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Mark Knopfler: A Modest Guitar Hero

Mark Knopfler

Mark Knopfler.

Set List

  • "The Fizzy and the Still"
  • "Postcards from Paraguay"
  • "Brothers in Arms"

November 19, 2007In Mark Knopfler's own words, "Music's just a very humbling experience all around." But it's hard to deny the former Dire Straits frontman's status as a bona fide guitar hero: He played some of the definitive riffs and solos of the '80s, and he's been releasing widely beloved albums ever since. With his graceful guitar work, genial baritone and ability to create distinct characters in his songs, Knopfler has been an iconic figure in popular music for more than three decades.

From Dire Straits' first hit "Sultans Of Swing" to blockbuster albums like 1985's Brothers In Arms to his recent collaborations with Emmylou Harris, Knopfler has remained highly relevant. He's worked with a diverse group of artists, including Harris, Chet Atkins, Bob Dylan, Tina Turner and Eric Clapton. And he's carved out a parallel career as a film composer, having written and performed soundtracks for movies such as Local Hero, The Princess Bride and Wag The Dog.

This segment originally aired Oct. 5, 2007.

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Based in Philadelphia, WXPN takes listeners on a journey of music discovery through new and heritage rock, blues, roots, and folk artists. WXPN also produces NPR's World Cafe.

 

 

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