Dire Straits

Dire Straits were a British rock band formed in 1977 and active until 1995, led by guitarist and singer-songwriter Mark Knopfler. Their music blended rock with blues, country, and jazz influences, built around Knopfler's restrained fingerstyle guitar and narrative, conversational lyrics. Emerging from the UK pub rock scene, they were associated with a clean, melodic guitar sound and streamlined arrangements that emphasized musicianship and storytelling.