Dire Straits
Latest about Dire Straits

“Let me know if you like it or you think I ruined it!” Dire Straits’ Sultans of Swing becomes Sultans of Shred as Sophie Lloyd gives the guitar anthem a high-gain makeover
By Matt Owen published
Mark Knopfler's sultry single-coil runs get given a generous injection of searing shred tones in Lloyd's latest cover

“A genuine guitar enthusiast who loved to play, jam, and talk guitars and amps all day”: Dire Straits’ ‘other guitarist’ Jack Sonni passes away, aged 68
By Matt Parker published
Mark Knopfler has paid tribute to the US guitarist who played and performed through the band’s globe-stomping Brothers in Arms era – and even worked on the first Line 6 POD

How to play Money for Nothing on guitar
By Chris Bird published
Learn how to play Dire Straits' biggest riff – and how to nail its distinctive tone

Learn the rhythm and lead secrets of Mark Knopfler with this in-depth guitar lesson
By Andy Saphir published
It's time to ditch the pick and go fingerstyle for this comprehensive tutorial in the Dire Straits legend's unique style

Learn Mark Knopfler’s game-changing rhythm and lead styles
By Martin Cooper published
Phrasing and dynamics are the order of the day in this tutorial on the immaculate playing style of the Dire Straits guitar legend

John Illsley reflects on Dire Straits' stadium-rocking success, the pressure it put on Mark Knopfler, and tells us what makes a great bass part
By Joe Shooman last updated
The bass player conquered the world with Dire Straits and as he reflects on his time in a new memoir, and a new solo album, he can say they survived: “We stayed intact, and stayed friends”

Eric Clapton and Mark Knopfler perform Cocaine in 1988
By Damian Fanelli published
An inspired, guest-star filled performance

Hear Mark Knopfler's isolated guitar from Sultans of Swing
By Guitar World Staff published
Sorry for yet another isolated guitar track, but we couldn't let this one go by. You'll agree when you start listening to it
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