The Band Index

Dire Straits

EuropeUnited KingdomBlues RockClassic RockPop Rock
Community

Follow Your Favorite Band Today!

Be the first one to follow Dire Straits!

Top Dire Straits Community Posts

Loading posts...
Sponsor content

Band Timeline

1977

Formation of Dire Straits

Dire Straits was formed in London in 1977 by brothers Mark and David Knopfler along with John Illsley and Pick Withers. The band emerged from the pub rock scene, emphasizing a stripped-down, roots rock sound that contrasted with punk rock. Mark Knopfler, initially an English teacher, served as lead vocalist and guitarist. The band quickly garnered attention for their musicianship and songwriting, laying the foundation for their future success with early demos including the future hit "Sultans of Swing."
1978

Release of Debut Album 'Dire Straits' and Breakthrough with 'Sultans of Swing'

Dire Straits released their self-titled debut album in June 1978, recorded at Basing Street Studios in London. The album included the single "Sultans of Swing," which became an international hit, breaking into the US top 5 and UK top 10. The album achieved commercial success worldwide, reaching the top of charts in several countries and receiving double platinum certifications. The band supported the album through their first tour, performing in small venues across the UK and Europe, gradually building a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim for Mark Knopfler's distinctive guitar work and storytelling lyrics.
1981-1983

Establishment with Hits and Sophomore Albums

During the early 1980s, Dire Straits solidified their reputation with the release of successful singles such as "Romeo and Juliet" (1981), "Private Investigations" (1982), and the more upbeat "Twisting by the Pool" (1983). This period saw the band exploring wider musical influences including jazz and country, expanding their sound beyond traditional rock. Their albums from this era demonstrated maturity in songwriting and production, bolstering their status as a leading British rock band of the decade. The band underwent some personnel changes but retained Mark Knopfler and John Illsley as constants.
1985

Release of 'Brothers in Arms' and Global Breakthrough

In 1985, Dire Straits released 'Brothers in Arms,' which became their most successful and acclaimed album. It featured mega-hits like "Money for Nothing," "Walk of Life," and "So Far Away." The album was notable for its pioneering use of digital recording and became one of the first albums to sell over a million copies on CD. It achieved monumental commercial success, selling over 30 million copies worldwide and ranking among the best-selling albums in UK history. The album's polished production and accessible sound brought Dire Straits widespread mainstream popularity and critical recognition.
1985-1986

Massive World Tour and Live Aid Performance

Following the success of 'Brothers in Arms,' Dire Straits embarked on an extensive world tour from 1985 to 1986, performing to record-breaking audiences, particularly in Australasia. A highlight was their participation in the historic Live Aid concert in July 1985. The tour showcased their musicianship and solidified their status as global rock stars. The grandeur of the tour and the widespread visibility helped cement the band's legacy during the peak of their commercial popularity.
1988

Initial Breakup and Greatest Hits Release

In 1988, Dire Straits disbanded for the first time as Mark Knopfler sought a break after intense years of touring and recording. The band released a greatest hits compilation titled 'Money for Nothing,' which successfully encapsulated their career’s highlights to date. The release reignited interest in their music and reminded audiences of their lasting impact on rock. Despite breaking up, the compilation was well received and the band’s extensive time on the charts reflected sustained popularity through the decade.
1990

Reunion of Dire Straits

Dire Straits reformed in 1990 with Mark Knopfler and John Illsley rejoining, along with other new members. This reunion marked the beginning of a new phase involving new recordings and touring, although the band would never replicate the massive commercial scale of their mid-80s peak. The regrouping allowed them to reconnect with their fanbase and continue performing their classic catalog alongside new material.
1991-1992

Final World Tour and Continued Success

The band's final world tour took place between 1991 and 1992, drawing enormous crowds and selling over 7 million tickets. The tour demonstrated that Dire Straits retained strong global appeal despite shifts in the music industry and the band's lineup. Their live performances were praised for musicianship and energy, culminating in a farewell to fans as they wrapped up their touring career. This tour encapsulated nearly fifteen years of international success and influence.
1995

Final Disbandment of Dire Straits

Dire Straits officially disbanded in June 1995, ending an 18-year career. Mark Knopfler decided to focus on his burgeoning solo career, which allowed him greater artistic freedom. Though the band's music remained popular and influential, Knopfler declined numerous reunion offers, emphasizing a desire to move forward rather than look back. The disbandment marked the close of a significant chapter in British rock history, leaving a legacy of timeless songs and albums.
2018 and Beyond

Legacy and Recognition

Dire Straits were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2018, a testament to their enduring impact on music. Having sold over 100 million records worldwide, their influence spans generations of musicians and fans. Mark Knopfler has confirmed he will not reunite the band, highlighting Dire Straits' legacy as a defining force of 1980s rock. Their music continues to be celebrated for its distinctive guitar work, storytelling, and contribution to the evolution of rock music.

Albums

dire-straits_1st_album
Dire Straits
9 tracks
1978
dire-straits_2nd_album
Communiqué
9 tracks
1979
dire-straits_3rd_album
Making Movies
7 tracks
1980
dire-straits_4th_album
Love Over Gold
5 tracks
1982
dire-straits_5th_album
Brothers in Arms
9 tracks
1985
dire-straits_6th_album
On Every Street
12 tracks
1991
Sponsor content

Members

History

Name
Begin
End
Occupation

Mark Knopfler

1977
1995

Guitar

Lead vocals

Terry Williams

1982
1988

Membranophone

Pick Withers

1977
1982

Membranophone

Chris White

1985
1992

Saxophone

Additional

Hal Lindes

1980
1985

Guitar

John Illsley

1977
1995

Bass guitar

Guy Fletcher

1984
1995

Keyboard

Alan Clark

1980
1995

Keyboard

David Knopfler

1977
1980

Guitar

Story of Dire Straits

Dire Straits: Masters of the Roots Rock Sound

Dire Straits, formed in London in 1977, became a global phenomenon with their unique blend of rock, country, folk, and blues. Led by the legendary guitarist and vocalist Mark Knopfler, the band's core lineup included his brother David Knopfler on rhythm guitar, John Illsley on bass, and Pick Withers on drums.

Their debut single, "Sultans of Swing," catapulted them to international fame, reaching the top ten in both the UK and US. A string of hits followed, including "Romeo and Juliet," "Private Investigations," "Twisting by the Pool," "Money for Nothing," and "Walk of Life," solidifying their status as one of the most popular bands of the 80s.

Their 1985 album, Brothers in Arms, became a cultural touchstone, selling over 30 million copies worldwide and marking a pivotal moment in music history as the first album to sell a million copies on CD. It remains the eighth best-selling album in UK history.

Dire Straits' stripped-down sound, a departure from the prevailing punk rock scene, was deeply rooted in pub rock and showcased influences ranging from J.J. Cale's blues-rock to jazz. While personnel changes occurred throughout their career, Mark Knopfler and John Illsley remained the constant core of the band.

The band's first breakup in 1988 left a void in the music landscape. In a candid interview with Rolling Stone, Mark Knopfler acknowledged the band's immense success, stating, "A lot of press reports were saying we were the biggest band in the world." Dire Straits left an enduring legacy, their music still resonating with audiences worldwide.

Sponsor content

Learn more about Dire Straits

Bands you may like