Dire Straits, Brothers in Arms - A Classical Musician’s First Listen and Reaction

[@VirginRock]

Hi everyone! Please drop under this comment your questions ONLY! I will do my best to answer them all!

[@helenespaulding7562]

Now that you’ve reviewed eight songs that are included under the umbrella of the “Rock” genre, do you have a better idea of how huge and varied that genre really is? What you have to look forward to? Are you surprised by how good allot of these songs are? 😏😁 THANKYOU for all your time…and Vlad’s time!

[@carebear224]

Are there any songs you have reacted to that you now listen to just for enjoyment? Have any of these made your playlists?

[@philshorten3221]

Copying? Have you done a comparison between Sir Andrew Loyd Webbers - Phantom of the Opera (main riff) Vs the older Echoes by Pink Floyd (see Echoes Part 1- Live at Pompeii NOT the album track simply because the album track is the entire Side 2 of the album Meddle with an extended "sound scape" section whereas Live at Pompeii actually has No Audience, it's split into two parts, with part 1 containing the main riff and most of the lyrics etc) Or any other famous apparent rip off such as :- Led Zeppelin - Dazed and Confused Vs the older Jake Holmes - Dazed and Confused What do you think about apparent "borrowing" of musical themes is it plagiarism or is it just inevitable that musicians will write identical pieces? Does it happen in classical music or is this a "pop" or "rock" issue where there are many more artists writing many more short pieces?

[@philshorten3221]

Mark Knopfler probably one of the best examples of how to play a dead clean Strat is Dire Straights Alchemy Tour - "Sultans of Swing"..... No massive distortion or stacked peddle effects means there's simply no where to hide,...... the boy can play! 😂

[@wandajames143]

Do you only listen to the "safe" stuff or are you more adventurous into songs that are more controversial?

[@Rockhopper1]

I am a veteran and I can't listen to this without being in tears, it speaks to me, it's one song that if played in a bar all the veterans stop talking and go quiet, and they cry openly. It's one of the most beautiful pieces of music ever written. Its played at the National Memorial Aboretum in the UK when over a thousand veterans on bikes arrive, and the place just goes quiet. Thank you for being kind and considerate listening to this, I appreciate it,

[@MarkloopRAF]

Me too, this and When September Ends by Green Day. Luckily no-one's played these two on the parades I've been on. I'd be a blubbering idiot!!

[@grahamlaidlaw7164]

im holding back tears noo, this was the first ever album i bought with my pocket money. i must have been about seven years old and my older brother had just joined the royal navy, not long after the falklands war. also my primary school was closed the same year and my class done a rendition of this song . much respect from scotland

[@davidsmith7653]

Thank you for your service sir.

[@OoavastoO]

It really is a very powerful and moving song. It gets played on my local radio station here in east coast Canada every Remembrance Day (Nov 11). It holds a very special place in my heart as, 1) Dire Straits has been my all-time favourite band since I was a pre-teen and this album has been one of my most cherished Christmas gifts. And 2), the lyrics and message of the song have always been special to me as I’ve had many members of my extended family, past and present, who have served and fought in the military. But it really hits home after completing 21 years of service myself in the Royal Canadian Navy. To me, a song that continues to hold such meaning and relevance, (maybe even more so today), makes it a true masterpiece. Thank you for your service 🫡 from a retired RCN sailor 🇨🇦

[@ghandimauler]

It's heart rending. It is a great composition and the playing was world class. If one can't feel the sadness, one must be dead inside. I also find meaning in 'If I Don't Make It Back' by Tracy Lawrence. It isn't as deep in terms of the power of the instrumental parts, but there's a point there where the singer tries to introduce a good guy to the widow and it's been two years... and she's not ready. It speaks to the depth and longevity of grieving and how hard it can be to move on (a stuck state perhaps, happens not uncommonly in trauma).

[@eddouglas7316]

Mark's voice tells the story. The guitar expresses the pain.

[@user-vv9zo4sc4k]

I couldn’t of said that better my self , this piece brings tears to my eyes makes remember all the guys who died giving us freedom 🇬🇧

[@goldcd]

@@user-vv9zo4sc4k I see it being wider than that. Could be any soldier, in any conflict, on any side. Not explicitly anti-war - but this is the voice of one person, on one side, in one conflict. Stepping back you can feel that everything you see on the news, is actually thousands upon thousands of people singing this in chorus.

[@derbrandmeister4660]

Reminds me on my grandfather who could not talk about the war often and if he did, he was calm and he became very describing but not emotional. The guitar sounds like pure emotions. Like it's expressing something what he could not say.

[@addickkelders2265]

I think Mark is just a better guitarist than a singer.

[@Moviefan01able]

@ed douglas: I feel the same way! Best wishes for you and your loved ones! Greetings from Frank, Germany.

[@jonwebb5241]

I am an army vet, raised in a military family. This touches me deeply, bringing me to tears. I appreciate this classical musician hearing so much and bringing us along.

[@jacquesdrouin5458]

This is Mark Knopfler, a truly amazing songwriter and guitarist. Check out "Remembrance Day", and "Dream of the Drowned Submariner".

[@ivormiler8163]

It's one of the best songs ever written and sang by a genius

[@dionoconnell8973]

Good job he picked up the guitar else hed av had to carry on fitting microwave ovens, custom kitchen deliveries🤪

[@babs3652]

Agree! Absolutely. ❤❤❤

[@geoffgeach4671]

SUPERB.

[@fidge54]

Sung

[@paulryan2128]

​@@fidge54 Sing, sang, sung

[@dpHammer64]

Absolutely,one of the greatest songs ever written. Utterly genius.

[@JustLovingLifeDude]

I whole-heartedly agree with this statement. It is at the top.

[@yourkiwimate]

i recall first hearing it, who played it to me and how i felt, a masterpiece

[@MrIndisponente]

The brilliance in this song is the lack of unnecessary notes. Every guitar note has meaning and empowers this song.

[@CharlieMcowan]

Couldn't agree more. A good - or in this case, exceptional- guitarist makes every note count Knofler is a master of that.

[@timothywolfe3891]

Very well said.

[@ruddle17]

@@CharlieMcowan yup, he learnt that from, among others, the example of the late great Les Paul virtuoso Peter Green (whose Les Paul was bought by Gary Moore and is now owned by Kirk Hammett).

[@letsgomets002]

Les Paul...played many notes could be considered our first shredder...not a good comparison ​@@ruddle17

[@garylane6227]

Mark Knopfler is one of the greatest guitar players ever. He can create so much emotion with his guitar is it almost unbelievable.

[@Ozvideo1959]

Agreed, and he never had a guitar lesson, he just learn by listening to music and trying to try to play it himself.

[@SISU889]

@Boxing4K Yes and Chris Rea was exactly the same . Both have the same finger picking style too ! Both very expressive guitarists, only Chris is a slide Man .

[@ColinWatters]

I saw a program where he discussed his music and guitars. Watch if you get chance.

[@ColinWatters]

He has a great way of blending one note into another I love. Making it sing is a great expression.

[@davidfeltz8697]

Is amazing.

[@Gammalgubbe01]

As a veteran….. who misses a lot of good fellows….. It’s a masterpiece…. One of the biggest in the last 50 years. Thanks for your comments because it makes me love this song even more. Big hug from Sweden

[@williammcleod8594]

@@fidru As a US Vet.. you are showing total disrespect.

[@fidru]

@@williammcleod8594 didn't ment to. I was just curious because sweden is one of the most neutral countries in the world and was hardly involved in conflicts (they lost a handful soldiers in Afghanistan though) so maybe the guy is of very old age or is unlucky to coincidentally know every Swedish KIA of the last decades. (or served in a different army and just happen to live in sweden now. but than the info that he is in sweden is misleading) but you are right it is a little disrespectfull and probably not by business to ask those questions.

[@PrebenEllehede]

@@fidruall of them

[@black-and-light]

Brother, you are totally right. Merry christmas

[@pmonkeygeezer6212]

​@@fidruYou are totally right. Most "veterans" today in the US fought in other people's lands. They were not wars about defence, they were wars about money, control, or resources. They should not be proud of being veterans of a war about politics and resources. They should be ashamed. Shame on these greedy warmongers.

[@markdavids2511]

This song is a masterpiece & makes hard men cry.

[@AretaicGames]

I would not care to know anyone who didn't at least get a hard lump in the throat listening to this song.

[@ericadams3428]

It makes everybody cry. If they didn't they wouldn't be human

[@chrissmith6022]

One of the most beautiful songs ever written. Period.

[@nsmith1586]

same

[@KimBioni]

indeed

[@cnesloc8575]

Fascinating to see how talented some people are...

[@cossera]

And a perfect production/recording...

[@iliasmastoris529]

I cry every time I hear it. Since I was a teenager. I am 57 now.

[@wasp6594]

Written during the 1982 Falklands War, "Brothers in Arms" deals with the senselessness of war. In 2007, the 25th anniversary of the war, Knopfler recorded a new version of the song at Abbey Road Studios to raise funds for British veterans who he said "are still suffering from the effects of that conflict." The seas shown in the video are depictions of the South Atlantic and the mountains are the ones in the Falklands, which saw some of thw fiercest battles.

[@viviancunssuarez]

And the argentinian soldiers were send to a war without equipment. Just a dictator that wanted to build fame. They have a very hight rate of sui cide. 😢

[@donaldcook3112]

@@viviancunssuarez. . . As very often , Vivian , “ History repeats itself “… NO , it does not . The entirety of the male ego does . This , this inability to agree to live within ‘ our ‘ border’s. And just do the best for all therein without the ‘ drive ‘ or whatever ‘it‘ may be described as that is centred in ‘ theft ‘, ‘ violence ‘ and ‘ desecration ‘ on inter-national scale’s and level’s . And so much worse . All and ONLY caused by the ego’s of a certain sort of … ‘ men ‘. Greetings from the U.K. A l l b e w e l l .

[@artysanmobile]

Thank you for that revelation, wasp. I’ve been deep in love with this song from the very first hearing and welcome the backstory from the composer. I’ve cried a river listening to this masterpiece.

[@indrid]

@@artysanmobile The lyrics are about the POV of a soldier dying and telling his fellow soldiers to leave him, but they decide to stay with him.

[@neontime]

The song is still one of the most requested on the Falklands' local radio station, so much so that its an unofficial national anthem.

[@viktoryurchenko756]

Thank you from Ukraine. Can't listen to this song without tears now. It excavates so much inside pain however I try to block or hide it.

[@alexpewpew69]

I was thinking about the terrible situation you guys in Ukraine have while listening. Europe is with you. The respect we feel is enormous. 🇬🇧🇺🇦

[@sifridbassoon]

😪

[@williamwebster4285]

Sorry about the spelling, Slava UKRAINE.

[@MSA-uj7cp]

slava Ukraine, from Sri Lanka

[@colinhowarth3070]

Keep going my friend x

[@edwardrutledge2765]

Mark Knopfler is rock royalty, not the flamboyant, hyperkinetic, overreaching sort, rather the thoughtful, controlled, wonderfully talented musician kind. His canon is worth a deeper dive.

[@purpurina5663]

Couldn't agree more. Songs like Tunnel of Love or Telegraph Road (in concert) are full of nuance and layers -something a classically trained musician would appreciate.

[@nz3058]

That's a great description spot on. Truly one of the greatest musicians and song writers In the rock era.

[@magnusstahlberg4757]

@@purpurina5663 telegraph road lyrics contain some heavy messaging that all will become VERY aware of soon.

[@Irisarc1]

He is a god. Period. When I hear someone talking about who the guitar greats are, if Knopfler isn't mentioned in at least the top 3 or 4, I know that the person has no idea what they are talking about.

[@langdons2848]

@@magnusstahlberg4757 growing up listening to Telegraph Road I marvelled at the idea of "six lanes of traffic, three lanes moving slow". I'd never seen such a thing. Now I marvel at four lanes or more each way... We are absolutely living in that world.

[@paulegerton1583]

This song is a masterclass of understatement. The gaps between the guitar notes, marks trademark almost spoken voice. I can’t listen to this song without getting tears in my eyes.

[@jimhood1202]

Nice thought. I also consider him a master player for knowing when not to play. The pauses can be more powerful than packing the piece with technique (which he has in abundance, so it's definitely a choice)

[@johnpressey5900]

From my perspective, as a Disabled Desert Storm Veteran, I relate to what you are feeling, and interpreting in the defeating the vocal, but the optimistic qualities of the guitar. Though I am here, I lost my life. (The life I would have lived.) My body is defeated. My psychology struggles. But… my SPIRIT is STRONG to still have HOPE AND FAITH! The guitar is SPIRIT, carrying my body and psyche forward!

[@DarioMelkuhn]

I am a Vet this is why I have been learning guitar, I am not good but every time I pick it up it calms me

[@johnfisher9816]

Your analysis Amy is spot on - impressive. Mark Knopfler and his guitar are indeed one in the same entity. Neither one sings over the other. As a retired army officer with 43 years service and a fourth generation soldier paternally, this music carries one's mind across the decades of conflict and loss. Lest We Forget, John

[@nigelgregory7308]

This turned into an anthem, Amen to the friends we loved and lost ♥️

[@ReadingRambo152]

I think Marks voice and guitar have had a deep connection. He’s such an amazing vocalist. It’s as if he voice is speaking for his brain, and his guitar is plugged directly into his heart.

[@Ron.S.]

Thanks for your service. Unfortunately here in Britain, you can often find ex soldiers homeless with no financial or mental support - the support that thousands needed after the war the song is about - the Falklands War.

[@marywayzee]

Ron. Wow. After listening to this song for years, I only understand that line fully now because you’ve said this. “We’re fools to make war on our brothers in arms” refers to/can refer to the woefully insufficient services that are afforded to veterans. This is a shameful problem in the U.S. as well, and I imagine in many if not most countries.

[@darren6202]

Agreed. I'll never forget John either. What a guy.

[@barrypartington1945]

This lady is very perceptive. She picked up all the nuances almost immediately and her comments were all spot on. Kudos to her!

[@judegrant6664]

I agree. Very impressed with her insights!

[@richardguthrie3422]

She should let the song play through uninterrupted. Then comment. Then maybe go through it again with commentary. Very distracting when you want to hear the song.

[@3wL7]

@@richardguthrie3422 You can hear the song (uninterrupted) in the original video, we are here to watch her reaction to this song, aren't we?

[@jonaskyronviita9916]

@@richardguthrie3422 Why? If you want to listen to the song it is available without commentary. This is supposed to be a reaction video.

[@StephenBoothUK]

@@3wL7 plus, from a purely practical point of view, if the song played all the way through uninterrupted the KZbin AI would probably trigger a copyright flag. By giving commentary over and in pauses in the play back it’s classified as fair use.

[@pete2dc]

This song came out after my first tour in Northern Ireland. Everyone I have lost, this song brings them back.

[@banger355tw]

I’m an old guy and have heard this song many times. I’ve always had an emotional attachment to it. It is so deep and powerful that when my son was in Iraq I could not bare to listen to it until he got back from that battle zone. Even to this day, though I am not averse to hearing it played, I can’t take it in without it reducing me to tears. Like a great swell it just kind of washes over you. I know of what little my son wanted to tell me about his time there, that though these soldiers’ may not have had their flesh torn, they still come back wounded having suffered with their “ brothers in arms “. Some music is on a higher plane, an almost spiritual realm where your soul has been touched by an unseen hand. This one is one of those. T

[@benspeller8635]

So true

[@Leo_Pard_A4]

I love this song, but it hurts.

[@klemmetv6875]

💕

[@scottkempton6085]

Banger.....You payed attention in English class, didn't you? Good on ya!

[@jettechdonatkins]

My son was also in Iraq,as a Marine and this song means a lot to the both of us.I remember how emotional it was for my son telling about how hard it was seeing the loss of life on both sides.May God bless our sons.

[@andrewpurcell4718]

Brothers in Arms is a modern masterpiece...Mark Knopfler at his greatest. The power of the emotion in his guitar overwhelms...

[@MobiusBandwidth]

there's a good argument to be made this is the ultimate guitar song.

[@andrewpoules9109]

Very true we will never hear anything as poignant as this ever again take care my friend

[@davidhart7792]

A composer of modern music who is up there with any composer of classical music.

[@tvbridge]

Modern......it's almost 40 years old now, but will never grow old like those we remember who've fallen to the Cabal's wars of chaos & trauma!

[@mattmathai]

Mark Knopfler is perhaps the most emotional guitar player I've heard. And his voice, while not a great one by conventional measures, is perfect for the music he makes

[@KoeiNL]

Peter Green?

[@sharpvidtube]

Gary Moore is the most emotional for me, but the guitar in this song is superb, it's always been one of my favourite songs.

[@TomHill-xh7ec]

In January 1991 I was a commissioned officer who wasn't activated yet. As 15 January approached, watching TV was driving me crazy and I went for a drive. As the deadline for Iraq to withdraw from Kuwait arrived, a local radio station played an hour of music devoted to the moment. I listened to this song in my car, in the rain, at a train crossing. It's one of the most memorable moments of my life. Thank you for bringing it back.

[@klemmetv6875]

I can imagen. 💖

[@frankbartel1789]

Heared this Song 1987 in Front of a picture in the Muse D'orsay ... de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mus%C3%A9e_d%E2%80%99Orsay [30.3., 17:45] Frank Bartel: kzbin.info/www/bejne/oJnHd5hpmtuLps0si=tGQrSqlhhCw9CbrX en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Enigma_(Dor%C3%A9) en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brothers_in_Arms_(song)

[@nightthornkvala94132]

This was written in answer to the Falklands War. It's from the POV of a mortally wounded soldier whose Brothers in Arms won't leave him while he still has breath in his body, even if it puts them in danger on the battlefield. Incredibly moving.

[@art.is.life.eternal]

@SenorDesmadre It's much more than that.

[@JonSmith-we2oz]

As a British Army veteran who lost a cousin at Goose Green, this track has always carried a lot of emotion for me and is one that will always be on my playlist. Both my wife's and my families are military, including our son and this is on my list of music for when I leave for the final RV.

[@nightthornkvala94132]

@@JonSmith-we2oz Have you seen the cover by the a cappella group Home Free? So beautiful and moving.

[@onlylexus]

I am 70 years of age, and I have been listening to Mark Knopfler for most of my life. His playing and his emotional composition always touch me deeply. He plays in his own unique style, when you hear it then you know its Mark Playing, with his twisting the strings and pushing up on them to get that sound. His music means so very much to me, in many ways I would not have survived without it as I used it in times past to give me strength and inspiration when I felt low, although his music makes me cry in tears, in some strange way it made me climb up with encouragement and yearning. Yes his music somehow yearns with beauty. Mark Knopfler saved my life in many ways. I find I love the man, for sharing his soul with me. I wish I could say thank you to him. I am grateful that you are listening to this great track and sharing it with us all that are fans of Mark's. God Bless xx

[@phoenix-xu9xj]

Me too. Plus he’s from my area of the North East England. We have our own struggles, always have.

[@shaunbrowne3963]

I’m 72, and first heard of Dire Straits in 1978, with ‘Sultans of Swing.’ I’ve been a fan ever since, seeing them live every time either as DS, or on MK’s solo performances, in Toronto, Canada.

[@johnmacom6267]

I always loved Mark's quote that "once you have nothing left to say (with the vocal) you let the guitar do the talking."

[@Rjhs001]

This song never fails to bring tears to my eyes.

[@Stefan-]

I almost never cry but it totally surpricingly just came over me now when i heard the song in this reaction. I remember the song from first hearing it when it came out in the 80´s and it was of course always beautiful and touching but i think now it reminded me of the struggles of the Ukranian people who i feel strongly for and that was probably the main reason it brought me to tears.

[@nightthornkvala94132]

Me too.

[@aussierhino471]

And goose bumps to my skin

[@Jack-bs6zb]

You should know that in the Ukraine they’ve published a death list to target opponents which includes Tulsi Gabbard and Roger Waters (Pink Floyd) in addition to local journos and dissidents along with gruesome photo’s of murdered enemies. Do some research. This is not the simple narrative you’re being fed.

[@boatbikemike8571]

There is some excellent footage of Mark Knopfler playing it. He always cries. Beautiful and heartbreaking at once

[@joeavelar2222]

What Mark does with his guitar in this piece is nothing short of magic. Each note is extended and hauntingly beautiful. Brings such emotion

[@liamweston296]

Wow - I've listened to this song a thousand times but you picked up on something that really struck me. There are 2 voices - Mark and his guitar and I can now hear a call and response conversation between Mark and his guitar representing his brothers in arms. The idea that these are his dying thoughts somehow becomes much more comforting when you listen to the guitar part in that context. It's like it's welcoming him to join his fallen comrades..

[@234i9]

Mark really developed his guitar playing into being a second singer he does duets with.

[@boomer1981abc]

Mark's voice is that of the dead/dying, and the guitar is the voice of the living continuing to fight on in memory of their fallen brothers.

[@guitarfreekin]

That solo always brings a lump in the throat, there is so much going on in the song, but the solo is just pure soul.

[@jaypee6061]

Soulo

[@michaelheller8841]

Marks playing is so pure, his guitar sings.

[@terrencedye4701]

I've listened to this song probably a thousand times ,and marks guitar still gives me goose bumps and brings a lump in my throat . This song is absolutely beautiful

[@grahamtravers4522]

The soldier is not wounded, he's dead. "These mist-covered mountains are home to me now." I think that explains the quiet, even tone of the voice. It's coming from beyond the grave. BTW, you mention the "Scottish snap"; the Scots Guards was one of the regiments that fought on the mountains during the Falklands War.

[@graemetimoney7002]

I agree with your analysis that the song is from beyond the grave, as implied by the quiet yet haunting tones.

[@pimplequeen2]

I'm not sure I agree, the despair pails into the backdrop when he discovers that a brother "did not desert me"... Now he knows what love is, now he is no longer blind and sees we are fools until we do see. But round and round the world goes, fumbling around in the dark and hurting each other until we get our own "baptism of fire". The soldier "may" return to his valley and know better but can he ever trust that the soldier's orders are clean, noble and necessary?

[@mikecummings3149]

Mark himself said the soldier is dying in the mountains, looking down on the town in the valley he will never see again..

[@germanargentinaxplora2265]

❤

[@eirtars]

I would more say he's interpersonnizing (i'm inventing or misspelling here? :p) a soldier who's dying and agonizing on a mountainous landscape perhaps. He says it's a home, which means he's here for quite a time, but that he comes from the lowlands. He had seen quite a lot of atrocities (validate the fact that hes here for quite some time). In the end he tells it clearly "Every man has do die" "let me bid you farewell". So for me it's a soldier who's agonizing on a battlefield, that's why hes tone is low and monolithic. He's now deprived of all his energy and will. Just has some thoughts on atrocities he witnessed, and now his fate, thinking how foolish this all his, and quite an inevitability at same time. This is all this ambivalence and the agonizing that makes it very fatalist, low tone, with the guitar that expresses the pain and the melancholy. Great topic BTW ! (Edit : the girl of the video intuitivly nailed it, she said it's a dying soldiers thoughts and says)

[@SamBorgman]

The way you defined Mark's voice and his guitar playing, that was a huge insight into what he does. He and his guitar tells the story better than any other singer I know.

[@davidfeltz8697]

Yep.

[@christopherharrison6724]

I had forgotten how brilliant this piece was ,it’s like re-visiting my youth .Love seeing how you react to this as a first time listener.

[@hippydippy]

Me too. I haven't heard it in probably 30 years.

[@michaelheller8841]

I think Mark is one of the most expressive guitar players of all time. He never plays with a pick, all his fingers for his tone. He can take you on a journey with just his playing. His voice matched his guitar playing. That song always brings me to tears. It's that good, your analysis is dead on. I like how you break down the music and meaning.

[@josipfleis9223]

A calm voice is the voice of a fallen soldier who has finally found peace, freed from fear, pain and suffering, and also anger. He simply found peace. And the sound of the guitar is his crying ...

[@jennywren7822]

So well said.

[@314WESTERN]

Poetically, spot on.

[@RideAcrossTheRiver]

Actually, I don't see it as one point of view but several.

[@jaypee6061]

Never fails to draw a tear from my eye………..

[@barriesansom2070]

Fantastic..ive played this song forever since it came out..shivers down my spine still now! Falklands .. Ukraine the madness of war .😢 thankyou for this video and commentary

[@TheAlja]

I always imagine this as a soldier on the battle field, wounded and about to die. And the voice is his rational mind, thinking about his home, where they are, what is happening, the brothers in arms. With few emotions exept a state of sadness, just calm and rational, thinking about the whole situation. And the guitar is his heart, filled with emotions, weeping, crying, pain, anger. Such a beautiful sad combination.

[@DD-lc5ts]

I think the same. I fought in the Falklands war and this work of art is more emotional to me as each year goes by.

[@Divedown_25]

I see the soldier at home after the war, wounded and left alone in his world of thoughts from the battlefield where the war at end did not make any sense… all around him was death and pain… and well back home no-one seem understand him so he goes out to the mountain alone and just sit there where the guitar is his feelings

[@jedislap8726]

@@Divedown_25 The Op is correct, it was meant to be from the POV of a soldier dying on the battlefield as his comrades comfort him.

[@jamesclapp6832]

You're a poet.

[@theantilifeequation8150]

Yes I have read a lot about this song and yes it was written from the point of view of a dying soldier being reflective in his final moments. With his "brothers in arms" around him giving him comfort.

[@SeanHendy]

My Dad had already been in the Army for some 13 years by the time I was born. As a teenager and young adult, this song was one of my favourites and I often listened to it. I then became an Officer in the Army and went to war. Now, this song is incredibly poignant and has a very different meaning and impact when I hear it. It literally stops me in my tracks and I often have to keep my emotions in check. I was just 10 years old when the Falklands war took place. This year was the 40th anniversary of the Falklands War, and this song, if you didn't already know, is about that war. 'These mist covered mountains...Are a home now for me...' are the words of a soldier dying on the battlefield lamenting about how he won't 'return to their valleys and their farms'. An incredibly powerful song. I remember, some years ago now, sitting with another veteran as this song played. We looked at each other,, gently chinked glasses, and 'toasted' to fallen brothers in arms, without saying anything. No words needed.

[@zebj16]

Thank you, I remember the Falklands war, so sad but I guess that is true for all wars.

[@davidmorgan5312]

Sean I don't think that most people realise that the song is about the Falklands conflict, they just think its a generic anti-war song, God rest the souls that passed in the South Atlantic.

[@ultr4fly60]

@@davidmorgan5312 right, i just learned it today. I always thought it is about Vietnam.

[@harveytr7106]

I was 5 when my father went to the Falklands and all the framing of his life that that engendered. I’ve loved this song since the first time I heard it as a child and always pictured it as the Falklands. It opened up a different perspective, which never hurts.

[@markmarkplace]

Thank you sir, and to your father, for your sacrifices. It is comforting to know that there are people like you in the world. - a grateful old yank

[@anthonylamb3488]

A great song and so is Telegraph Road, another Straits brilliant offering which you must listen to. Full of music with piano, guitar and drums each having their own solo then crashing into one powerful performance. 😎

[@CharlyDS]

Agree, Telegraph Road is another masterpiece. It's like a movie indeed, all its parts, the story it tells, the incredible ending like a full speed train. Magic.

[@Daveandsaralowe]

Me absolute genius of a song

[@briansnider1235]

telegraph road live is one of the best live concert songs I have ever heard..... just an amazing musical story.

[@clintwelch9843]

Played this song on Remembrance Day while making dinner for my three year old daughter. She stopped playing with her toys looked very solemn and said daddy this is a very sad song. The voice is hope, the guitar is sorrow.

[@garyneilson3075]

I think the guitar voice is letting the soldier ride out on a wave of empathy for all soldiers. I hope they all get to hear/feel something of that kind while going. And your little daughter is clearly an empath, a very special child.... Mine was the same....

[@shaunbrowne3963]

Perceptive little girl.

[@secolerice]

I can’t listen to this song without crying. As an Army brat and a history enthusiast, it reminds me of so much. The singing reminds me of the reluctance of veterans to talk of what the experienced in war. I have ancestors who fought in most of the American wars. Also my step-grandfather fought in WWI, uncle in WWII, father-in-law Korea, my father in Vietnam. This is a very powerful song and so well done.

[@floydfloyd3706]

There are a few songs I have to ration out because I am afraid I would get sick of them if played too much. This is one of them. Suzanne is quite correct. I feel that to interrupt Brothers in Arms with comments is bordering on disrespect.

[@hypnoraythompson5824]

💙

[@torgnyaanderaa2334]

I have no familial connection to the military, and I tear up every time hearing this. Futile and naïve as my sentiments no doubt are, it makes me dream of a time when there are no more wars

[@secolerice]

@@torgnyaanderaa2334 Unfortunately, as long as there are humans there will be war. All one can do is be examples of loving, peaceful people in our own corners of the world.

[@torgnyaanderaa2334]

@@secolerice As however much I wish you were wrong, there's little evidence to support my dream - and a LOT more evidence to back up your prediction. So, like you say, all we can do is our little part. Here's hoping your corners stays peaceful, Suzanne.

[@peteuk7157]

As a veteran it’s very emotional…thanks for the stream

[@dlondon1144]

The song is, in effect, a declaration from a soldier with profound PTSD or from the grave of a fallen soldier. The voice evokes the image of a man whose spirit is calm, but whose soul is in terrible turmoil. As an old soldier myself, I find this song powerfully moving and emotionally painful. But for all that, it speaks truth regarding the hearts of those who have fallen or suffered great loss in war. It is one of my favourites. Thank you for reviewing it.

[@prateekjain7423]

Almost 2.2K comments now but I still wanna write that I absolutely loved this reaction by you. Mark for me is like someone very very close to me (through his songs of course). So your appreciation of his masterpiece felt like you appreciating someone I dearly love. A sense of pride sort of. That, along with all the emotions the song triggers, made me cry so much!

[@GuildOfTheBlackCrow]

The line 'It's wriiten in the stars, and every line in your palm.' is just so incredible. From something so vast, intangible and out of reach, to something so individual, personal and close to home. In the space of two lines. Just not an ounce of fat on this song.

[@scottlochans4180]

As a Musician, bet you've NEVER EVER heard a Better Guitarist, Mark Knocker. Wow, Always Delightful.

[@ianbotha9912]

I first heard this song after coming back from a war in Angola. I came back after waking up in a field of corpses, one other living person was there, a mercenary sergeant from England. He was dying and quoted the song. I am moved to tears every time I hear it....

[@rogerrynearson2500]

Your comment got me. The words of the dying to the living, I am so glad there was someone there to hear him speak those words. He didn't die alone.

[@truthbtold2910]

Love you Brother.

[@Geotubest]

Wow, that's powerful. Knopfler's message is indeed timeless and universal.

[@tonynz9954]

Ons vir jou Suid Afrika. What did those poor guys die for on the Border. We were told at High School in South Africa that we were fighting to keep the Commies out. In the end de Klerk handed the country over to the Commies.Veraaiers in the National Party Cabinet. Thank you for your service my broer. I salute you .

[@peterfitzpatrick7032]

He should have stayed at home... killing people for money is the surest way to go to hell... 😒

[@c128stuff]

You are spot on with the roles of the voice and the guitar. The voice tells the story, tired in a way, melancholic, and awaiting the inevitable fate, but in a very understated way. The guitar is the emotions that are really going on. It is very nice how you pick up on all the things that make this such a much loved and timeless piece of rock music.

[@alexbaum2204]

What do you think of the idea of his voice being that of the soldier. His thoughts as he trods towards his inevitable death in battle. The guitar is some sort of angelic being, perhaps an angel of death (maybe an even Mother Earth like entity), seeing it all unfold with utter pain. A being of innocence that, though it has seen this untold countless times before - tragically repeated over and over again, it’s as if it’s seeing it for the very first time. Shocked by the sadness and senselessness.

[@c128stuff]

@@alexbaum2204 I interpret Mark's voice as that of a soldier, knowing the end is near. I interpret the guitar as both a confirming, and a comforting voice.

[@whocares2033]

One of the very few songs that , genuinely, brings a tear.

[@pringlw]

Mark Knopfler is my favorite guitarist of all time. His playing is so emotive. So, human. This song is one that showcases that perfectly.

[@FrMaximilianMaryDean]

Yes.

[@AWguitar2006]

exactly

[@tobyroad]

The guitar is the inner voice of the pain and the lyrical expression is the stoic outer voice of a soldier. Mark captured this in a way few ever has or could.

[@docw1819]

This is one of the best songs of the rock era. Mark’s brilliance is showcased in this album. Please keep expanding your knowledge. I understand that the song was penned after the Falkland war and as he never served he has captured the essence of serving and commitment. I am 70+ Aussie Vietnam veteran and I will have this at my farewell. Please add to your music understanding.

[@jimbates6227]

She is now under Mark's spell like me and countless millions. I've had the pleasure of attending a couple of his concerts and very much look forward to more from him and his band. Brothers In Arms had me the first time I heard it decades ago and it's still at, or near, the top of my list. Mark is a treasure.

[@neilallso400]

As a forces veteran, I can't listen to this around people as I get reduced to a emotional mess and I feel shame looking that way. I will leave as soon as possible to finish my cry alone. I have spent time with this song, digesting the lyrics and as a guitarist just letting the tune carry my thoughts. Its an amazing piece that hits every nerve.

[@leegould5306]

There is no shame in that.

[@happydays3678]

I've watched Mark Knofler in tears at the end of a live performance. Complete legend.

[@luisfilipe1215]

The way he played Brothers in arms at the Mandela concert was something out of this World

[@matushorvath]

This is not a reaction channel, this is a music analysis channel. I know these songs, but still you every time notice something I never noticed and describe it more precisely than I would ever be able to, even in my native language. Basically, you describe the pieces in a way that makes me feel like I'm reacting to them for the first time, even when I have been listening to them for 25 years.

[@Pjaypt]

Exactly my feeling! My favorite one until now is the one about Hey You. Her analysis is a gem! 👏👏 And I've been listening that song for 42 years now 🤷

[@peebeedee6757]

Funny then that Amy herself is calling it a reaction .... right there in the title. She does, of course, give a interesting analysis .... as she reacts.

[@JoshPhoenix11]

Its because she's a musician, and technically trained one. This is what I would expect from all proper music reaction videos actually, because its what I would do, and she's just doing it to a higher degree of musical talent/expertise/knowledge/professionalism etc.

[@madenglishman9822]

Exactly!! I’ve learned new appreciation of much loved songs from her analysis

[@usuallyclueless4477]

@@JoshPhoenix11 Exactly, this is why I also enjoy watching Doug Helvering.

[@luisraulcamposarribas9434]

This is one of my favourite songs ever, as a guitar player I love this band. It's sooooo elegant, strong, gentle and powerfull that it gets me emotional every time I listen to it. Is simply an amazing heartfelted song written and played directly from Mark's soul. And thank you very much for your video reaction, you showed me to listen this theme in a more analytical way. Cheers!

[@edeledeledel5490]

And he has such a range of styles of song form this one, to Sultans of Swing, folk, jazz, swing, country, you name it, Mark has done it...

[@billfairhall7828]

I’m a pianist and I have listened this piece over a couple of thousand times and am still memorize by it’s brilliance. Mark is a musical genius

[@josephbloggss7286]

I think you mean 'mesmerized', as I myself am. I have been a fan of Dire Straits from the very beginning. Sheer class!

[@kernangler]

Truth

[@billfairhall7828]

@@josephbloggss7286 I hate spellcheque 🥶😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@rcmc88]

The Scottish notes and hints are pretty close, Mark is from the North East of England which borders Scotland. His guitar playing is exceptional and i can listen to him all day. It was nice to see someone approaching the album nearly 40 years afters it's release with completely open and fresh eyes.

[@andrewhiggins8873]

He was born in scotland

[@stewartross1030]

@@andrewhiggins8873 saved me from saying it lol

[@paulm2467]

@@andrewhiggins8873 Hungarian father, English mother, born in Glasgow, moved to Blyth (near Newcastle) when he was 7, he’s a typical UK national, we are all a bit of a mixture.

[@graham9881]

Just before his big break with Sultans of Swing he was teaching English at Loughton College in Essex, England which explains the eloquence of his lyrics

[@HarryFlashmanVC]

I've played Scottish fiddle for 50 years and I now play bass, I find Dire Straits very natural to play.

[@BravosUK]

I'm old, I'm a veteran, I'm a big fan of Mark Knopfler and Dire Straits. This is one of my favourite pieces of music, and will be played at my funeral (Cheerful aren't I?). I have listened to many people giving their first reactions to many songs, but I have to say that your analysis of this particular number is first class. It is obvious that your musical background and understanding of musical composition has enabled a really excellent overview of this number. Well done. I will look out for more of your "First Listen Reactions'.

[@qbertq1]

Mark is singing; his guitar is crying.

[@OcotilloTom]

Beautiful song, lots of meaning to all us veterans no matter where or with whom you served Tom Boyte, GySgt. USMC, retired Vietnam 1965-66/1970-71 Infantry, machine guns Bronze Star, Purple Heart

[@TomJohnsonREMAX]

Thank you for your service, Gunny.

[@VikingGruntpa]

Is it true the purple crayons taste like grape? ;) SFC, US Army Infantry, Mortars and Mech Inf. 1987 - 2007 Desert Storm and OIF. Hooah Gunny.

[@jimmazurek5589]

Thank you for your service, Gunny. Blessings for you and yours.

[@SimonPhillips76]

That one chord is so powerful. In a universe of vulgar technical prowess, Mark Knopfler is the most eloquent guitarist. Sublime music.

[@catzkeet4860]

The very first time I heard this was at dusk, live at an outdoor venue, and it's one of my most treasured concert memories. This uses Mark Knopflers ability to express emotion thru his instrument so exquisitely well, as well as his "everyman voice" This is a hymn against ALL wars.

[@loughkb]

Mark's guitar is his other voice. He sings along with it. It's a musical duet of sorts. He's one of those guys that can do that so well. Make a guitar sing with an almost human cadence and voice.

[@Wolverines77]

Mark Knopfler is the very definition of a bard.

[@hl5597]

I think so are David Gilmour of Pink Floyd and Lindsey Buckingham of Fleetwood Mac ... three of my guitar and singing heroes

[@blackbob3358]

It's obviously a moving song. But the scenes with all those blind "Tommies", (mustard gas, for people who do'nt know) is double moving.( mi dads dad never came back.) Not forgetting all the "EMPIRE" soldiers, as they were called. Filthy twats in Westminster , then, as now. Nothing much changes.

[@loughkb]

@@hl5597 One that people rarely talk about, but I think deserves mention, is Prince. If you ignore his pop hits and look into his deeper catalog of jazz and other musical styles, he was a pretty amazing guitarist. Among other instruments.

[@Regaljester75]

Garry Moore

[@RobertDePinto]

Wow. Her insight / idea about the voice and the guitar being two sides / aspects of the emotional state... Ive never seen that before and i feel she is right. Amazing. The depth and layers to this song and music, never seem to end. Masterpiece.

[@KenL414]

Great example of why Mark is my favorite guitarist ever. Haven't heard anyone who puts as much feeling into their playing - he can completely take my knees out with a single note.

[@teemusid]

I don't have a favorite guitarist; there are just too many perfect moments in songs for me to choose one. Knopfler can lay claim to three of them, Telegraph Road, Going Home, and this song. Gilmour, Fripp, May, Robertson/Gorham, Ronson, McCready, Hackett, Buckingham.........too many.

[@PeteNetLive]

If you've not listened to it - listen to 'Feels Like Going Home' by the Notting Hillbillies - its a fantastic Solo By Mr Knopfler

[@ManWithoutThePants]

@@teemusid Yes, I completely agree about ranking guitarist is kind of pointless. I always rather use term "one of my favorite guitarists" since there are so many greats and each having different things going on and the playing styles can vary so much that it's almost like comparing pianist and bassist :). Knopfler is definitely up there as one of my favorites. Like on this track he's got so much subtlety in his playing going on and with great taste that I can't help, but to just love it.

[@kakdelarebyata]

"That guitar is really quite something." Hearing a person like you with such a refined aesthetic say those words makes my heart leap. Indeed, it is quite something.

[@234i9]

Its only the (IMHO) best guitar player ever.

[@ruddle17]

@@234i9 I lean towards Peter Green but Knopfler is right up there

[@MarkusBoettner]

I can't wrap my head around the fact that there are people in the developed world who have never listened to a single song on this milestone album. OK, but that's only me, probably. I grew up in the former GDR where Dire Straits records weren't even available. But Mark Knopfler is the artist that I have seen the most all of all the concerts I went to - seen him live 5 times. On April 12, his 10th solo album was released - the man will be celebrating his 75th birthday this year - and I spotted hook lines from songs from 40 years ago on the new album that he probably wasn't using deliberately. MK is such a force in the music world that I really, really don't understand how there are people living who have never heard his music. My granddad passed away in 2020 aged 89, and he knew Dire Straits lyrics! ;) …as a German.

[@chrisdavidson911]

"I especially like the expressiveness of the guitar"- There's nobody else like him, other people can play guitar extremely well, but Mark lets it speak. Feel Like Going Home (live, with tom Jones) is a prime example of it, half of the lyrics are in the music. Mark's guitar is the greatest backing singer of all time.

[@nick260682]

Good point. For another example of someone letting the guitar speak, try John Mayer playing with Leon Russell “a song for you”. Truly beautiful “speaking” guitar.

[@huwjennings2695]

The only thing I'd disagree with, is I'm not so sure whether the Guitar was the backing singer, or Mark was. ;)

[@srprice2383]

Apart from me obviously as MK 2

[@pietdebondt3934]

Besides the obvious (David Gilmour) another guitarist that evokes his emotions through his guitar like Mark can do is Andy Latimer. Listen to Ice or The Hour Candle (about his father) I never can listen to them without tearing up

[@mlansky7302]

the distinction comes partly because he does not use a flat pick, he plucks the strings with his fingers, he is in the minority that way when it comes to rock guitar where the emphasis is often on speed and loudness

[@hypnoraythompson5824]

Hi, such an interesting watch. I am 71 years old and bought the album (as I have all of their albums) when it first came out, and this song has always made me cry. Watching your facial joy listening to it for the first time reminded me of my first listen. I have always thought that Marks voice kinda cascades over the notes that he plays . Thank you.

[@josephwaters94]

This song was inspired by the Falklands War, which was going on when Dire Straits lead singer Mark Knopfler wrote the song. The Falklands War was a conflict between Argentina and the UK over islands off the coast of Argentina that each country claimed rights to. The islands are British territories, but in 1982 Argentina tried to reclaim one of the islands. Britain reclaimed their territories but lost 258 soldiers in the conflict. In this song, Mark Knopfler sings about a soldier who is dying on the battlefield, surrounded by his comrades, who remain by his side as he slips away. It's a look at the folly of war and the plight of those who fight them. "We've got just one world but we live in different ones," he told the BBC.

[@Aengus42]

Goosebumps! Right from the start. And Knopfler's touch on the guitar is unmistakeable. He makes it talk. His lyrics being the question and his guitar the answer in the classic blues Q&A framework. This track brings me to tears. It's so beautiful. From an ex guitarist who lost his fingers to sepsis.

[@mrbluesky9891]

Respect Les, and they say there's a god.

[@Aengus42]

@@mrbluesky9891 Exactly mate! As a lifelong atheist it kinda proved my position.

[@rachaelrogers3909]

Thank you, you are the first reaction that interpreted Brothers' in Arms the way I have always felt about it, since I first heard it as a child forty years ago.

[@stefankarlsson4652]

For me, the guitar is his inner feelings. He is calm, need to be calm, in the war, but inside its lots going on, and the guitar reflects that feeling.

[@foxdenham]

Understated brilliance. The music carries us towards our death. The resigned voice explains our path and the guitar cries us home. Heartfelt Perfection.

[@rAndomlight1069]

I love her expressions as she listens. She feels every note and the analysis is spot on. Brothers In Arms is a classic.

[@purpleman1974]

Mark Knopfler´s note choice in the guitar melodies is absolutely mesmerizing in this song. One of the best I´ve ever heard, any music style.

[@rossokeefe9655]

For all the times I've listened to this song, I've always loved it for the epic piece of music that it is. Now, listening to the analysis and reading comments while listening to it I am genuinely in tears. I don't why that happened today

[@donainscough6598]

It’s Sunday. Three days ago, I was on a lengthy trip across England and Wales and as I came down from the Cambrian mountains into Aberystwyth and turned left to head down the coast to Cardigan, I switched off Radio 4, opened Spotify and asked Siri to play Brothers in Arms. Having that aching lament accompany me as I crested each hill bringing the silvery Irish Sea into view, just for a moment, life seemed complete.

[@thomasmeyer8798]

Mark's playing is pure masterclass. One of the few songs that trigger my tears.

[@dozer1642]

I was a young man when this album came out and this song got to me. It still does. It gets me every time.

[@mikesmith6838]

Same with me. No other Dire Straits song touches me like this one.

[@focusedrealestatephotography]

Your interpretation is so good. I love how you didn’t let any detail escape you. So many times I’ve listened to this song (first I heard it in 1986) and I have adored it since then, yet you were able to pull out new things for me just from hearing it for the first time! I’m amazed

[@CaptainKlepton]

I love the way you analyzed this epic song. The line that sticks with me the most is:" We have just one world, but we live in different ones", that is so true.

[@chriswhealy4170]

What great insight, Amy - you nailed it! Mark Knopfler's genius lies in his ability to say so much by saying so little. He express emotion so beautifully through his guitar, and then he uses his voice to provide a half-sung, half-spoken commentary on what his guitar is singing. This is musicianship of the highest calibre.

[@Veklim]

I cannot hear this without crying, one of the most powerful songs ever written.

[@Markus73Sweden]

Dire Straits are criminally underrated among critics and music snobs. I can see two reasons: 1. The enormous sales figures of the Brothers in Arms album. 2. The horrible Walk of Life video. Dig just slightly deeper and you'll find gems like "Tunnel of Love", "Private Investigations" and the 14 minute long "Telegraph Road", none of which are "mainstream music". Still, the song in this video is, arguably, their very best. Haunting, important and much overlooked.

[@neecy1000]

Totally agree, absolutely beautiful song...one of my mothers favourite bands, I also love them ❤️ 😊

[@SISU889]

Dire Straits are not underrated by ANYBODY , in the music business . Knopfler is very well admired and respected .....

[@ohiampuja9246]

Making Movies was the first LP I ever bought Recommend everybody to listen. I was a fan of DireStraits since Sultans of Swing....

[@artysanmobile]

Your opening statements sound much more to me like ignorance on your part of the actual fact that they are beloved by so many. And I do mean LOVED. They enjoy a near unanimous admiration from both the critic community and “music snobs.” I’m not sure if you’re just choosing the wrong words or if you live in a bubble somewhere I have never visited. Dire Straits, the artist, enjoys global significance and fame that defy every inference of your opening sentence.

[@chriscox4023]

Telegraph road, a short history of the conquest of Americas Wild West.

[@JM-lb4lw]

You're extraordinarily perceptive for a first listen. It is my favourite song. I grew up listening to it with my father on road trips through Scotland - and when he died 20 years ago, we played it at his funeral. Thank you for appreciating it as you did..

[@mumblbeebee6546]

Thank you! A lot of these “react” videos are clickbait on YT and I admit I clicked on this suggestion from YT with trepidation - or expecting to laugh at a contrived set-up. How nice to be met instead with such care and attention! Mark Knopfler has played a large part of the sound track of my life, and this song has had a huge impact on me, as it has had one many others - the comments here in your responses clearly show it. I have listened to this many hundred times since I bought the record, and over the years as I changed, my appreciation of the song evolved - but since it was with me since my teenage years, I have always had that link to it that perhaps even prevents a completely fresh listen… It has been a pleasure to follow your listening and thoughts - thank you for sharing this!

[@mumblbeebee6546]

One moment made me laugh out loud - because you made me realise that this album, perhaps even this song was a huge step for Mark Knopfler that I had never pinpointed thus far (talk about blind fandom 😂): When Mark hit success, he was not a prodigy - his ‘apprenticeship’ years have been well documented - but his mastery of the guitar was evident from the start and made many aspiring guitarists sit up and blink. He really could, to use his lyrics “make it cry and make it sing”, and the almost acrobatic nature of his playing - and a good acrobat is not just technically skilled and outrageously flexible and tough, but also _graceful_ and _glowing_ - was in stark contrast to his singing which even his friends would agree was… nowhere near that level. On Brothers in arms, he found a singing voice that worked for his range. He still is not an outstanding singer, but on this track his voice and expression suit so perfectly - and I enjoyed your observation of the interplay of his guitar and singing - and that really is the specialty of Mark, that he can express himself differently, but relatedly, through his two voices. Thanks again!

[@futonclutch5040]

I think this song was written for the Falklands War, brutally fought under the freezing rain in the hills and shallow mountains of the South Atlantic islands between Britain and Argentina in 1982. Some say it's an anti war song, but to me it is a tribute to the men who found themselves thousands of miles from home, leaning on each other as brothers, as they fight to one day return to that home.

[@Jimages_uk]

This is exactly my own understanding. Most of the veterans I know, who served down south during the conflict, have the same understanding.

[@Altinget]

Realise: The purpose of going to war is to stop it.

[@Markus73Sweden]

It's hard not callling this masterpiece an anti-war song with the final line being "We're fools to make war on our brothers in arms"?

[@articbaba]

@@Markus73Sweden I agree, I always thought that this song is also for all the young Argentinians conscripts forced to fight in the same harsch conditions by their dictator. They were all Brothers in arms. Every man has to die, no matter which side he is on

[@rcopterboy]

@@articbaba as someone who has served and who has met soldiers from previously ‘opposition’ sides, what is clear is that all soldiers are brothers in arms. You have a natural affinity with those who choose (or are conscripted to) a path that may involve the ultimate selflessness. It’s just that every now and then politicians tell them to fight each other.

[@jean-marcsomma3871]

Love your analysis of one of the most touching songs ever written. I never was in the military but this piece somehow always brings tears to my eyes. Mark’s timbre and guitar weaving is masterful. You are right that both are from a same entity. Thank you.

[@dylanmenzies3973]

I'm not a veteran but it does it to me every time. I'm glad it means so much. Every leader should listen to this with a bunch of veterans.

[@jonathanlambeth3464]

Not only one of the great guitar players of our time, one of the great composers.

[@hawkarm6604]

So glad that Vlad choose this song for your first reaction to Dire Straits! i know many would think of sultans of swing or walk of life are more representative but this is such a beautiful song. Your interpretation of the song was so inline with my own thoughts and feelings. Not gonna lie it brings a lot of sadness and memories, a was born in 1980 one of my first memories are of my country being at war and the fear my parents had of what would happen if they invaded. All for some distant islands where thousands died for nothing at all, too young they left this life without knowing what would be to have a family and a peaceful life....

[@andrewbclinton]

I wouldnt say they died for nothing, they freed our brothers and sisters from tyrany

[@steveh7108]

I think I would have been one of the fools that chose The Sultans of Swing. But now I know I would have been wrong this was a great choice. I can't believe she made me listen to the song and hear it in a different way after all the hundreds of times I have played it. It somehow is a little different now.

[@santosmadrigal3702]

I hear that as " the calm before the storm ".

[@santosmadrigal3702]

Or after the storm .

[@davemccrudden1999]

You have memories from the age of 2 that recall your parents fear of war? You have memories from age 2 of your country being at war? Sounds like bollocks to me.

[@MotoGoato]

Knopfler's style is unmistakable ... no one else gets such a soulful expression from a guitar. This song is a straight up masterpiece that conveys so much emotion and speaks volumes, a beautiful piece of work. I simply cannot listen to it without tearing up and getting a lump in my throat.

[@jonathancapps1103]

"I especially like the expressiveness of the guitar I'm hearing." There are some truly amazing guitarists out there, but it has always been those with a deft, expressive touch who make me sit up and take notice.

[@lensk555]

Knopfler´s guitar technique is a must for every rock guitarist. The man is a genius. Other great "war" song is "Zombie" by The Cranberries. It always gives me the chills.

[@kernelpickle]

There aren’t too many guys who play electric guitar without a guitar pick, and the only two I can even name are both legends. One of them of them is Mark Knopfler and the other one is Jeff Beck.

[@linogalveias]

@@kernelpickle Brian May plays with a 6 pence coin :)

[@414pancake]

@@kernelpickle Lindsey Buckingham, too.

[@SaturnusDK]

What sets Mark Knopfler apart is that he doesn't really pick the strings at all. The gain is always cranked to absolutely maximum so you can hear he often just brushes the strings, caressing them and then his flawless fretting lets the notes ring out clear and vibrant. It must be very difficult to make live sound for Knopfler as the risk of feedback is ever present.

[@kernelpickle]

@@SaturnusDK you can't pick the strings when you play with your fingers, he hooks his fingers under them and plucks and pops them, and does the more relaxed fingerstyle like most folks would play on an acoustic. The tone is all in the cranked up tubes, you can get it to sound clean or break up depending on the volume on your guitar, or your attack on the strings. It's not hard to mitigate feedback, that's all done with the right hand, any guitarist that's played with a lot of distortion and/or a high gain amp gets really good palm muting the strings. In heavy metal that's how the get the badass chugging guitar riffs, but even if that's not what you're playing the right hand (if you're not a left handed guitar player, otherwise it would be the opposite) is always close to the bridge so you can press the edge of your hand up against the strings and saddles to deaden the sound when you want it to stop ringing. There's also tricks with the left hand where instead of pressing only the notes you want to hit, you loosely allow your fingers to drape across the strings so only the notes you want to play ring out cleanly. Also, the fingerstyle playing he does gives you more control because your hand is fairly anchored in position because you're not making big movements like you do with a pick with the strumming, and when I play like that I find myself using my pinky to hang onto the high E string to keep it from drifting too far, that way I can focus on what's going on with my left. The riff in money for nothing is one of those riffs that sounds way easier to play than it is to play it right. Which means it's easy to play wrong. The song Smells Like Teen Spirit is another one of those, the rhythm is far more nuanced when you really break it down, and people fuck it up all the time. Money for Nothing isn't too hard with the right hand alone, but combined with the left it's easy to get tripped up because he's muting in between notes to get this syncopated rhythm with the right hand and doing some hammer ons, pull offs and little slides up and down the neck that once you try doing both hands at once becomes a little tricky. It took me hours to figure it out and get kinda close, but I was still duffing a few here and there. The tone he got was just a Les Paul plugged into a Wah Pedal and run into cranked up Marshall stack. Then he had the Wah pedal half-cocked, which means engaged but not rocking back and forth, and just kept somewhere in the middle to get that nasal bandpass filter tone that cuts through the mix. Mick Ronson who played with Bowie did that all the time, and Frank Zappa used to modify his guitars with a crazy mid-range tone circuit that would give him that half-cocked wah sound all the time, and he'd still play through a wah pedal and it was insanely nasal and you couldn't bury that tone in the mix if you tried. So, guitar players--if you want sick lead tones, half-cocked wah through a loud tube amp is always a winner.

[@chrishar110]

I can't understand how it is possible that you never heard this song till now. you can hear it in every radio station everywhere in the world.

[@srh2301]

First comment which expresses what I thought first: How can one be "serious in music" and not know this song? I bought this album 1985 as cassette when I was 14. I bought it as CD, it got scratched, I bought it twice again. If I had to give away all of my 800+ CDs I'd very likely keep this one record as last disk. I simply cannot imagine growing up without knowing this masterpiece of music.

[@cyberniclas]

Word! Lived under a rock?

[@margotmargot4426]

exactly , fake.

[@brianmoore581]

Unfortunately, you really can't hear this on every radio station in the world. Don't blame the lady because she hasn't heard this until now. There's probably a lot of classical music you should know, too, but don't.

[@douglasdoucette7352]

It is possible. I know most classic rock & pop songs from the past 50+ years but country or rap? No, don't listen to any of those genres.

[@rayjennings3637]

What an incisive reaction. You cut to the chase right from the start and re-inforce your thoughts all the way through. Thankyou! I've listened to this many, many times over the years and being an ex-soldier of decades ago I've always loved it. Today though, has been a complete revelation to me. I've suddenly got the escence of the song. I always knew it concerned the Falklands war but it hit me today, that the song is told from the viewpoint of a squaddie (British or Argentine) who's losing his life on the field of battle. He's saying that he will never go home and that the 'mist-covered mountains' are his home now and will be for evermore. His spirit sees his comrades going back home to their valleys and their farms after the end of hostilities. What a concept? A total eye-opener for me. Thankyou, Mark! I wrote this comment before what was said at 12:32 .