Dire Straits was a British rock band, formed in 1977 by frontman Mark Knopfler (guitar and vocals), his brother David Knopfler (guitar), John Illsley (bass) and Pick Withers (drums), and managed by Ed Bicknell. Although the band was formed in an era when punk rock reigned, Dire Straits worked within the conventions of "classic" rock, albeit with a stripped-down sound that appealed to modern audiences weary of the overproduced stadium rock of the 1970s. Unusual in their early days in that Mark and David used small low wattage combo amps, allowing pub patrons to converse while the band played. Despite this oddly self-effacing approach to rock and roll, Dire Straits eventually became hugely successful. Because of their unique sound and style some still consider them one of the greatest bands in the genre. (disputed — see talk page)

Their most famous songs include: "Sultans of Swing", "Romeo and Juliet", "Money for Nothing", "Tunnel of Love", "Walk of Life", "So Far Away", "Skateaway" and "Brothers in Arms".