On July 13th, 1985, Wembley Stadium was the center of the music universe. The stage was set for Live Aid. One of the most iconic charity concerts in history, drawing over a billion viewers across the globe. But for the legendary British rock band Dire Straits, the night held double duty — and a logistical challenge that bordered on the impossible.
Two Venues. One Band. One Night.
As many fans were quick to point out in letters and messages at the time, Dire Straits had already been booked to play at Wembley Arena on the very same night as Live Aid, located just next door to the stadium. So how could they possibly appear at both?
The answer? Dedication, coordination, and a whole lot of running.
In a special fan communication (pictured above), the band explained the plan. Organizers gave each act at Live Aid just 20 minutes on stage. That tight window allowed the band to soundcheck at the Arena, then dash across to the Stadium, perform for Live Aid’s massive audience at around 6:00 pm, and rush back again for their own full-length concert later that night.
The band knew it would be “totally chaotic,” but the cause — raising money for famine relief in Ethiopia — was far more important than convenience. So they made it happen.
A Night to Remember — For the World and the Fans
For those not lucky enough to attend the Dire Straits gig at Wembley Arena, the advice was simple: stay tuned to your TV. Broadcasters aired Live Aid live across the world, making it one of the first truly global television events. Viewers witnessed unforgettable performances from Queen, U2, David Bowie, and yes — Dire Straits, sharing the stage with Sting for a rendition of “Money for Nothing.”
But fans attending the Arena concert weren’t left out either — just reminded to arrive early. With Wembley area traffic expected to be overwhelming (and with Bruce Springsteen having played nearby just a week earlier), the band wanted to make sure everyone made it in smoothly.
In fact, Dire Straits themselves planned to sneak in part of Springsteen’s show on July 6th, before heading back for their own gig — showing just how much they were fans of the music, too.
A Moment in Music History
Live Aid wasn’t just a concert; it was a moment when the music world united for a cause. And for Dire Straits, it was a night that proved their commitment to both their fans and the greater good.
Two stages. One night. And a performance seen by more than a billion people — it doesn’t get more rock ‘n’ roll than that.
Today marks the 40th anniversary of Live Aid, which took place at Wembley Stadium in 1985.
Dire Straits’ performance at the event concerned a number of fans as the band were scheduled to perform their own headline show that same evening at Wembley Arena, prompting this fan club notice.
“I’m sure it will be totally chaotic, but it’s for a really good cause…”
💬 What Do You Remember?
Were you watching Live Aid when Dire Straits took the stage? Have a story from the 1985 Wembley shows? Drop it in the comments — let’s relive this legendary night together.
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