Review
Sultans of Swing is a masterclass in guitar-driven storytelling—Dire Straits deliver smooth, bluesy rock with effortless cool, anchored by Mark Knopfler’s iconic fingerstyle riffs and laid-back vocals.
Info
Sultans of Swing is the breakout hit from Dire Straits’ self-titled debut album, released in 1978. Written by frontman Mark Knopfler, the song blends rock, jazz, and blues influences with Knopfler’s signature fingerpicking guitar style. Recorded on a modest budget, the album gained attention for its stripped-down sound, a contrast to the heavily produced rock of the late '70s. Sultans of Swing became an international hit, praised for its lyrical storytelling and fluid guitar work. The success of the song helped launch Dire Straits’ career, establishing them as a unique voice in rock and laying the groundwork for future acclaim.
Tracklisting
- Sultans Of Swing
- Lady Writer
- Romeo And Juliet
- Tunnel Of Love
- Private Investigations - Edit
- Twisting By The Pool
- Love Over Gold - Live At Hammersmith Odeon, London/1983
- So Far Away
- Money For Nothing - Edit
- Brothers In Arms - Edit
- Walk Of Life
- Calling Elvis - Radio Edit
- Heavy Fuel
- On Every Street - 7" Radio Edit
- Your Latest Trick - Live At Les Arenes, Nimes / France / 1993
- Local Hero / Wild Theme - Live At Les Arenes, Nimes / France / 1993
- Calling Elvis - Live At The Royal Albert Hall
- Walk Of Life - Live At The Royal Albert Hall
- Last Exit To Brooklyn - Live At The Royal Albert Hall
- Romeo And Juliet - Live At The Royal Albert Hall