"Mark Knopfler discusses the iconic opening four-note guitar riff of 'Brothers in Arms', stating that its significance contributes to the song's recognition"
Forty years have passed since the release of Dire Straits' iconic album, Brothers in Arms. To celebrate this milestone, Mark Knopfler, the band's legendary six-stringer, shared insights into the songwriting process of the key tracks on this seminal album in an exclusive interview published on our website.
Knopfler primarily used a Gibson Les Paul for key songs on Brothers in Arms, including the album’s title track. His smooth, emotional lead tones on “Brothers in Arms” are notably associated with the Les Paul sound, which offers a chunkier, more powerful tone compared to his earlier Fender Stratocaster used in songs like “Sultans of Swing”. A 1959 Gibson Les Paul model, famous for its vintage PAF humbucker pickups, sustained tone, and beautiful mahogany/maple construction, was among the guitars Knopfler used during this era.
One of the standout tracks on Brothers in Arms is “Watch On”, which almost comes from a fingerstyle perspective, a style that is significant to where Knopfler is from. According to Knopfler, this song was inspired by ZZ Top’s boogie style, particularly Gimme All Your Lovin. However, it's worth noting that no direct mention or evidence of ZZ Top influence was found in the provided sources.
Knopfler's signature tone is generally linked to his fingerpicking technique, choice of guitars like the Fender Strat and Gibson Les Paul, and amp setups emphasizing clarity and responsiveness, rather than explicit inspiration from ZZ Top’s style.
Another notable track is “Money for Nothing”, played on a '83 Les Paul by Knopfler, and featured a clawhammer playing style. Knopfler also mentioned his jams with fingerstyle legend Chet Atkins in the interview, but the specific details of these sessions remain undisclosed.
Intriguingly, Knopfler confesses that the first four notes of Brothers in Arms are crucial and cannot be replaced. After playing these initial notes, he can start to improvise.
The interview provides insights into Knopfler’s guitar playing style and his collaborations, but it does not specify which rock hero gave Knopfler a treasured Gibson as a gift.
For those interested in exploring more about Knopfler's musical journey and the making of Brothers in Arms, the exclusive interview on our website is a must-read.
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