And then I heard... DIRE STRAITS - Sultans of Swing (First Time Hearing!!)

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[@TheKnutselaar]

His voice is telling the story, his guitar is singing the song

[@grimmertwin2148]

Beautifully written. I'm gonna steal that sorry.

[@smsmoof8128]

Word

[@bpw8139]

@@grimmertwin2148 Strumming my pain with his fingers, singing my life with his words.

[@browniewin4121]

best comment ever

[@sergiovd7919]

Wow. Great phrase man. True story.

[@DianeKnight-z8x]

I am a seventy-five year old woman from Charleston ,S.C. This is the millionth time of hearing this. Just as good as the first time❤

[@bju194422]

I'm right there with you. I'll be 74 next month & watch this live version frequently. It will never get old! Love seeing people react to it for the 1st time. 🥰

[@erniesteele3164]

I'm with both of you...I love watching these younger folks react to this version which, in my opinion, is one of the best live performances ever recorded... I'm 74 myself and saw more than my share of arena and stadium shows over the years... Elvis, Tina, Garth, Meatloaf and a few I can't remember.

[@bonya4585]

@@erniesteele3164Don’t forget Springsteen!

[@Gwyhir]

You have great taste

[@mattmorganRnR]

Yes! Shout out from Greenville!!

[@robertvanek1933]

Mark Knopfler (the lead singer) is quietly one of the greatest guitarists of all time. He casually does things people who have been playing for decades can't replicate. Someone told me once "Mark Knopfler is your favorite guitarist's favorite guitarist."

[@dnzprobr]

He’s just a ruthless brutally good guitar player. Not many can get close to him. 🫡

[@Brian-xu9di]

Possibly the greatest.

[@ChristopherBennett-rq5nq]

I seen Dire Straits in Germany on Brothers in Arms tour and seen Mark on his own Twice in Manchester. Love playing Alchemy on long drives at night.

[@lpluva1]

There is a great video of Mark playing with Chet Atkins and it's clear that without Chet who knows what Mark would sound like. The reverence Mark had for him is on full display. Like the video with SRV sitting down with Albert King, it was like a child looking up at a loving parent.

[@userless191]

@@Brian-xu9di that's Paco, you can ask Mark

[@windsorSJ]

No drum machine, no autotune, no sampling just guys mastering their instruments. This is the music us old buggers grew up to.

[@daphnethurlow5388]

And we are so happy we did. Right?

[@colindebourg9012]

Absolutely we are.

[@kohedunn]

Yeah.......

[@BRYDO.DRUMMER]

HERE.HERE 🎵🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@alexandrebelair4360]

It's still there today. It's bigger if anything but it's much more niche because of the internet

[@speakingtherealtruth]

Dire Straits drummer Terry Williams was just nothing short of FABULOUS!

[@brandontwohawks]

You know, the drumming is so in the pocket that I really didn't notice it til I saw this live version and could see him. Superb drummer.

[@morganspector5161]

Listen to his drumming you'd think he has three hands. And so completely tight: his drumming drives the band as a great drummer should

[@brentsegrist246]

Is this Terry or Pick?

[@peterpeter1829]

@@brentsegrist246 Terry Williams

[@huwnicholas4327]

bought him a pint of guiness, legend

[@MrHaymaker]

"If you don't like this, I'm glad I wasn't born with your ears" .... That's a legendary comment

[@wikkedburn6600]

Lol😂

[@Josh_from_Jersey]

AMEN

[@TheInvisibleMan229]

"He left Earth" is my favorite comment... cracked me up!

[@christopherfletcher5384]

Well my ears love this ❤️❤️❤️

[@charlesbduke7947]

When you hear the studio version, you hear the ideal, the refined thought. When you hear the live version, you hear the soul of the group.

[@michellefrank8116]

I would have started with the studio version. But that's just me. I heard this growing up

[@Songfugel]

True now, not so much with bands of this era, when bands often had studio time for max 1 or 2 takes since it was so expensive. That is why older studio versions have so much of that live magic in them

[@benluisada]

that is a such great phrase man. you just put in beautiful words my thoughts exactly.

[@averagejoe7834]

​@@michellefrank8116This live was just the right one to launch him off on Dire Straits and especially Mark Knopfler. Insane live performance and rarely skipped a beat.

[@Reiknar]

Kinda where my thoughts were going as I watched him watch the performance. The live performance is more about the band, their skill and improvisation both in the playing and in his song delivery. Compared with the studio or album version, the album version is 'cleaner' it's more about the lyrics painting an audio picture for you.

[@jamespelton2921]

Fifteen years ago I blasted this music while running and getting chemo for pancreatic cancer and I swear its the reason Im still here.Long liveMark Knopfler the greatest guitarist ever

[@poloreacts27]

The drummer was such a joy to watch. I’ve never seen anyone play the guitar like that and with such poise! One of the greatest I’ve witnessed so far

[@rodbrown8934]

Terry really pulled all the drumming stops out on this as his dad was in the audience hearing and seeing his son play drums for the first time

[@CroMagJohnson]

well said. there aren't many shredders that play with "poise". the only other one that comes to mind is eric johnson. if you've never seen eric johnson - cliffs of dover, it's also up there.

[@markjohnson5876]

check out their epic song "Money for Nothing" it was an influential music video back in the day too

[@jjc5407]

None of the overdubs that usually get added to live recordings to 'correct' any flaws either. This is exactly how it sounded on the night. Just watch Mark Knopfler's right hand. It never stops moving. This isn't someone picking a simple, repeating pattern or strumming along while singing and then throwing in some fills between lines. He's playing with a level of complexity while singing that few if any could begin to match. And then there are the solos. Such speed and clarity on a Stratocaster with not a note out-of-place - just awesome.

[@billc.5861]

There’s a few special guitar players and drummers in the same band over the years. Joe Satriani.” Satch Boogie”. Live Satriani It has the incredible Jeff Campatelli on drums having fun doing their thing with smiles.

[@SeeUsFly]

In my 70's now, I think I can say with authority, "Most people today are unaware of the richness of music made in 70's, 80's, & 90's."

[@leonardasrutkus3885]

I'm 20 and I absolutely agree, I think I'm 70 inside aswell

[@Rustyc55]

Amen bro

[@dannyb2580]

I grew up as a teen in the 80's and totally agree...I picked up my 1st guitar in 84 since then I have bent strings nearly every day... IMO the best finger picker ever to grace this earth... No guitar pick needed !!!

[@kayoneil4228]

ABSOLUTELY RIGHT!

[@Beluga_Too]

plenty of good music made these days my friend, just none of it is on the radio. Coming from a ~45 year old.

[@paulhood5950]

The drummer's dad was in the audience, hearing his son play for the first time. Guaranteed that was one proud father.

[@mammuchan8923]

OMG his heart must have almost burst out of pride

[@davidroberts2777]

The Drummer is Terry Williams. He is an amazing dummer. Fun times for a man. My generation of Music.

[@michellesirois6954]

Really? Wow...thats cool."Hey dad...look what i can do"😊

[@MSalt69]

Urban myth. They’d heard him many times before.

[@goldhelmchen2634]

rly?! ❤😊

[@speakingtherealtruth]

As a live playing band, this performance is beyond description! This was 1980 ffs. No special effect, or back up singers, no dancers, no anything, JUST DIRE STRAITS delivering!

[@bernardgillett678]

Delivered every time , no gimmicks pure heaven sent rock,

[@ringo983]

That was the time when music was listened to, not watched. I'm still listening to the music, not watching it.

[@DianeLee999]

Dire Straits came out of nowhere and Mark K. blew the doors off guitar players everywhere. He still does. 💜

[@MarkoMakela-kk7qf]

Playieng wit out plektra mekes it ven more special... with his fingers only and so sharp... nice

[@DianeLee999]

@@MarkoMakela-kk7qf Agreed 👍

[@clairewyndham1971]

His guitar playing is up there with the best alive.. let him rock...

[@AllenBurbank-z1c]

Fact

[@clairewyndham1971]

Mark K. is currently shooting a new music video ala" We are the World" but he is utilizing 52 jammin' guitarists on it. Watch for it..

[@michellekaylan6926]

Mark Knopfler is incomparable. His strat sound is so clean, you can never mistake his sound once you hear it.

[@fredericwolf9137]

But on this track he uses a Schecter Red 1980

[@c8Lorraine1]

Brian May also up there with Knopfler

[@K777John]

But more to the point-how come Polo has never heard of Mark or Dire Straits-where has he been hiding…..he’ll be saying he’s never listened to Eric Clapton next…….

[@DevonPatrick16]

Couldn’t agree more! His duos with James Taylor are some of my favorite pieces of music of all time

[@hellsbunniestv584]

I strongly disagree! His strat sound can be super dirty too! Look at Private Investigation, for example!

[@gadgetmansbees]

I was at this concert! I was 17. Absolutely amazing then and still so now. I whistled really loudly at one point during Private Investigations so I'd know it was me, so I'm on the album! 😂. I even met the band afterwards, got their autographs, and had to borrow £5 from Tommy Mandel (2nd keyboard player) because I'd missed the last train and had to get a taxi! Happy days.

[@danasmith9415]

Amazing story

[@davidthompson7817]

Great and good for you being a super fan but still confident enough to ask for fair!

[@TheNotedHero]

You lucky lucky bastard! **turns green**

[@kariy2187]

I really envy You... I saw Mark Knopfler many many years ago, but it was nothing like this.

[@CaptChaos1964]

That is an incredible story!

[@kitcarson72]

Mark Knopfler is a legend. His guitar speaks

[@kayrunhaar7114]

The drummers parents were in the audience for the 1st time, thats why he (and the rest) went all out, one of the best live performances ever.

[@veiregor]

damn thats precious

[@GarethEdwards-oj7qh]

Yep Terry Williams from Wales 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿 👊killing it!!!

[@jamesquinn1773]

Very true

[@liakosvag]

The best ever live performance!!!

[@bigbromiki1]

Quit making bullshit up

[@Paul_Oz]

"I don't care how long this video is, I gotta hear that (guitar solo) again." and that brother, is when you earned my subscription.

[@juliangarnier526]

I have to agree that’s when I signed up as well

[@TeranB.Ainslow]

​@@juliangarnier526 same

[@christinemosley1475]

Mine too.

[@aintlyon304]

Same

[@torenwallace3204]

same

[@Rizla-xg8bd]

I get a little teary eyed when I see someone quite young appreciate good music. Great Reaction. Mark Knopfler is a legend. Hope he gifts us one more tour.

[@posniknelb6114]

Nobody plays a guitar as good as Knopfler

[@bphat68]

One of the greatest things about Knopfler's playing is that even though he can clearly pay a zillion notes, he has a beautiful sense for knowing what NOT to play, and when. Very strategic pauses in the midst of seemingly chaos, letting certain notes just linger...it's like the silence makes you hear the sounds more.

[@brentsegrist246]

His dynamics are so incredible too. Such a light touch. Legend.

[@Emondotcalm]

@bphat68, Yeah not only that but unlike many other guitar "gods" that can shred a zillion notes in one bar his leads are actually memorable! Sure the super shredders are technically amazing but the moment they're done it's over. You can't remember what you just heard. Whereas Mark's guitar lines have a lyrical quality that "tell a story"! Very much like the guitar is "singing" vocal lines that mean something to the song and stick in your head long after the song is over. I also love the way he uses the African style "call and answer"! Sings a line and then "answers" the vocal line with the guitar. He's my all time favorite guitar player for all those reasons!

[@bernardgillett678]

the kids of to day have no idea what they have been starved of musically, ive heard sultan of swing a million times and it gives me chills like the very first time, so many try to cover it , such a classic. God bless you Mark , your the best man!

[@skrillah6259]

”Music is the silence between notes”

[@fatovamingus]

Right on. He leaves so much space..

[@MaraxisArcanist]

I'm a hardcore metal head and even I can admit Mark Knopfler is a generational talent on guitar. Brothers in Arms is my favorite by them.

[@bluewolf5925]

I could not agree more. Check out song for sonny liston by Mark Knopfler if you have not heard it. It is pure genius.

[@marksimpson1991]

Hard not to shed a tear or three listening to that one.

[@biostud666]

Same, if you want great music and take a break from death metal, dire strait is simply put extremely well made rock.

[@davidanon1568]

I have the LP Making Movies downstairs in my record collection, I'm 60 and I bought it in High school in 1980.

[@kelliesalome1115]

@@davidanon1568 I heard Sultans of Swing on the radio and immediately went out and bought the album. Have everything MK has done since

[@nobodysbusiness566]

Back in the day Dire Straights were so huge, they were household names and most peopele loved them. Now I am older, it surprises me how fast the world forgets. It is good to see oyunger people discovering these great old bands.

[@michaelchialastri1088]

Right on

[@CelticSaint]

We of a certain age wil never forget.

[@morgan72359]

This is the best live performance of Sultans of Swing ever. Mark Knopfler was born with a gift, and we're all blessed he shared, and still shares, it with us.

[@joeuser633]

I don’t know about that. Have you ever seen them Live at Wembley with Eric Clapton sitting in on rhythm guitar? Even better.

[@morgan72359]

@@joeuser633 Yes. I thought of this one because it's just their band. I wasn't clear. My bad. Yes to both💟

[@morgan72359]

@@joeuser633 Another thing I've noticed is how Mark changes up the words to Money for Nothing over time to suit the audience, or changes in the world of political correctness. Or maybe his personal opinion changes. See the little........

[@TheGeomsu]

Im so so happy that the young generations are falling in love with Mark Knopfler. He's an absolute guitar genius. I listened to SoS hundreds of times and get goosebumps every time. Keep listening!

[@j.t.3798]

My friend, you've come across Mark knopfler, one of the guitar goats. Incredible band. Great reaction!

[@MrVvulf]

Agreed. I love guitarists who play "clean and technical".

[@fiverx2159]

@@MrVvulfnot just clean and technical. But a unique style and beautiful songs

[@Steve_K2]

After Tommy Emmanuel, the greatest, but I'd hate to choose between the two.

[@Dave5843-d9m]

Mark Freuder Knopfler is not only a great guitarist he is totally self-taught and an amazing composer. Sultans of Swing were a hotel band who clearly don’t care.

[@Dave5843-d9m]

@@Steve_K2. There’s no need to choose. They both have their own place.

[@antonnym214]

Mark Knopfler is acknowledged as one of the greatest guitarists ever, but I STILL think he's underappreciated. This is a good selection, because it was their first big hit, and certainly the first song of theirs I ever heard a few years before Money For Nothing.

[@amd4022]

He doesn’t get recognition he deserves. What I appreciate is that he makes it look so effortless. Mark has complete control over his sound and instrument.

[@max420thc]

MTV,

[@anneschaff4153]

some day Clapton is the greatest, but even he will agree Knopfler is the best of our age

[@MrMambott]

I actually like a few other songs more than ''Sultans Of Swing"" on their first album like ''Six Blade Knife'' "Setting Me Up"" ''Southbound Again''' and my Favourite "" In The Gallery"" LOL I only missed 4 songs that included ''Sultans Of Swing"" in my Favourites

[@tricky2055]

Agreed! Just watch the man play! Fingerpicking the whole time. Trying to play his shit is difficult, and he makes it look so simple. . .

[@cameronabel3527]

This song tells a story about a bunch of hobbyist musicians. Nobody comes to their gigs but they name their band the "Sultans of Swing" anyway. Classic.

[@lastpenny849]

Guitar George is a guy called George Young. He has two younger brothers called Malcolm and Angus. He's an Aussie.

[@truckrboat]

True story kind of: The lyrics were inspired by a performance of a Dixieland jazz band playing in the corner of an almost empty pub in Deptford, South London. At the end of their performance, the lead singer announced their name, the Sultans of Swing; Knopfler found the contrast between the group's dowdy appearance and surroundings and their grandiose name amusing. Mark knopfler is a legendary guitarist for his use of finger picking not strumming which allows him to get those very different sounds

[@dang1086]

tunnel of love is pretty slick too.

[@melissagerber7231]

​@@lastpenny849I may have heard of them. /j

[@Eric2624]

​@@lastpenny849wait, Guitar George was a real person?!?

[@edwardedmundson4356]

It really does my heart good to see a young man like you exploring the music I grew up on. I'm 71. I'm so glad I got to experience the era first hand.

[@minerva_rxqueen]

And i just want to say THANK YOU to whoever requested this song!!! Ive never seen this live version and HOLY CRAP!!! 😍😍😍🔥🔥🔥

[@donnaewe3692]

Ditto 😊 facts! ❤

[@justkiddin84]

Yes and I wish I had been there! Lucky audience!

[@autoscanremaps]

I grew up on this stuff, saw a lot of amazing bands but regret not getting to see Dire Straits. It's never too late to discover new (or old) music, it comes your way when your ready to take it in and not before.

[@rxlxviii]

I don't know if you've ever heard it, but check out the live version of Tunnel Of Love from Wembley. I think you'll enjoy it. While I love this song, I think that live version from Wembley is even better than this song.

[@mathewdoeckel6867]

This concert is called 'Alchemy' and they actually released this whole concert on blu ray, etc., I recommend it!

[@joaquincastellvi7295]

Please notice that he doesnt use a pick to play the guitar, he uses his fingers mixing folk fingerstyle and flamenco with his right hand. Mark Knopfler one of the best guitar players of the world for his innovation and style.

[@gerald2295]

He’s doing multiple notes with his right hand, like most players do with the left .

[@ninochkalove]

Damn straight!!

[@MarkoMakela-kk7qf]

This is some of the most unpreciated thingd about Mrk Knopfler... He uses his fingders only...

[@liviofazi4017]

wow - blows my mind - I can hardly snap my fingers in time

[@FairyRat]

"Chicken picking" I think they call that? Also notice how there is zero overdrive and distortion, pure clean guitars.

[@johnpeterson3386]

Yep. Mark Knopfler is that impossibly rare combination of freakish talent, absurd technical chops, and amazingly tasteful musicianship. And Dire Straits is definitely one of the tightest bands on the planet.

[@Rystefn]

For real. He's not just good, he's good in a way that even other excellent guitarists are not. And the rest of the band are no slouches, either. Absolute legends.

[@teressareeves5856]

Dire Straits, one of those groups that you know the first time you hear them that you've heard genius at work. I will stop whatever I'm doing every time I hear Dire Straits. Just straight up wow

[@masudtv]

Humility as well, a real down to earth guy as well!

[@benghiskahn3673]

He's also incredibly modest.

[@farvista]

I ended up here because...I'm kinda old, and I just wanted to hear "The Sultans of Swing" again. It's one of my most favorite songs of all time. I really enjoyed seeing someone else experiencing this amazing performance for the first time.

[@gpeddino]

Knopfler famously plays with his fingers instead of with a pick, which allows him to fingerpick in a very unique way. An absolute legend of the guitar.

[@blackman5867]

That explains how some of his riffs sound like they're from the bass guitar

[@debrakron9049]

Much like Lindsey Buckingham!

[@margaretflounders8510]

Same as Lindsey!@@debrakron9049

[@mikdavies5027]

@@debrakron9049 . Only better!!!

[@jiros00]

Best guitarists are finger pickers in my opinion. So expressive.

[@QuicknStraight]

Mark Knopfler is one of the greatest guitarists who ever lived. Incredible skill and nothing OTT or flashy, just incredibly lyrical sound from that guitar. It's like an extra voice duetting with Knopfler.

[@kevinfrancis1583]

Going Home man. Going Home might be the greatest piece of guitar playing of all time. Understated and just magical.

[@ibrstellar1080]

He makes look so effortlessly and just floats between riffs.

[@pattricklewis]

I've always loved Mark Knopfler's dueling style between voice and guitar.

[@Scoobydcs]

Marks 1 of very few who can make it sing and talk. Jimmy page and David Gillmore have the same incredibly rare ability

[@huwjennings2695]

I think Mark and his guitar being a duet is a great description.

[@gerdapons5730]

I am a 80 year old woman from the Netherlands,I rock again on Dire Straits..love it!!

[@davidrains3918]

An 80yo rock and roll grandma, I love it!

[@carloakley5367]

Keep rocking ❤

[@juliusfucik4011]

Ik wens je nog 80 gezonde jaren! ❤

[@Marianneduetje]

Ja meid, dat waren tijden, sta nog te swingen met 72 jaar!

[@marinanononsense]

Joh meieieid , k heb ze dit live zien doen in Groningen met mn toenmalige vriendje 😁❤️

[@letitiamcmullin9439]

And that my friend is rock and roll! 70 yr old woman here still rock in

[@IsyAweigh]

I grew up with Dire Straits .. the 70s & 80s were such fantastic decades for music ❤

[@lmc4964]

Alchemy was probably my most played album as a teenager , as close to a movie experience listening to music if that makes sense.

[@tinasjostrand2677]

Absolutely agree. I'm so happy I was there for it. My 36 year old son always asks me why I still mostly listen to 70s and 80s music when there is "so much good, new music". HA! This. This is why.

[@coaulsi]

i cant process the info that the guy in his obv 30s dont know about dire strats, and a top10 songs ever, alongside smoke on the water, by deep purple, etc, etc, its very hard to pick just 10 rock songs, let alone all modern music, but thgese are the cult songs

[@chrisappert2184]

The music was amazing back then. I loved it then and still do.

[@mauricestanley5763]

Me too

[@permie46]

One of the world's best guitarists-Mark Knoffler. Dire Straits

[@T-bone1950]

He is one of the few musicians I know of who does not use a guitar pick, only his thumb and fingers. This probably explains his phenomenal speed. I miss this group.

[@maruka1716]

The guy in red with the headband is Mark Knopfler. He's 34 years old in this video. He's 74 years old now, in April 2024, and bald as an egg, but he's got a new album out that's currently #3 on the U.K. album charts. Right behind Beyonce. He did 6 studio albums with Dire Straits from the late 70s to the early 90s, and 10 solo albums since. Also collaborations and film scores and guest appearances with other artists. He played lead guitar for Bob Dylan, wrote a song for Tina Turner, and he even wrote the walk-out music for the professional soccer team in his home town of Newcastle, England. And apparently he's got a TV show coming out in Britain where he interviews music legends. Not sure if we'll get to see it here in the States.

[@jncg2311]

Great comment, and much appreciated, I didn't know he's making a telly show, I'll look forward to that.

[@Mooniicky]

​@@jncg2311on sky arts with Brian Johnson from AC/DC

[@michelemercier2286]

He also composed the soundtrack for the movie "The Princess Bride".

[@elaines5750]

The great thing about this group is each one is a consummate musician. Not just banging or screaming. Actually making amazing, legitimate music. And complementing each other so well.

[@capncrunch9053]

Mark Knopfler is a legend. This song was recorded in 1978. That's right, this song broke 46 years ago and this concert was probably early 80s. Not a single autotune device was harmed in the making of this video. edit: And yes, you know this band. Everybody knows this band, they just don't know they know this band. Remember Money for Nothing? kzbin.info/www/bejne/kHSUgZeppdWWnpY

[@luckyspurs]

It's wild that they only formed in 1977, while living in a council house in Deptford in their late 20s.

[@mattking5936]

Mark Knofler rarely gets mentioned when people talk about guitarists. For me he is as good as anyone at what he does and other people can't play the way he does.

[@justkiddin84]

AND he is singing!

[@wthiem11]

I'd also suggest Polo to check out J.J. Cale who's sound certainly seems to have influenced Mark Knopfler. I'd like to hear a reaction on "Magnolia" from the album "Naturally".

[@mojomusica.0169]

What's even more amazing is that he's naturally left handed but taught himself righty.

[@ekstradycja]

Are you joking? MK is always highlighted as one of the greatest and unique ones, very influential with his own sound instantly recognised. Plus he's an amazing songwriter and singer as well

[@DornishVintage]

I know. I feel the same way about this guy called Frank Zappa.

[@johnabetker]

Mark Knopfler is an all-time great/legend guitarist. Words can't describe how he moves your soul.

[@lhilare]

The Sultans of Swing is the name of a group they're describing that they saw in a small club. Mark Knopfler wears a headband because he sweats too much; when he plays it gets in his eyes. I love how much the group is enjoying playing this. Having a good time while entertaining the rest of us. Too cool!

[@staceleigh9066]

I’m okay with the headband. Kinda became his trademark.

[@GraupeLie]

"That guitar is crazy" - YES! That's Mark Knopfler, undoubtedly one of the best guitarists out there - and he makes it look so effortless, as if it was just nothing at all.

[@JBAKER97]

I had a friend that worked with me everyday. He played the trumpet. This song used to come on the radio and I’d say, “ Don’t wanna hear no trumpet playing band.” Guess you had to be there. 😂

[@bju194422]

😂

[@cherylklaver7233]

Naaa...we get it 😊

[@shawnpriest2119]

Welcome to light, mate. Been one of my faves since the late 70s. Great body of work but Brothers In Arms is their best album. Their sound defies classification.

[@JBAKER97]

@republicoftexas3261 no it was David Peace

[@nurofen3940]

The whole Brothers in Arms album is iconic. I could listen everyday and never be bored.

[@timsmethurst3508]

The title track had me, even in my teens

[@uliwehner]

@@timsmethurst3508 same here. i did listen to this album every day for years.

[@redsidebiker]

But is the title track the best song? To me,not. "The Man's too Strong" is the best track on "BiA". BTW, I loast friends in The Falklands

[@dkmi]

@@redsidebiker that track is wonderful. It's a really diverse album. The tracks don't all sound alike. "Ride Across The River" has always been one of my favorite chill songs. The acoustic guitar on "The Man's Too Strong" jumps out of the speakers. The whole album sounds amazing and makes me glad that I have a fantastic sound system.

[@jbeargrr]

Me too, I love the whole album. All the Dire Straits stuff is incredible, and Knopfler's just magical. The whole band is magical.

[@sandraminacantantedefolklo6907]

This version and the musicians are absolutely awesome. I have never heard anything better than this performance. Out of this world no doubt.

[@carolcampbell2041]

I am 71 years old. Whenever I have a home project...like painting a room.... I put on Dire Straits. Listening to Mark Knofler singing Sultans of Swing makes me feel like I can do anthing! Project done. Best guitarist ever.

[@dominikblazic555]

Haha me too! Cheers brother!😁

[@sistermarycatherine5388]

I love this so MUCH!!!❤❤❤

[@ozymandiastheking2139]

The drummer absolutely fucking killed it!!!

[@HowardHunt-dw1em]

When he had time off Terry Williams still played for his local town pub band whilst Dire Straights were still rocking stadiums. Mark of the man.

[@cliffbetton8893]

The band was Dire Straits and they originated in the North East of England; same place as Sting. This was their first single and it was written by Mark Knopfler, the lead guitar player and singer. He was in London and one wet evening in Deptford, heard a band playing in a pub, so he went in and the song is about that band, the Sultans of Swing, and what it is like being a semi-pro band doing gigs in pubs and clubs at the weekends. The same way that The Beatles, The Rolling Stones and all the great British bands started out. No X-Factor, no XX had Got Talent, no Auto-Tune, no false anything. Just people who can play, have got the drive to go and play to half a dozen people on a wet Friday night, and earn their trade. IF you like this (and who wouldn't) try their Live Aid Set, where they play just 2 songs, this one, and Money for Nothing (with Sting), another song that was written by Mark after hearing two workers talking in a cafe. Other bands to look at live are: The Who (anything but Who Are You? and Baba O'Riley in particular; Pink Floyd (the whole Pulse album, recorded live at Earl's Court; Jethro Tull, live at Madison Square Garden (try Thick as a Brick); Cream, live at the Royal Albert Hall (whole concert is breathtaking and in particular, watch the 72 year old Ginger Baker on drums). If you ever visit the UK, use the Underground and check out the musicians who play there; they have to pass an audition to get a licence to perform and they are all good - some are breathtaking.

[@clarenancy77]

Queen - Somebody to Love live version is also worth watching.

[@yoursoulknows6444]

Excellent suggestions - Pulse, Pink Floyd live at Earl's Court and Jethro Tull omg! Ian is incredible! Love both bands!! Haven't seen Cream live at the Royal Albert Hall, going to check that one out for sure!! Thanks for your comment, you're so right!

[@jackori6685]

Well said!

[@tuguybear930]

Same place as Sting? And the Shadows, The Animals,

[@nirfz]

If you ever listen to the Intro of "Money for nothing" by the Dire Straits you can hear Sting. He was there when they recorded it and is the one doing the "I want my MTV" part.

[@MythicalMystic]

US reactors tend to be obsessed with 'studio version' songs but you have to bear in mind that virtually anyone can sound good on a studio version after being produced to death with the mixing desks etc, the true worth of any band is live where there is nowhere to hide.

[@RadeticDaniel]

Same thing with theatre and cinema actors, it's just slightly different skill sets and team sizes. If you think of a studio version like an orchestra working in layers it males sense. Sometimes a musician os good enough to get the spotlight and play solo, usually the Orchestra works together to improve quality while covering for each other's slips 😅

[@cherylwoodward]

This song just came out of nowhere. It was so distinctive, we all stood up and recognized it for its uniqueness. It broke through all the noise in the late 70s. It was special. Mark Knopfler is still creating terrific music today.

[@JeanetteFaith]

No. I think he died.

[@jaapbruijn1300]

YESSSS

[@jaapbruijn1300]

@@JeanetteFaithno he didn‘t

[@JeanetteFaith]

@@jaapbruijn1300Yes, I just looked it up. He's still alive. I thought I read that he died.

[@leesilverness4296]

I never get tired of watching this performance. The talent is off the scale.

[@wesleyashton9813]

My dad sat me down when I was 11 and put headphones on me and played his Direstraits album, he said you will enjoy this and sat back with a smile as he watched me experience their sound for the first time. What a gift for both me and him as he got to share and educate me on something so spectacular.

[@deborahdawes6975]

Shit! You had the coolest dad ever!

[@ChrisParrett-qo4sx]

@@deborahdawes6975 I did something similar, but reversing the generations. My late father in law was a classical fan, and was totally dismissive of rock music as being shallow, trivial, and having no real musical quality… so I sat him down with Zappa's 'Son of Mr Green Genes' (a rock instrumental that's so well structured and innovative it changed his mind). I then introduced him to Mark Knopfler's music.

[@jeanettemacdonald1744]

In my 80's here... and I experienced one of the musical thrills of a lifetime when I was at their show in Moncton, NB Canada!! Mark Knopfler!!! The brilliance!!!

[@janetf23]

A Dire Straits epiphany is always fun to watch❤‍🔥

[@alisontunny9362]

I’m starting to appreciate what wonderful musicians we had in my day ( 72 years now). My mother dismissed it and said nobody would ever listen to it in the future. She was also wrong about our marriage. She said it would last 6 months. It’s 60 years now and still going strong! There are no words to describe Dire Straits except brilliant!

[@gretchenboyd7186]

Baby boomer here. So fortunate have grown up with this music. Beautiful reaction!!! Thank you 👍

[@MarkRoman-d7b]

Yup!

[@segueoyuri]

not a boomer here, but I grew up with these too. When people tell me music nowadays gets close to this I just laugh.

[@VickiS-7080]

Let's hope this never gets lost or forgotten❤

[@acmcbride-olson9320]

Gen X here. Dire Straits is incredible. Music then was not manufactured by synthesizer or computer. It was a product of oneness, artist with instrument, mixed with freaking magic.

[@PatriciaHennessey-om8zb]

Proud to be British 🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧

[@MsBabydoll62]

Me too. The very best music came from England.

[@lenpepe6208]

After 40+ years of knowing this band’s musical genius I’m so stoked to see the next generations learning about it and loving it! These guys had years of paying their dues before reaching this status! Masters of the craft for sure!

[@sheridenney7405]

Me too!

[@JAshton1973]

Polo "That guitar is crazy". Me : "wait for it......." Keep in mind, this song and Dire Straights height of popularity was during the middle part of the 80's. When synth music and pop ruled MTV and radio. Here comes this little blues rock band with a unique sound and excellent musicians turning out hits that people still listen to 40 years later. Mark is one of the best guitar players with his own unique style. Glad you like the track.

[@2BestPonies]

Yes! I kept thinking, "yes, but just wait. ..." every time he paused the track! 😅

[@kbjcda]

@@2BestPonies Haha I did the same thing

[@tgsgardenmaintenance4627]

Sultans of swing is possibly the greatest live performance ever! So great to see the younger generation appreciate true musicians without autotune !

[@vanessadaiderlopez7725]

Sin lugar a dudas esta es la mejor canción hecha en la historia

[@rapsack7058]

Hmmmggmhmmm NO, Its Queens Live at The Live Aid Concert...But it is one of best life performances ever that for sure.

[@liquidminds]

while my guitar gently weeps, in the tribute version with Prince, Tom Petty, Jeff Lynne and Steve Winwood comes pretty close. But that only shows how many talented people it takes to get to this level.

[@littlemouse7066]

They're great but in my opinion not the greatest live performance ever you should watch Nightwish live at Wacken 2013 and you would understand why I'm saying this.

[@tomconnolly7420]

I with you ❤❤❤

[@Glenn-y7z]

Mark's smiles at different time during this song, says it all. He love's the music that they're making, he's one with his guitar, the band was so damned tight. Such a fridge awesome performance.

[@kittencreates2785]

People have told me to stop listening to my "old" music...I tell them not a chance. I just found you tonight & it's 4am & I have to try to sleep soon. Except that I'm 71 and retired & I can sleep whenever! I absolutely LOVE that you're discovering the music I grew up with.

[@gbormann71]

Heh, that's like asking you to stop being you.

[@kittencreates2785]

@@gbormann71 Yeah... never gonna happen.

[@laswan5]

We grew up with the best music. Born in 1952 I'll be 72 this August.

[@michaelchialastri1088]

I'm an old dude and I love your reaction to this amazing group!

[@kittencreates2785]

@@michaelchialastri1088 I'm an old Hippie Chick 😂

[@rickthreebears184]

I saw this performance live and when they were done, it was all I could to do to just hang on to the chair in front of me and laugh quietly. I realized I was in the presence of greatness.

[@garyneilson3075]

So COOL!!! Thanks for sharing.....

[@bahalama]

When was this version performed? Please tell me where to find it!

[@lokephoenix1039]

I wasn’t born when this happened but I always love hearing stories from this Alchemy festival, this imo is the most legendary live performance of a song EVER

[@jacquesb8927]

So jealous! I only have the CD & DVD.

[@johnmason5626]

You were VERY LUCKY to witness that

[@Blue_ormy]

I am 24 years old. I stand by saying that the music of Dire Straits takes me to a place no other music does. Technically and soulfully perfect. Goosebump music

[@markar6395]

Youve got it man. So good

[@baddnurse5443]

❤

[@Deus_Ubique]

great taste for a such young guy ! mark nails it when it comes to music !

[@pamstuckey8349]

Since you're younger I'm hoping you also know Steely Dan. They don't get the same media attention I think but really everyone needs to know them

[@bunchlead]

Great music never dies as it's timeless.

[@VroodenTheGreat]

Best rock and roll song ever recorded, in my opinion.

[@foxmulder8139]

The drummer goes sooooo hard on this version! Knopfler is a guitar GOD and an amazing lyrical storyteller

[@dopiaza2006]

Can you believe they got rid of him for Brother In Arms album? The only part he plays on that is the intro to Money for Nothing.

[@bjmcmahon722]

​@@dopiaza2006true....but Mark still took Terry on that World Tour....

[@dopiaza2006]

@@bjmcmahon722 Understandable!

[@Weareeverything2023]

Terry probably put something extra into his performance that night, his dad was in the audience for the first ever time seeing him play. You know he is good when people talk more about the drummer than even Knopflers amazing guitar playing. True world class live performance. You can see Knopflers and the rest of the band seeing the effect Terry was having that night, great band having a great time.

[@stevhill]

“If you don’t like this, I’m glad I wasn’t born with your ears,” is the best reaction music of this quality could possibly have. Only fortunate enough to have seen them live once, and it wasn’t this gig, but I will never forget it.

[@kierstenridgway4634]

I'm going to borrow that line! ❤️✌️

[@jimwhite3719]

Damn...that quote was one fine, spot on statement right there...👍👍

[@Jack-D-Ripper]

Mark Knopfler is a stupendously amazing guitarist. He's so laid-back but intricately fast too! Telegraph Road and Brother's In Arms are very moving too. This British lads are excellent.

[@christinestanding]

you forgot Latest Trick !!!

[@lazarlazarov7857]

Not only Mark, the whole band are fckng great musicians..

[@UpChuckLiberals]

Pure dedication and a hell of a lot of practice,. His interviews are worth every second, he's humble as all get out,. Rolling Stone has him as one of the top 10 guitarists.

[@emmanuela7528]

Man, Telegraph Road is so good 😅

[@michaelsimpson4400]

Absolutely smashing a guitar solo whilst looking like he is out on a Sunday walk

[@AllGoodNamesAreTaken_]

"The fact that they can pull this off live" sums it upperfectly, Sir, thank you.

[@TheSpaghetti64]

One of the greatest guitar masters of all time.

[@marksimpson1991]

A true legendary band. Set all kinds of records for consecutive night sold out concerts around the world. And then just when they were on top of the world Mark Knopfler called it quits and went solo. A tremendous catalog and very influential. "Alchemy", their live album, is one of the very best live albums ever. Too many songs to even think of what to suggest next.

[@kjaaroe196]

Every time you turn and look into the camera and smile, I smile back, knowing that we 2 strangers are enjoying a beautiful sound and performance.

[@lorriesea]

They rule over their corner of sound and rhythm, earning the title ‘Sultans of Swing’ not through wealth or fame, but through their devotion to a craft they silently master - a metaphor for the purity of artistic pursuit.

[@imagseer]

This is what happens when artists with real musical talent are on fire. Different to the original, but perfection live!

[@jroskott]

One of the best songs ever. The sound he gets, the speed, the melody, it is just stunning. And did we mention the drummer?

[@carlosnorris352]

Terry Williams

[@anyone4tennis50320]

I've had the pleasure of hearing this track for the last 45 years. A legendary story: A group called Steely Dan often brought in guest guitarists for their albums and they were famously tough critics. They would have their guests redo the solo time after time until they thought it was good enough. Mark Knopfler came in, played his solo and they said "Well, that's fine. Thank you very much". Such a genius.

[@TheInsecureChef]

Greetings. Old guy (73) from Brooklyn here. Rock drummer from the late 60s (garage band, played New York city clubs, bars, etc.). you're a young guy and enjoy your youth, but you did indeed miss the golden age of rock-and-roll. Jimmy Hendrix, Cream, The Doors, The Dead (Grateful Dead), Beatles, Rolling Stones, Janice (Joplin), Pink Floyd. The list goes on. Many of whom I got to see live. your analysis of this incredible presentation is right on target. Some quick research and you'll see that Mark Knopfler is considered one of the best, if not the best, guitarist of the era. Check out Dire Straits (the band name you didn't know :), song, Brothers In Arms, for a completely different and amazing piece of work with more of Knopfler's amazing guitar work. As you noted, the drumming is superb and fast and clean as any ever recorded. I was a quick handed rock drummer who was considered pretty damn good, but i could never approach his speed combinations, nor his stamina (for that matter). his work is an almost endless string of fills, yet maintains the needed and necessary underlining drumming, as he plays in sync with the bass. The drummer, Terry Williams, also had some personal motivation in this performance, as his father was in the audience and seeing his son play in front of a live audience for the first time! And by all means check out dire Straits performance of Telegraph road. And Money for nothing will put a smile on your face as well. And one last item: if you really want to hear music from a completely different part of the universe, by all means, check out he live performance of the movie sound track, The Good, The Bad, and the Ugly as performed by the Danish national Symphony Orchestra. If you have never heard a FULL orchestra completely unwound, check this out! And, it wouldn't hurt to Google the plot of the movie of the same name. It will help raise you level of appreciation of this out-of-this-world performance. Great show. Great analysis. Great reaction. Stop by my place a The Insecure Chef (@TheInsecureChef) if you get hungry :) Regards.

[@camannwordsmith]

I've heard this song a thousand times, but I've never seen this version. That drummer...my GODS. Absolutely extraordinary.

[@Ateesh6782]

same here

[@jonathanbarton1062]

Terry Williams

[@MrsMacLover]

drummer is fire!

[@shegocrazy]

He actually did virtually nothing on Brothers in Arms because he didn't jell with the songs (or something like that) but he did tour with them to promote that album.

[@cdburner2548]

Mark Knopfler plays what is called the "Tulsa sound" along with other artists like Eric Clapton, J.J. Cale & Leon Russell. It's a mix of blues, rock, country & soul, and in my book some of the greatest music ever created.

[@TheDivayenta]

And a bit of Django thrown in for good measure. ❤

[@ChrisParrett-qo4sx]

@@TheDivayenta I'm so glad someone acknowledges Django Reinhardt… Different genre, different era, but so many guitarists from the sixties, seventies, eighties, and onward to today have benefited from techniques he developed working with the amazing Stephane Grappelli.

[@davidhart6291]

This might be the greatest live performance of a song ever. Or at least right up there among the best.

[@helenabeanor]

Dire Straits and Mark Knopfler are insane, all their performances. If you loved Sultans of Swing, check also Tunnel of Love and Brothers in Arms live...it's otherwordly as well. Kudos for all the band in this song, specially Mark in the guitar and Terry Williams in the drums

[@alexhusko]

“If you don’t like this, I don’t know what your hearing “. The wisest words one could say about this song!

[@bhelliom3]

Coming from someone who’s been watching reactions for like 3 years now, I would much rather someone pause the song and geek out, rewind, replay, etc. for half an hour than someone sit in silence for the entire song and say “thanks for watching with me”… and that’s the whole reaction. There are plenty like that out there, even if you don’t have anything but enthusiasm to contribute it’s still great to watch someone enjoy something I love.

[@franciet99]

AGREED!🖕

[@poloreacts27]

I just did a poll on this in my community section. You can vote there. Oh, and thank for watching

[@jayderrett7362]

I was there on that night at Hammy Odeon. My first ever gig as a 15 year old, and still the greatest gig I've ever been to. Absolutely electrifying, all night long.

[@Paintstucco]

Seriously? Tell me more about it!

[@joelmesh9127]

Congrats sir, you have just heard one of the best guitarist of all time. Complete respect :o)

[@MyRosie2007]

I am 70. You are being introduced to the best and brightest musicians of the 70's/80's!!! It is hard to listen and not think of what that music was like compared to today!

[@irenestubbings7856]

When Mark Knoffler and the band went to see a band in a pub, they were called The Sultans of Swing. So this is the song he wrote about that evening. Here in the UK most bands from the 70's and onwards started their careers in pubs and bars. This is an amazing song and the band are so tight you would never believe it was live. Thanks for reveiwing it.

[@jflores6628]

Wow! Thanks for that information. I always love to hear the back story stuff! Love MK and the band!

[@irenestubbings7856]

@@jflores6628 Your welcome!

[@GreggOliverBass]

EXACTLY - SO many great guitar players, and Mark Knopfler should be recognized and never forgotten.

[@ChristineKane-on8bf]

The best thing about music you love is watching someone fall in love with it in front of your eyes! Like hearing it for the first time! 😁

[@marthawoodworth]

Imagine having a set that is so iconic, so brilliant, so addictive, that it lasts down the ages, constantly drawing new fans! I'm addicted to it.

[@annettemunnich3533]

About 40 YEARS of loving this song. Never get tired of it!!! Sultan is another word for KING ❤

[@Gwyhir]

I am so pleased that you enjoyed this so much. These guys are from my neck of the woods..THE NORTH OF ENGLAND . Mark Knopfler has to be the best guitarist in the world. Ive seen him play live ta few times and this was my music at that time. There is some special magic going in the this particular concert.

[@troyturton8197]

Yeah, it's like a live version of Working Man by Rush in Cleveland I saw a week or 2 ago. They started it out with a slow, Reggae beat, then to the way it always sounds then went NUTS, on of the most intense speeding up of any song by any band I ever heard. And they were like in their early 50s at the time and it was just WOW, how can they do it this fast, yet keep it clear and stay in timing the way they did. I guess because that is always how RUSH was. With their stop, change rhythm style they were known for. Geddy was jamming on bass as if he was the lead guitarist. And Alex on guitar even harder and faster. I always figured Neil could manage it. But the entire reason they did it? Was because of how enthusiastic the crowd was. I always tell people that when they go see a band? Give them your own best performance as well. Because they will love and appreciate it so much. they will respond in kind with their best performance. It must have been a very good crowd this day!

[@greg967]

One of my favorite songs ever... And while i cannot pick a "best guitarist"... this guy is tied with about 9 others as "best"... I.E. he did what was needed perfectly to make this (and other) songs the best they could possibly be.

[@jimmcp6877]

How amazing! To hear that genre and think THE NORTH OF ENGLAND. I Love It All. Music is Boundless!

[@markinohio1]

Very underrated for sure

[@annanardo2358]

He left earth all right...😄. Dire Straights are on a whole new planet ....Knopfler is a real maniac on that guitar, a real virtuoso master...and the drummer, I'm speechless, this rhythm is super fast. Knopfler is a guitar God !! Yeah, that guitar is crazy unbelievable !!😮😮😮😮

[@williamjones6031]

The studio version of this is one of the best songs for cruising. It's nice that you enjoyed it so much.🤗

[@drsus0]

absolutely... the whole album is one my favorite road trip jams

[@roberteltze4850]

I agree that the studio version is much better. It's hard to make out the words at times in the live version even though I know them well. Part of what makes this song amazing is the combination of the amazing guitar playing and the images created by the lyrics. It loses a lot when they lyrics aren't sung clearly.

[@abruemmer77]

tbh all of dire straits is great for cruising

[@drsus0]

@@abruemmer77 ​​⁠100% and even some of his first solo stuff too.. but this album especially , maybe because it’s the first one I heard

[@bjb123ch]

Glad you have discovered Dire Straits. Not only are they all terrific musicians, not only is Mark Knopfler the best guitarists ever, and can really make that thing talk; but you will find that all their songs tell a story, so the lyrics are equally as important as the music. Whether it's this song about a group they saw playing, or Money for Nothing about an overheard conversation in an appliance store, the growth of a town in Telegraph Road or the mapping of America in Sailing to Philadelphia..its a journey you're going to enjoy!

[@georgesheffield1580]

Mark taught at university for a number of years before this ,lectured on writing . Now has 3 honary Doctors degrees of music .

[@misfitstranger]

It's so cool watching Terry Williams having such a genuinely good time beating the living crap out of those drums. The dude's on another planet!! Never get tired of watching this. Never.

[@hugoortega4548]

My son was 2 years old when he heard Dire Straits and fell in love with the drumming of Terry Williams. Just the start of his own gift of being a drummer. Thanks for your reaction.

[@tjrivers]

Of course, Knopfler…And those drums! Mark has a way of expressing EVERY SINGLE WORD in his guitar…it’s amazing. This whole song is excellence personified. I wore out two albums playing their magical music…so glad you are loving this too! We loved this for decades!