Mark Knopfler is a guitarist, singer, songwriter, and bandleader. His group,
Dire Straits, was formed in London in 1977 and went on to become an international success after the release of its debut album in 1978. Though it began as a group with a permanent lineup led by
Knopfler, in its first few years it evolved into a brand name for
Knopfler with varying personnel. Starting with Local Hero in 1983,
Knopfler has scored several motion pictures. He has also recorded with
Chet Atkins and with
the Notting Hillbillies. In 1995,
Knopfler quietly laid
Dire Straits to rest. He launched a full-fledged solo career with the release of Golden Heart in 1996; subsequent soundtrack efforts include 1998's Wag the Dog, 1998's Metroland, and 2002's Shot at Glory. Sailing to Philadelphia, a lush collection of
folk-rock and breezy
americana that featured guest appearances by
James Taylor,
Van Morrison, and
Squeeze leaders
Glenn Tilbrook and
Chris Difford, appeared in fall 2000, and Ragpicker's Dream followed in 2002. In 2003, on the way to rehearsals in London,
Knopfler broke his collarbone, shoulder, and seven ribs in a motorcycle crash. He returned in 2004 with Shangri-La, and in 2006 he completed All the Road Running, a collaboration with
Emmylou Harris recorded over the span of nearly seven years that also found life as a live CD/DVD release (Real Live Roadrunning) later that November. Kill to Get Crimson appeared in 2007, and Get Lucky in 2009. ~ William Ruhlmann, All Music Guide