Product Description
“Sultans of Swing” is a song by British rock band Dire Straits from their eponymous debut album, which band frontman Mark Knopfler wrote and composed. Although it was first released in 1978, it was its 1979 re-release that caused it to become a hit in both the UK and U.S.
The song was recorded at Pathway Studios, North London, in July 1977 and quickly acquired a following after it was put on rotation at Radio London. Its popularity soon reached record executives, and Dire Straits were offered a contract with Phonogram Records. The song was then re-recorded in February 1978 at Basing Street Studios for the band’s debut album. The record company wanted a less-polished rock sound for the radio, so an alternative version was recorded at Pathway Studios in April 1978 and released as the single in some countries including the United.
Knopfler has improvised and expanded the solo during live performances. The coda of the live recording on the 1984 album Alchemy stretches the song to nearly 11 minutes, likewise with the band’s performance at Live Aid. At the 1988 Nelson Mandela 70th Birthday Tribute concert in London, Eric Clapton teamed up with the band, providing rhythm guitar.
Personnel:
– Mark Knopfler: Vocals and lead guitar.
– John Illsley: Bass and backing vocals.
– Hal Lindes: Rhythm guitar and backing vocals.
– Alan Clark: Keyboards.
– Terry Williams: Drums.
