Released in 1979, “Lady Writer” is a classic rock song by the British band Dire Straits. Notably, this song is the first song on the second side of the Communique album. Written by the band’s lead vocalist and guitarist Mark Knopfler, the song features a catchy melody and thoughtful lyrics that have made it a fan favorite over the years.
“Lady Writer” is not only a catchy tune, but it also has a fascinating backstory. The song’s inspiration came from Marina Warner, whom songwriter Mark Knopfler saw on a TV program. It is worth noting that the opening line of the song, “Lady Writer on the TV,” refers to Warner’s appearance on the show. What’s more, it is interesting to learn that in 1976, Warner published a scholarly book about the cult of the Virgin Mary, showcasing her as a highly educated polyglot.
According to Mark Knopfler, the journalist had a particular style of writing that he admired. As a tribute to her, he wrote the song “Lady Writer.” Additionally, Mark Knopfler played the distinctive guitar riff in the song on one of his favorite instruments, a 1958 Gibson Les Paul guitar.
Warner’s appearance on the show struck Knopfler, causing him to relive the pain of a lost love. Consequently, the lyrics of the song reveal a sense of bitterness, implying that any resemblance between Warner and Knopfler’s former lover was strictly physical.
Despite its dark backstory, the song has a positive message about the power of words and the impact they can have on a listener. The lyrics suggest that a talented writer can bring light into someone’s life and make them feel better than they could ever imagine. Fans continue to love the enduring classic because of its catchy melody and upbeat tempo.
Musically, “Lady Writer” is a prime example of Dire Straits’ signature sound, which combines elements of rock, jazz, and blues. The song begins with a catchy guitar riff and features a laid-back rhythm section that creates a relaxed vibe throughout. Knopfler’s vocals are melodic and expressive. Not only is his guitar playing intricate and dynamic, but it also provides the perfect accompaniment to the song’s lyrics.
The “Lady Writer” music video was directed by Lester Bookbinder and features the band performing the song on a rooftop in New York City. Furthermore, the video not only features the band performing the song but also includes shots of them walking around the city and interacting with fans.
Lyrically, “Lady Writer” is a tribute to the power of words and the impact they can have on a listener. The song describes a writer who is a “lady of the mountain” and whose words can “make you feel much better than you could know.”
The song’s chorus repeats the phrase “Lady Writer on the TV” as a way of emphasizing the idea that words can have a profound effect on people even when they are delivered through a screen.
Despite its catchy melody and thoughtful lyrics, “Lady Writer” was not released as a single in the UK and did not chart on the UK Singles Chart. However, the song did reach #45 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the US and #6 on the US Mainstream Rock chart. It remains a fan favorite and is often included in Dire Straits’ live performances.
“Lady Writer” by Dire Straits has enjoyed both live and recorded success since its release. The song was played live by the band on their 1980 tour and became a staple feature of their live shows throughout the 1980s. Furthermore, the song has been covered by a number of artists over the years, including the iconic Joan Baez, The Blues Band, and the Polish rock band TSA.
Overall, “Lady Writer” is a classic rock gem that showcases Dire Straits’ musical prowess and Knopfler’s songwriting skills. The song’s catchy melody and thoughtful lyrics, coupled with its fascinating backstory and memorable music video, not only make it a standout track on the band’s second album, “Communiqué,” but also a must-listen for fans of classic rock.
Lyrics
Lady writer on the TV
Talk about the Virgin Mary
Reminded me of you
Expectation left to come up to yeah
Lady writer on the TV
She had another quality
The way you used to look
And I know you never read a book
Just the way that her hair fell down around her face
And I recall my fall from grace
Another time, another place
Lady writer on the TV
She had all the brains and the beauty
The pictures does not fit
You’d talk to me when you felt like it
Just the way that her hair fell down around her face
And I recall my fall from grace
Another time another place
Yes and your rich old man,
You know he’d a call her a dead ringer
You got the same command
Plus your mother was a Jazz singer
Just the way that her hair fell down around her face
And I recall my fall from grace
Another time another place
Lady writer on the TV
She knew all about a history
You couldn’t hardly write your name
I think I want it just the same as the …
Lady writer on the TV
Talking about the Virgin Mary
You know I’m talking about you and me
And the lady writer on the TV
Talking about the Virgin Mary
Yeah you know I’m talking about you and me
And the lady writer on the TV
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