This retro article takes us back to 1979, when Dire Straits’ 1979 success was beginning to grow around the world. Originally written by Angie Errigo and published in Observer Magazine on June 10, 1979, this article captures the early years of the British rock band and their unexpected rise to international fame.
At that time, Dire Straits were becoming a unique example of a British band that achieved major success overseas before receiving full recognition at home.
Dire Straits’ Unexpected Rise Around the World
Dire Straits became the latest example of a British group that found international success while still waiting for wider acceptance in their own country.
Their debut album, Dire Straits, achieved gold, platinum, and double platinum status in the United States, Australia, and across Europe. However, British audiences needed more time before fully embracing the band.
Meanwhile, the album slowly climbed the UK charts. After appearing in and out of the lower Top 40 several times, the band finally gained major attention following the renewed success of their year-old single “Sultans of Swing.”
By that point, Mark Knopfler, David Knopfler, John Illsley, and Pick Withers were already attracting audiences around the world. The band achieved number-one positions in countries they had not even visited yet and impressed fans throughout America.
“We don’t know what the hell’s going on,” John Illsley admitted before the band started what became a six-month world tour. “There’s no way we’d have called a halt if the thing had only sold 5,000, but it’s wonderful.”
Mark Knopfler’s Unique Sound and Dire Straits’ Future
Dire Straits’ music, especially Mark Knopfler’s songwriting and distinctive vocal style, attracted comparisons with artists such as Bob Dylan and Lou Reed.
Although these comparisons were sometimes viewed as criticism, they also highlighted the universal appeal of the band’s music. Their worldwide sales proved that Dire Straits had created a sound that connected with listeners everywhere.
Furthermore, the band was already preparing for the next chapter of their career. Their second album, Communiqué, was recorded in the Bahamas in December 1978 and was expected to continue the success of their debut record.
Looking back today, this 1979 article shows an important moment in music history. Dire Straits were no longer an unknown British band. They were becoming a worldwide phenomenon, with “Sultans of Swing” leading the way.
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