’t think of another example where the call and response is the same person and this complex. Probably the next one you’ll want to hear from him is Money For Nothing. Much love ❤️
The thing to realize that it's the same dude that's playing the guitar that's doing that staccato storyteller singing. Mark Knopfler is a legendary talent and no one has been able to copy that signature picking style and do it with the subtlety and character that he does. Phenomenal artist 🔥
Truer words were never spoken, Ben. Mark is, arguably, the most elegant guitar player to ever pick up the instrument.
Chet Atkins would disagree. :) Mark idolized him and their playing styles are very similar.
@@Nite37 they're pretty much Neck and Neck Imo😆
Love that album. Except I almost threw my guitars away after I heard it.
"You're good, but you're no Mark Knoplfer." - Chet to Mark on "There'll Be Some Changes Made". 😄
Well he plays the fancy parts when he doesn't have lyrics. Bit like the blues?
Marc Knoffler is a fabulous guitar player. Dire Straits and Knoffler have a deep rabbit hole to go down. Excellent reaction fellas. Appreciate you 🙏 ❤
He was a real one of a kind guitar player. Plays with his fingers, doesn't use a pick, which is a big part of his style.
Should say "is", he's very much alive, but don't know what he's doing musically these days.
Would that hurt the average persons fingers
@@gandhialwaysleavesanonion679 It certainly requires some development of callouses on the end of the fingers, so if you did it without having those callouses, you'd probably get blisters until you'd calloused up - but it's not especially painful.
@@michaelwebster8389 Oh wow okay, I had thought so regarding the callous part but wasnt sure - thank you:)
@@gandhialwaysleavesanonion679 I'm a fingerstyle player, and (for a right handed player) the right (plucking/strumming) hand doesn't get nearly the calluses the left (chording) hand does. Another truly great fingerstyle player is Lindsey Buckingham from Fleetwood Mac. If you have never seen it check out his "Big Love": th-cam.com/video/bVsxvoUX9Rw/w-d-xo.html
Everyone always talks about how great the guitar is on this which they are but the drummer kills it on this as well
The great Pick Withers.
exactly. the way he’s able to switch up tempo based on the guitar and lyrics. amazing
Nice job guys, Mark Knopfler's guitar style and tone had a huge impact on the way people approached guitar playing to this day. This came out at the same time as Van Halen's first album, extreme opposites of style.
You can kind of hear the Knopfler sound influence on VH’s “Finish What You Started.”
Oh man, Dire Straits were great, and Mark Knopfler is one of the all-time great guitarists out there, and a fantastic storyteller. This song is a great example - Mark was walking in south London one evening when he heard a pretty mediocre dixie band playing in a pub, so he stepped in to hear them and came away with this song. Great choice as always, thanks for making my morning! Peace and love from Canada!
He writes about what he observes and encapsulates his ideas beautifully in these musical vignettes. That ain’t work, that’s the way you do it!
Skateaway is my favorite of theirs...a somewhat forgotten hit from the early 80's.
The video was amazing. I remember seeing that the rollergirl actress in the video passed away in the last 10 years, a minor news blurb when it happened.
Roller girl, she's taking chances...@@wvmtneerwv
That album - Making Movies - was a great one. I love tunnel of Love, Romeo and Juliet, Skateaway, Expresso Love, Solid Rock
Me too. Making Movies was such a great album
This is great. The Alchemy Live version is unbelievable
When this came out, I thought it was Dylan doing another one of his Hurricane stories.
Mark Knopfler’s solo 5:15 AM is one of his greatest stories. The man’s lyrics are vivid.
Yeah, I remember being on the bus with the kids heading for school listening it play on a radio, all of us wondering if its Bob Dylan due to the voice. At the same time recognizing that the music in its approach is too pop-ish than Dyan's stuff. And the intonations weren't Dylanesque either. Yet at first listen, you couldn't help thinking it could be Dylan. Similar thing occurred with Kim Carnes and Rod Stewart when hearing Betty Davies Eyes the first time. So yeah, it was that thing where you know it probably isn't Dylan but you can't be sure until the end of the song when the guy on the radio confirms its this new band.
Really!? Heard it when first released in states, never thought it sounded like Dylan at all. No one else sitting around me at the time thought it sounded like Dylan either
Knoplfer is basically Dylan if Dylan could sing.
Knopfler's a better songwriter than Dylan.
@@marcribe6483 and 5 years later Mark produced Dylan's Infidels album and contributed his guitar-playing too. They toured together about a decade ago.
Mark Knopfler, the guitar player and singer for Dire Straits, is very unique in that he plays basically exclusively with his fingers and no pick whatsoever. It's the key to his very controlled, staccato, and almost Spanish guitar sound. His vocals are almost always very "talky" in sort of a hushed husky tone but he can get very emotional (on songs like "Brothers in Arms" or "Romeo & Juliet"). Definitely a band that you guys will LOVE based solely on your appreciation for good production, clever songwriting, and unique guitar.
Great reaction. Dire Straits had such a fresh and crisp sound. And the guitar work! Mark Knopfler is one of those rare guitarists -- you know it's him the second he plays he note. I recommend "Tunnel of Love" or "Telegraph Road".
Terrific band. “Telegraph Road” is their epic, a sweeping 12 minute epic. The live set “Alchemy” is a wall to wall display of incredible musicianship.
Knopfler went on to a very successful career writing and preforming soundtracks for films. “The Princess Bride” is probably the best known.
“Local Hero” too if I remember correctly
Used to close every show with Local Hero.. one of my faves... from the movie. Rafferty had a song too that I loved... on that movie track. Least, I think that's who it is... @@martincurran-gray2287
I always say to listen to the studio version first. And after you’ve been blown away, watch the live version and be further amazed at how it seems so effortless for him. And he’s SINGING, all at the same time, like it’s the most natural thing in the world to do. Truly remarkable.
This was the hottest album at the time. You couldn’t turn on the radio without hearing this song. The whole album is great.
The live version from " Alchemy " is the definitive version of Sultans Of Swing...Jaw dropping would be understatement. And Dire Straits/MK is ALWAYS better live
They'll appreciate the drumming on that one!
@@naturesounds-ib5dh Terry Williams ALMOST stole the show from MK
Wait till you see the Alchemy version. Hold onto your hats fellas.
Absolutely NOT THE DEFINITIVE version. This one is. The live version is barely even the same song, and doesn't have the excellent nuanced guitar work. It's fine, but it's not the same...it's just loud and sped up.
I just watched it on your recommendation. All I can say is WOW!!! La...you would love the drumming.
It made sense when I learned that Mark was a journalism major who worked as a newspaper reporter for a short time. I notice how some of his lyrics reflect that style of a reporter on the beat telling you about what he sees. Like the name of their album- “Alchemy”, he turned some common metal into gold, writing about an unremarkable band playing on an off-night.
You should be watching the Alchemy version of this song, which is one of the great live performances in my view.
It’s nice to see reactors appreciate this band. Thank you for this, brings back great memories of my youth!
Gary Moore - Still Got the Blues (live) is a good one.
They've already done that I believe
Some deeper cuts I love. "Where do you think you're going" (esp live) and "down to the waterline"
I love the fact that it was essentially a documentary. He was on is way home through southeast London (Greenwich-ish) and ducked into a pub to get out of the rain. Ordered a pint, and was chilling, listening to an amateur Dixieland jazz orchestra that seemed out of its element in mid 1970s London, and when they introduced themselves as the Sultans of Swing, Mark Knopfler knew there was a song in there.
The live version from " Alchemy " is amazing !!!!
this is the very first song i ever heard from these guys and man i was hooked. funny i was actually in england when it was released raf lakengeath 80-82 USAF..in wacky nato!!!
It was released in '78 though..
Mark Knopfler also played the lead guitar on the Steely Dan track, "Time out of Mind".
If you can believe it, this came out during the Disco craze. This song was instantly given a "What the.." look when it came out. I instantly loved it and have had it on my play list ever since. This song also encouraged me to learn to play the guitar. A great song by Mark Knopfler and Dire Straits.
Yes during the peak of disco on top 40 radio and many clubs, but there was more non disco music out there than disco.
Hard to believe this is your first pass at Dire Straits. Such a great band and one that went through quite an evolution. Similar to The Dan (Knopfler actually played on "Time out of Mind" on Gaucho). You could get lost in any one of their records, for me, especially "Love Over Gold" - but my single favorite track that I would love you guys to check out is "Planet of New Orleans" from the album "On Every Street". It's a masterpiece.
Mark's finger style/compressed guitar sound sound helps set him apart. I always liked his and Jerry Garcia's clean tones the best.
Lots to choose from from the Dire Straits back catalog or from his solo/collaboration work. I'll recommend "Speedway at Nazareth".
This song reminds of playing open-mic... just regular guys and someone eventually will get up there and blow your mind how good they are... it's rare but happens.
This is one of those songs where every note needs to be there and played that way.
And that is why I don't like the live version
I saw Mark give a solo show about 20 years ago in Indy. It was superb. One of the best shows ever.
@cshubs "Skate a Way" is one classic rock tune!
I'd love our reactors give this a spin!
Also "Romeo and Juliet"!
I think this one of top 10 best songs ever❗️
I remember when this song came out around ‘79. At first I thought it was Bob Dylan with a new band, but it was a new British group Dire Straits led by Mark Knopfler who was working as an English teacher at the time. This song was everywhere and they reached great heights in the age of MTV including doing the song with Sting “Money for Nothing” which was somewhat critical of MTV. Knopfler did eventually work with Dylan playing guitar on his first “Christian” record “Slow Train Coming.” All the tunes on this album are wonderful. The guitar is especially nice on “Precious Angel.”
@jlmain5777. "Slow Train Coming" is a masterpiece! Dylan integrated historical Christianity into his personal perspective, and as a contemporary Gospel album, it worked.
"Precious Angel" and "You Gotta Serve Somebody" are both enhanced with Mark Knopler and his guitar work.
I'd be pleased to have my favorite reactors have a listen!
G
@@JamesJohnson-ig6of It sure is a masterpiece! My favorite Dylan record. And one of my favorite all time albums.
@@jlmain5777 👌😊
My fave DS song is DOWN TO THE WATERLINE. Also, Mark and Emmylou Harris put out a fantastic album called ALL THE ROADRUNNING. It is a strange collaboration...much like Robert Plant and Allison Krause...but both absolutely work!
Oh, man, you guys need to hear their song "Skateaway" and "Expresso Love" from the album "Making Movies". You will be impressed.
I worked at Fender Musical Instruments 1971 - 77. It was the greatest place to work if you loved Rock N Roll. Each department had seriously good players testing the guitars and amps and the Rhodes electric pianos. The best way to test is to crank it up full and see how it does, so....The place rocked with each tester had their own style, some did Santana and Hendrix, and others did Stones riffs and Clapton. I met Leo Fender several times. He was very proud of the great guitarist that played his famous invention and contribution to music.Harold Rhodes felt the same about his electric pianos place in music history.
My American Pro Tele made it from Corona to the Canadian Maritimes with perfect intonation, and dripping with legacy. Always wanted an "ashtray" Tele and pre-CBS Rhodes.
Yo that's awesome! I work in a comedy club and as a massive fan of comedy I feel like I can relate. The people drawn to that place are just funny people and we crank it up too lol. I know you enjoyed those days
Whenever I try out a Strat, it has to have the guitar sound in this song or I won't buy it. Imo it's the true clean Strat tone. I want my LP's, Tele's and Strat's to have their distinct sounds.
I love the Alchemy version... This live is amazing, the sound is incredible... If you can, "Telegraph Road" is so beautiful in this live 😉
Thanks for your reactions, always great 👍❤
Brothers in arms.
If you haven't already, check out the live version of this song on the Alchemy Live recording. More of the vocals, much more of the guitars, and the amazing drummer. One of my favorites.
Check out Mark ' s playing In Dwight Yoakam's , A thousand miles from nowhere. It' wonderful.
Mark's vocals are quite a bit different on other tracks. Good listening to anything - there are no bad Dire Straits songs. I recommend 'Money For Nothing', 'Romeo and Juliet' and 'Brothers in Arms' as next listens. Cheers✌
GREAT reaction! Give "Brothers in Arms" by Dire Straits a listen! It's like a whispered prayer that is so meaningful! MAGICAL!
Damn the live version is so damn good it makes this studio version dull. That’s how good the alchemy version is.
Iconic song..! Check out "So Far Away From Me", ''Walk Of Life'' and for something a bit different "Skate Away".
Mark Knopfler doesn't get the credit some other guitar players get... he's amazing..!
My favorite dire straits song such a great jam
I love music about music and just like Rush's In the spirit of radio, this is done so well. It brightens my day when this comes on the radio, it never gets old and they got jokes too.
blows my mind how young he was when he did this shit, mark knopfler is a 1 of a kind, and he has so many great songs
This is inspired by an occasion when Mark and others wandered into a London Pub and encountered a lackluster band in front of a small crowd that un- ironically called themselves the Sultans of Swing.
Mark Knopfler - lead guitar, vocals; plays fingerstyle(no pick), top 20 guitarist all-time
Great to see you reacting to DIre Straits - the live 'Alchemy' version of this track is pure gold and you'll see just how great they were as a live band, and the extended solos by Mark Knopfler are a thing of joy!
DS turn album songs live into long, interesting masterpieces, esp. the interaction between guitar and keys is brilliant, the "prog band" of the 80s. As others wrote, see the live 11'-version of Alchemy 1983, truly a guitar journey, a must for music fans.
The debut album blew me away, I had never heard a guitar sound like that: Down The Waterline, the relaxed Water Of Love, the groovy Wild West End. My favorite albums are Making Movies and Love Over Gold (no skip songs), not the commercial Brother In Arms (but some good songs).
Alchemy is one of my favorite live albums alongside DP Made In Japan, LZ The Songs Remain The Same, Bob Marley Live 1977 Rainbow...; also ideal for driving, these simply put me in a good mood and inspire me. Thanks, keep on going👍
This was the 1st commercial song for them to hit the airwaves and what a splash it was. As a high schooler I remember everyone talking about this song just as they did for the likes of Van Halen, Boston etc.
One of my favourite songs ever. But lisenting to it this time I realised that pretty much every time MK sang his lines, he followed with a completely unique riff. Apart from the chorus' obviously, but an amazing mix of guitar pieces.
Superb technician , Mark Knopfler showcases the clean style and what a Fender Stratocaster can do.
I saw them live in 1979 when this song came out, Knopfler's guitar playing is phenomenal and how he achieves such sharp and clean notes while finger picking is beyond me!
Definitely should do some more. Telegraph Road, Brothers in Arms, Latest Trick...sooo many. And do the live versions. Outstanding.
You got it. He just talks. He is a master story teller with insane guitarwotk to accentuate his words. What makes them special.
A great guitarist, songwriter and singer with a unique style. More Dire Straits for you to enjoy: "Skateaway" (official video version is good), "Tunnel of Love", "Solid Rock", "Romeo and Juliet", "Brothers in Arms".....
That guitar goes straight to the soul
La had it over Big boy this evening.
Mark Knopfler is a GOAT.
Fingerstyle Lead Guitarist.
Great reaction. Highly recommend checking out their Grammy award winning album "Brothers in Arms". Pretty much every track on the album is gold.
Revisit this live at Alchemy….
Fyi, the “guitar George” and Harry who’s got a daytime job are George Young and Harry Vanda from Australia. Their band The Easybeats is worth a listen. George is the older brother of Malcolm and Angus Young from AC/DC, had a hand in producing AC/DC as well.
Nah … and it were true George & Harry would’ve taken offence.
@@kathyconway5327 why would they take offence?
@@zwieseler It’s a feel good song about dropping into a pub and catching an amateur band tearing it up Friday night after work - they’re not real good but good enough to elicit some affection for what they’re doing but then really top it off with the absolute incongruity of ending their set with - We are the Sultans, the Sultans of Swing! Ahah! Those names were likely chosen because they were commonplace att. V&Y had a professional career of 40 yrs. Easybeats were great, but only lasted the 4 or 5 years Stevie could manage MH, otherwise who knows.
@@kathyconway5327 I think Mark Knopfler is of a vintage who knew The Easybeats. They were pretty big in the UK.
George and Harry would see the funny side, I'm sure.
Debut single. Not bad! I plumped up my cushions and got myself a cold drink, before watching your reaction. Do a JJ Cale song (Mark K like(d) him a lot). You're not going to get bored of this song, though. One of *the* great guitar players; his vocals are great too...Deliberately understated (you said talk, very nearly is), but bell clear. 10/10
I'm a big fan of this band and Mark Knopfler is on my G.O.A.T guitarist list. You really should do their live performances (especially the Alchemy Concert) they give an absolute banger performance and are masterful storytellers. I always say they don't just take you on a journey... they provide you with an experience. 😏 I would suggest checking out the live version of this song "Sultans Of Swing" but if you'd prefer to check out another song by them (Live) then I'd suggest giving a listen to "Dire Straits - Once Upon a Time in the West [Alchemy; Live ~ High Quality]" (by the channel: Max Jansson) --Mark Knopfler's guitar picking sound is very unique and is due to his style of picking. He mainly uses his fingers as opposed to a guitar pick and he's known for the creative way he produced sound effects through the use of pedal effects including the slide guitar and the way he used different guitars and amps. I love how the band incorporated flavors of various genres such as folk, country, rock and jazz and produced such a truly distinctive sound, truly magical stuff, bro. This bands special to my heart thanks for sharing.
You must hear and see the live alchemy on line. Way above anything studio. They are great but don't miss the live concert
There was a rumor that someone asked Prince what it was like being the best guitarist and Prince said go ask Mark Knopfler.
Pure clean talent . Guitar player mark uses 3 finger pickin style. Got it from Chet Adkins
You guys should listen to the Alchemy Live version of Telegraph Road. One of the greatest live performances ever.
Mark Knopfler is the writer, singer and lead guitarist. He is one of the best guitarist in the last 40 years. A very expressive tone and sound without being overly done. You reacted to the studio version of this song, which is very good, but the "Alchemy Live" version is one of the best life performances you'll ever see - check it out even if you don't want to do a "re-do" reaction.
Knopfler's catalog of songs is extensive, some with Dire Straits, some solo and many collaborations with some of the biggest artists of the last several decades. Just great guitar work.
Heavily influenced by Bob Dylan. Sounds so much like him on vocals in certain parts of the song.
You guyz need to do more Dire Straits - great rabbit hole - Mark Knopfler is one of the greatest storytellers of all time, and NOBODY plays like that!
The studio version is great for sure.
Put the "Alchemy Live" version on your to-do list. Excellent performance! 🤙😎
Loved watching your faces as this song unfolded - it was priceliss. Really enjoy your channel
Yes. Mark Knophler sings that way all the time in that dry, steady voice. He used to write for a newspaper. His most popular song, MONEY FOR NOTHING was an MTV staple that features Sting on the background vocal.
But now, I have a song for you that will require the lyric sheet. So, remember to pull it up before you react. The song INDUSTRIAL DISEASE is full of detail, sharp writing and catchy rhythm. You won't know whether to bop your head or unwind the message in the music. I'm waiting to hear your interpretion of what 'brewers droop' is.
Enjoy
When it came out I wore this record out on the jukebox along with George Benson , this masquerade
They have a Great song titled " Heavy Fuel". You'll love the drums.
Any song from Making Movies and Brothers in Arms albums is great, but they really didn't make a bad album as this song is off their excellent debut album. Guitarist Mark Knopfler, also chief writer and lead vocalist made such an immediate impression on the music world that none other than Bob Dylan had him play on his next two albums, Slow Train Coming and one of my favorite Dylan albums, the greatly underrated Infidels where he forms a superb guitar pairing with Mick Taylor from the Stones. He also wrote Private Dancer for Tina Turner, the title song to her biggest album. He and Dire Straits were her backing band for that song.
Mark Knofler never seems to be mentioned with other greats but the other greats know what's up!
My favorite Dire Straits song! I've heard it probably a million times. I hope that I hear it a million more! I think it'll end up on your playlists ❤
Mark knoffler was Steely Dans guitarist on part of Gaucho
Lead vocalist of DS is a red fender. Mark does backing vocals.😉
LOVE the reaction!! :) ♥ “Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you believe in Him so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” ~ Romans 15:13
Try "Once Upon A Time In The West" or "Telegraph Road"
So much music to look back on Mark Knopfler’s career. He is truly a musical unicorn, no one else like him. So many styles: Dire Straits, his movie soundtracks (Princess Bride, Local Hero), country (Neck and Neck with Chet Atkins, the Notting Hillbillies (1 album), Celtic (Lily of the West with the Chieftains), collaborations (his version of What A Wonderful World with Chris Botti is beautiful, or try Mademoiselle Will Decide with Jools Holland), and then you get to his solo material. Pick your musical style, Knopfler has probably done it. Lullabies (Why Worry, All That Matters). Elvis songs: Calling Elvis, Back To Tupelo. Lots of songs about Muhammad Ali, but Knopfler does a fantastic blues song about Sonny Liston, which you really should watch the Live version for the best effect. Want a truly moving holiday song, try Ragpickers Dream. He has produced so much incredibly high quality work, it’s mind blowing.
This came out when I was in high school and the first time I heard it on the radio I was hooked. I had never heard of this band before but the next day I ran out and bought the 45 RPM single and played the hell out of it, started to learn some of those licks as well as I could since I had just gotten my first electric guitar. It was on the radio all the time. Love it to this day. The live version is indeed fantastic as everyone is commenting but still, I'm so glad you heard this studio version which is what we all heard on the radio and on the records, it's just such a masterpiece on so many levels.
I urge you to check the live Alchemy version. Minds will be blown.
The Sultans are just a bad ass band in London that play in the pubs on the weekends. That's how I've always took it.
Yes, he is in my top handful of favorite guitarists. I just really wish you guys could listen to either the Alchemy Live version, or better still there is a version of this with Eric Clapton. Even if you guys just did it in your own time, it's well worth it, trust me! I just love the "call and response" between his vocals and guitar!
By far one of my most favorite songs. I know your generation is in to bass but mine into lead/tenor guitar. Strings are beautiful. But my other favorite is Baker Street so I’m a “trumpet playing band” lover too!
Another great song that's on my playlist.
Thank you. 😊
Telegraph Road, the dude tells/sings another story.
A magnificent band. Saw DS live in New Zealand in the early 80s. Unforgettable ❤️
You really need to see their version of "Sultans of Swing" live from Alchemy!... it's a great live performance. And Terry Williams on drums just kills it. In fact, even though everyone sounds great. I wish they focused on Terry during that performance, a little more than what they already do. But other than that it's an all around jam session. YOU WON'T BE DISAPPOINTED!
One of the biggest bands in the world in the 80s though this was their first single from 78. Song is about when they were playing around the pubs and clubs in South London
He lets his guitar do the singing as Mark tells the story.
I hear so much Chet Atkins, Joe Pass, and B.B. King in Marks playing. He was such an outlier guitarist in those days, so unique. He has incredible dexterity, creativity, and musical intent when he plays. I adore the man.
Marc did a wonderful album with Chet Atkins, “The Neck and Neck.” It’s a treasure. Check it out.
The best “tip of the iceberg” to get started with. Dire Straits put out only six studio albums (a few live ones) before they split. As Mark Knopfler said, “it got too big.” On his own, he’s composed nine movie soundtracks (including “The Princess Bride”) and nine solo albums, working on #10 now. And a few collaborations, including Emmy Lou Harris and Chet Atkins, one of Mark’s own guitar heroes.
Listen on, it keeps getting better!
Mark Knopfler is one of the very few guitarists who finger pick. And he is definitely a master of the instrument and technique. He sang and played all the lead fills, both solos and even kept up with the rhythm between fills. I’m telling you guys, if you ever watch him play this song there’s never a single second when he’s not engaged. This arrangement is an unusual example of call and response where the call is his voice and the response is his guitar. You don’t see a lot of that style and I can’t think of another example where the call and response is the same person and this complex. Probably the next one you’ll want to hear from him is Money For Nothing. Much love ❤️
👍 You guys are honorary sultans. Spreading the music.
Clean guitar sound is all finger picked
Such a classic!!!!🎉😂❤