Not only is Mark Knopfler one of the greatest musicians - a finger plucking virtuoso guitarist on electric and acoustic guitar - Mark is also one of the greatest storytelling songwriters covering a wide range of musical genres. Most of his songs are storytelling masterpieces interwoven with lyrical musical solos.
No one ever touched a fretboard like Mark Knopfler. He feels his way through the song with both his guitar and voice. And he nails the beauty out of the sadness of war. He wrings every last bit of emotion out of the notes without ever overdoing it.
@@oldsoldier4u814 I would happily add Gary Moore and Guthrie Govan as well. Check out The Loner and Drive Home respectively for amazing soulful and emotive guitar solos.
Very few actually know that this was about the British Falkland War or for The Malvinas War, against Argentina in 1982. This was an statement for the insanity of the wars and especially the reasons behind them.... That one was a short war as British still have and had back in those days a very cabable military really comparable to Israeli Military today. US, is a different thing and India and China of course. But UK military is very devoted with up to date weapons and they have one of the most demanding training and approval test for special forces in the world. And also nuclear weapons. Now that my country is an offcial member of NATO, we have this agreement on helping each others no matter what, but the funny thing is that these border countries like mine are increasing their military expenses and the alliance is stronger than ever... so that didn't quite went so well fotr those whos still tried same tricks and influence as durinng the cold war. Even Sweden, a country that haven't fougt a single war in about 200 years joined NATO after Finland did so nations are choosing their sides because the world has polarized more than ever. It isn't even the old school west east dilemma, Its way more than that.
😢 I've heard this dozens of times and still...it gets me. As musicians, we hope to connect with people. He emotes so powerfully, that the connection is immediately imminent. Your reaction was absolutely spot on Aaliyah. 🌹
Word is the song was inspired by the Falklands War of 1982, but it could be from the point of view of any soldier on any battlefield ever. It's rare for a (relatively) contemporary song to have such a timeless quality.
it absolutely IS magic. it's like a spell he casts, sound is made of vibrating air molecules, hitting your eardrum, he plucks a string and makes us cry. even if you didn't understand the lyrics, or they were absent, being able to affect someone's mood so profoundly with pure sound, if that isn't magic I don't know what might be.
Nobody builds a vibe incrementally better than Dire Straits. By the end the song is elevated significantly without even noticing it...for more upbeat, Romeo and Juliet, Sultans of Swing (live), Telegraph Road, Love Over Gold
This song is unbelievably incredible live from Dire Straits "On The Night" 1993. Every reactor I've seen said it had a huge impact on them. Theres a longer guitar solo at the end that's spine chilling. Anyway love your channel and reaction. Cheers all the best from Australia 👍🎸🎸🎸
@@kentl7228 I loved that performance too but the sound quality isn't as good and the camera mostly focused on his right hand only for a lot of the time or his face, which is fine of course. But I love watching what he does with the fingers of his left hand, being left handed, has so much strength and control. They don't show it much.
Dire Straits' classics, "Money For Nothing," "Sultans of Swing," "Walk of Life," "Romeo and Juliet," and "So Far Away" are definitely worth checking out. There are many more songs that are great, but these will get you started.
I don't know why the description put it so generally. It's about a soldier in the Falklands War, which was fought between Britain and Argentina in 1982 when Argentina invaded the Falkland Islands, British territory.
That'll be because it is NOT about a soldier in the Falklands War. It is generic in it's description of war in general. The Rotoscoped images of the soldiers are of First World War soldiers not Falkland War soldiers. While the inspiration for it may have been the Falklands War it is not about that war in particular.
@@jedislap8726 It’s not solely about the Falklands, but it definitely was inspired by the Falklands to the extent that it was written during the conflict. The narrative of the song is from the viewpoint of a dying soldier reflecting on the ultimate futility of war and the bonds formed between soldiers. You really are picking up the op on a very minor technicality, since the link to the specific conflict is clear and does deserve a mention.
All those subtle twists and turns, the way he phrases his melodies, his use of dynamics, timing, attack... Knopfler's guitar draws you in in a way that normally only a human voice accomplishes.
Although you are young you have a very mature way of analyzing the singing, the music and the thematic material. I’ve seen this song and video bring people to tears. Although this song was written during the Falklands war and there are some subtle visual references it can be, as you mentioned, about any war. One of the British ships that was sunk was the HMS Sheffield. One of my cousins was on that ship but fortunately he survived.
There are two very characteristic things about Mark Knopfler. The first is he call and response between guitar and vocals; he isn't just playing both but they are like one voice. The second is that while the guitar technique is complex, the vocal technique sounds simple. All he is doing is ensuring that every syllable is dead on the rhythm, every note is pitch perfect and emotionally on point. But actually he getting all the basics of vocal delivery so perfect that flashy technique becomes surplus to requirements.
Ty Aaliyah, I love your reactions sooooooo much. I predict you will not forget this song as it has a tendency to haunt people for the rest of their lives. Mark Knopfler is a talent that is near incomparable. This song, with a perspective of a dying soldier, makes me cry every single time. The power of the words, the tone of the "simplistic" guitar is unforgettable...haunting.
I struggle in choosing favorites and often their Romeo & Juliet and this song compete for my mostest favoritestest but I will always eventually come down on the side of BIA.... what a stunning masterpiece in just so many million ways.
Song is worth more listens. Think this song is one of those songs that get better the more you listen to it. Liked his mellow voice. Great song and as always, great reaction.😊
I'm an old veteran (US Army, Infantry) who has listened to this song hundreds of times. It always grabs me someplace deep down inside, hard to describe it accurately. Love this band, love Mark Knopfler. If you'd like another great example of Mark Knopfler's work (vocal and guitar) to analyze or react to (or just to close your eyes and enjoy), I highly recommend his "LIGHTS OF TAORMINA" ua-cam.com/video/4pyWTF20cgM/v-deo.html
I'm glad you have a song that speaks to you. The courage to fight for freedom is something to be admired. It is one thing to sympathise, but another to empathise and truly understand what the public cannot imagine.
perhaps the greatest, certainly the most soulful guitar performance of all time. not flashy and technical, but it's like a haiku, just a few notes, but exactly the right ones, placed perfectly in time and space. genius. the lyrics, the video, the whole package brilliantly put together, pure art, with a profound message. one of the greatest songs of all time.
Almost unparalelled musicianship by all member of this band. They gave themselves the name of Dire /straits because in the beginning of their career, they were in fact on dire straits, breadline or less. Then Sultans of Swing became a hit, the rest is history. I recommend Private investigations and Telegraph Road. Great reaction young lady. And your voice is beautiful.
Young lady, you are the most polite and respectful individual in your area of expertise that I have come across. I am quite sure your parents are extremely proud of you. I certainly enjoy watching your reactions. As for Mark Knophler, Eric Clapton has referred to him as the greatest guitar player ever. I would suggest that you listen and react to "questions in a world of blue" by Julee Cruise - her voice has been described as "that of an angel". I believe listening to her is something that will be of tremendous value to you. Keep up the great work, and sincere best wishes as your career progresses. Lots of love ❤️ from Canada 🇨🇦
You carry yourself very well young lady! Your politeness and respect is respected indeed. Eric Clapton, once referred to Mark Knophler as the greatest guitarist ever - keep up the good work, young lady, and best of luck to you ii your career.
Mark Knopfler is an amazing guitarist but also a very gifted composer. He has scored several movies. "The Princess Bride", "Romeo and Juliet", "Altimera" and I think others.
When it comes to Mark Knopfler, 'multi-talented' might even be an understatement 😉. Not only was Mark a guitar virtuoso, but he was also the skilled story-teller/poet, song-writer and composer for the band. Fun Fact: In addition to his unique sound, the fact that he is a finger-plucking genius, his ability to produce complex emotions and nuanced transitions with and through his guitar... Mark was actually left handed but was playing guitar with his right, whilst making it all look so easy! Mark wrote this song after he lost a friend in the Falklands; it's written from the POV of the dying soldier who is realizing he's not going to make it home. The final line is a warning, more broadly, about making war against our fellow man. It would really be worth your time to check out a live performance of this song (Dire Straits is always better live and Mark's extended, emotional and soaring solos are astonishing): There are two to choose from, the performance from "On the Night" live, or the performance at Nelson Mandela's birthday party at Wembley. If you want a breathtaking example of the kind of epic musical masterpiece this band could collectively produce, treat yourself and watch "Telegraph Road" from the Alchemy Live concert. Another very different but spectacular example of Mark's talent is also on display in "Once Upon a Time in the West, also from 'Alchemy Live'.
Many people say Mark Knopfler "sings" with his guitar...something I agree with, having listened to almost all of his music since 1979. Keep that in mind as you enjoy his music.
Mark is a brilliant musician, so much of his work can be considered classics. The soulful beauty of this track captures the sadness of war, not forgetting the thought attributed to that famous philosopher A nonymous: 'War does not determine who is right, only who is left' (often falsely attributed to Bertrand Russell), and Russell's quote: “Either Man will abolish war, or war will abolish Man.”.
No. His mates never failed him, and while he died, he understood even his killer is his brother. So even if the song describes a dark world it also hints it doesn't have to be.
Kamusta na, dear Aaliyah. It's always a joy to see your reactions, especially to songs I grew up with. I had the great fortune to see Dire Straits a few times, the last one when they were touring for this album. After a short intermission, Mark Knopfler opened the second half of the show by sitting alone on the front edge of the stage playing this song with only his 12 string acoustic guitar to accompany him. It was both beautiful and haunting. Dire Straits is a band well worth delving into, with so many fantastic tracks to explore. Another song I highly recommend is Alvin Lee's Bluest Blues. The vocals and guitar work are gorgeous! Ingat ka, kaibigan! Oh, and my granddaughter in Cavite, Alliyah, is now 6 months old ♥
The first time I heard this was in the Miami Vice episode "Out Where the Buses Don't Run" and it was electrifying. The aching melancholy of the song in the stunning scene it played in is one of the high points of cinema.
This song makes me cry every time I hear it. It’s like his guitar is pleading with him not to go, and to come home. In the end,… he doesn’t, and the guitar just wails through the end of the song.
The fact that you dive deep with context, connecting the actual music with the video, and of course the lyrics, makes it real and adds clarity to the entire song. Thank you for that!
Ooh, an oldie! I was lucky enough to see them live, unforgettable. We are always learning. Mark really makes his guitar sing. Armed conflict, the camaraderie created by urgent need. "We're fools to make war on our brothers in arms". I've watched a military veteran reacting to this song, it nearly broke him. Thank you.
This is a masterpiece (like all songs from the Dire Straits), a musical and emotional journey, and the most moving song ever. Having survived a war as a child, this song speaks volumes to my soul…Mark’s astonishing storytelling (from the perspective of a dying soldier in the Falkland Islands War, adding some anti-war morals in the last verses) and musical genius send shivers to my whole being. The heyday of this song is Mark’s guitar mourning and weeping. Listening to this song (and the original video clip) should be mandatory to those who stand for wars or segregation. Thank you for reacting to the best band ever, with top musicians, and to one of their best songs. These guys are Gods of music! Also check their performance Live Mandela Tribute 1988 at Wembley
Grandísima canción, un clásico, leí que estaba inspirada en alguien cercano a Mark, en la guerra de las Malvinas o Falklands ,y fue herido, que bueno que hayas escuchado este" Temazo" genuina reacción, saludos 🙏💪, amo tu sonrisa
One of the best bands of the late 70s and 80s. This has always been my favourite song of theirs. I would also recommend you check out "Romeo and Juliet" , "Sultans of Swing" and "Tunnel of Love".
Right after this song came out it was used in the final scene of an episode of the hit TV show "Miami Vice", the music accompanied the somberness of the scene so well and made it the most powerful scene in the series IMO.
@@AaliyahCapili You're welcome! And thank you for the video. I love this song and loved your reaction. ❤ I would add one point, people rightfully focus on Mark Knopfler's incredible vocals and guitar, but the keyboards create such atmosphere and add so much depth. They really help create that slow build-up to the powerful end of the song. Just such an amazing song.
Love seeing the progressions you're making through your videos as you mature! Mark Knopfler is one of the best guitarist to have ever lived. This song may not be his most well known worldwide but it is well known amongst the Veteran community and still my favorite. Keep em' coming :-)
This live version is even more moving than the studio version: ua-cam.com/video/Z3_HTGdLXL4/v-deo.html ( Mark Knopfler - Brothers In Arms (A Night In London | Official Live Video) )
Touching reaction for a touching song. It’s just a shame that the MV was tailored for the singles market, cutting the closing solo just as it begins to bite.
Another great artist with similar guitar sound + singing is Chris Rea - "The Road to Hell , Part 1 + 2 ".. This song + "Brothers in Arms" are 2 songs that will live on forever.. :)
Just putting a plug in to one day listen to Eva Cassidy. Not a well known artist because she sadly died way too young from cancer. But I think an impeccable voice and she had something in common with Mark Knopfler - the duet between her voice and her guitar. Listen to her singing Over The Rainbow - Live at Blues Alley. I don't think you will ever forget this performance
Back in the 80s when this song came out it was used in an episode of a show called Miami Vice. The episode was called "Out where the busses dont run. It was like a music video od its own.
If you love mark’s playing I would recommend you listen to his rendition of the tune, ‘Going home’ from the sound track of the film ‘Local Hero ’. It is magnificent.
Hey Aaliyah, sung from the perspective of a dying soldier on a battle field, reflecting back on life, leaving you with the perspective of the futility of war.
great !!!!!m Liked your reaction to that fantastic song !!!! "We have just one world .... but we live in different once .... ;) ... best song-line ever written in my opinion !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
This entire song was written over the Falkland War. In an interview with Bill Flanagan, Knopfler spoke about the need to get inside the character as a songwriter to do the story justice. “’Brothers in Arms’ is sung by a soldier who is dying on the battlefield,” he said. “You can’t just write off the top of your head; you have to dig deep to get those things. You have to experience, if a thing is really going to be realistic, if you’re gonna try and get whatever you feel across. So, in a sense you’re an outsider, but you’re also digging inside to do it properly. I don’t think you can get away scot-free with these things; otherwise, it’s just not going to work. If you stay outside of these experiences, they’re just not going to translate to people.” Mark explained it like this: “These mist-covered mountain, are a home now for me. But my home is the lowlands, and always will be” The lyric begins, contrasting that with the lowlands where he grew up and where he is, the mist covered mountains where he is laying terminally wounded on a battlefield. “Some day you'll return to your valleys and your farms. And you'll no longer burn to be brothers in arms” He foresees his death and a time when the war will be over and when those who survive the combat will leave the battlefield and return to their valleys and their farms, a fate he won’t enjoy. He also admires and cherishes his fellow soldiers’ bravery amidst the war’s chaos and tumult. Yet knowing there will come a time when the bond they have will fade and they will live their separate lives. “Through these fields of destruction, Baptisms of fire, I've witnessed your suffering. As the battle raged higher and though they did hurt me so bad. In the fear and alarm, you did not desert me, my brothers in arms” This is how he described the bonding of soldiers who were fighting next to each other, seeing their friends being injured and killed. The lyrics switch to the individual soldier once again. As he realized he has been seriously wounded and his buddies came to his aid and did not just leave him to die alone on the battlefield. “There's so many different worlds, So many different suns. And we have just one world, But we live in different ones.” Mark said, "that we can be neighbors and yet never share anything in common." He went on to say that most humans want the same things in life even though we all live in different places on the earth. “Now the sun's gone to hell, And the moon's riding high. Let me bid you farewell, every man has to die.” The sun has set and the moon is up, as the soldier knows he is about to pass. But he wants to convey to his buddies, that they shouldn't feel bad because of his death. “But it's written in the starlight, and every line in your palm. We're fools to make war, on our brothers in arms”. He described how destiny has been written, using the stars and the individual as examples. He went further to say: that in fact, we all have a destiny, yet we never take the time to yield to our fragility and how short our lives are. That most people take life for granted and fail to cherish everything that they are blessed with. This final lyric was a direct statement sent to soldiers. Saying that when politicians decide to go to war, that politicians should be the ones who are forced to fight the battles and soldiers are foolish to fight other soldiers for political gains. All the while, Knopfler’s allows his emotional and lyrical guitar to release the emotion pent up by the moody musical atmosphere and his controlled.
I just love seeing young people enjoying the great music I've enjoyed for decades , the very best of luck with your career❤ Pink Floyd Led Zeppelin Van Morrison and Leonard Cohen would be a few bands - Artists would encourage you to explore, might help lyrically ❤❤❤
To be quiet honest, while I really like the original recording, I have really come to appreciate the 1997 Music for Montserrat live recording of this song in the Royal Albert Hall, Orchestra included. In my opinion surely one of his best concerts ever, where you can really appreciate his growth as a musician. On top he actually plays his 1958 Les Paul, which is really an outstandingly impressive musical instrument.
@@DavidG-u2k You could also say about this video "I don't think anyone's reacted to that one yet!" I suspect that the Young Opers Singer won't have seen any of them, but the Alchemy one is a good starting point.....
In this song Mark is just the narrator, it's the guitar that does the singing.
Well said.
Not only is Mark Knopfler one of the greatest musicians - a finger plucking virtuoso guitarist on electric and acoustic guitar - Mark is also one of the greatest storytelling songwriters covering a wide range of musical genres. Most of his songs are storytelling masterpieces interwoven with lyrical musical solos.
No one ever touched a fretboard like Mark Knopfler. He feels his way through the song with both his guitar and voice. And he nails the beauty out of the sadness of war. He wrings every last bit of emotion out of the notes without ever overdoing it.
I would argue that David Gilmore from Pink Floyd plays as soulfully as Mark does. Both are two of my absolute favorite guitarists!
@@oldsoldier4u814 I would happily add Gary Moore and Guthrie Govan as well. Check out The Loner and Drive Home respectively for amazing soulful and emotive guitar solos.
Both are outstanding, their guitars are extensions of their voices@@oldsoldier4u814
Very few actually know that this was about the British Falkland War or for The Malvinas War, against Argentina in 1982. This was an statement for the insanity of the wars and especially the reasons behind them.... That one was a short war as British still have and had back in those days a very cabable military really comparable to Israeli Military today. US, is a different thing and India and China of course. But UK military is very devoted with up to date weapons and they have one of the most demanding training and approval test for special forces in the world. And also nuclear weapons. Now that my country is an offcial member of NATO, we have this agreement on helping each others no matter what, but the funny thing is that these border countries like mine are increasing their military expenses and the alliance is stronger than ever... so that didn't quite went so well fotr those whos still tried same tricks and influence as durinng the cold war. Even Sweden, a country that haven't fougt a single war in about 200 years joined NATO after Finland did so nations are choosing their sides because the world has polarized more than ever. It isn't even the old school west east dilemma, Its way more than that.
She forgot to mention he wrote the song as well
😢 I've heard this dozens of times and still...it gets me. As musicians, we hope to connect with people. He emotes so powerfully, that the connection is immediately imminent. Your reaction was absolutely spot on Aaliyah. 🌹
Word is the song was inspired by the Falklands War of 1982, but it could be from the point of view of any soldier on any battlefield ever. It's rare for a (relatively) contemporary song to have such a timeless quality.
Mark's specific technique produces the most beautiful guitar sound. It is mesmerizing to watch him play. It seems something magical is going on.
it absolutely IS magic. it's like a spell he casts, sound is made of vibrating air molecules, hitting your eardrum, he plucks a string and makes us cry. even if you didn't understand the lyrics, or they were absent, being able to affect someone's mood so profoundly with pure sound, if that isn't magic I don't know what might be.
One of the most beautiful duets in rock and pop history... Marks singing and his guitar singing 🥲
Perfect!
My local radio station always plays this directly after the silence on Armistice Day. Hugely moving.
@neil_BT Ask them to play Armistice Day by Midnight Oil. More rocky, but also powerful.
Nobody builds a vibe incrementally better than Dire Straits. By the end the song is elevated significantly without even noticing it...for more upbeat, Romeo and Juliet, Sultans of Swing (live), Telegraph Road, Love Over Gold
Planet of New Orleans, Speedway at Nazareth..
Sung from the perspective of a dying soldier on the battlefield in a far away land
It won a Grammy for best music video. My personal favorite too !
Knoffler has a beautifly unique, ans instantly recognizeable guitar picking style. A true guitar viftuoso!
This song is unbelievably incredible live from Dire Straits "On The Night" 1993. Every reactor I've seen said it had a huge impact on them. Theres a longer guitar solo at the end that's spine chilling. Anyway love your channel and reaction. Cheers all the best from Australia 👍🎸🎸🎸
It's good for sure, but what about the Mandela concert? Knopfler zoned out to just the music. He was feeling the gravity of the occasion.
@@kentl7228 I loved that performance too but the sound quality isn't as good and the camera mostly focused on his right hand only for a lot of the time or his face, which is fine of course. But I love watching what he does with the fingers of his left hand, being left handed, has so much strength and control. They don't show it much.
@@MinistryOfDarkness11 Fair points. This kind of discussion is opinion and not facts for either of us )
@@kentl7228 absolutely. Each to their own
You nailed it exactly -- almost every Dire Straits song is a duet between Mark's guitar and Mark's vocals. Well spotted.
Dire Straits' classics, "Money For Nothing," "Sultans of Swing," "Walk of Life," "Romeo and Juliet," and "So Far Away" are definitely worth checking out.
There are many more songs that are great, but these will get you started.
Well done, young lady! People like you are why so many of us serve worldwide! Enjoy your journey through life.
I don't know why the description put it so generally. It's about a soldier in the Falklands War, which was fought between Britain and Argentina in 1982 when Argentina invaded the Falkland Islands, British territory.
The description was AI generated. Enough said.
That'll be because it is NOT about a soldier in the Falklands War. It is generic in it's description of war in general. The Rotoscoped images of the soldiers are of First World War soldiers not Falkland War soldiers. While the inspiration for it may have been the Falklands War it is not about that war in particular.
@@jedislap8726 It’s not solely about the Falklands, but it definitely was inspired by the Falklands to the extent that it was written during the conflict. The narrative of the song is from the viewpoint of a dying soldier reflecting on the ultimate futility of war and the bonds formed between soldiers. You really are picking up the op on a very minor technicality, since the link to the specific conflict is clear and does deserve a mention.
I am surprised that the comments are not recommending "Sultans of Swing " live Alchemy version - absolute classic !!
All those subtle twists and turns, the way he phrases his melodies, his use of dynamics, timing, attack... Knopfler's guitar draws you in in a way that normally only a human voice accomplishes.
Your commentary is spot on...
This was a song about the Falklands war in 1982 and a mortality wounded soldier.
Although you are young you have a very mature way of analyzing the singing, the music and the thematic material. I’ve seen this song and video bring people to tears.
Although this song was written during the Falklands war and there are some subtle visual references it can be, as you mentioned, about any war.
One of the British ships that was sunk was the HMS Sheffield. One of my cousins was on that ship but fortunately he survived.
There are two very characteristic things about Mark Knopfler. The first is he call and response between guitar and vocals; he isn't just playing both but they are like one voice. The second is that while the guitar technique is complex, the vocal technique sounds simple. All he is doing is ensuring that every syllable is dead on the rhythm, every note is pitch perfect and emotionally on point. But actually he getting all the basics of vocal delivery so perfect that flashy technique becomes surplus to requirements.
Ty Aaliyah, I love your reactions sooooooo much. I predict you will not forget this song as it has a tendency to haunt people for the rest of their lives. Mark Knopfler is a talent that is near incomparable. This song, with a perspective of a dying soldier, makes me cry every single time. The power of the words, the tone of the "simplistic" guitar is unforgettable...haunting.
Piper to the End is sort of the next song in this theme...I am sure you know it.
Thanks so much for sharing💕
I struggle in choosing favorites and often their Romeo & Juliet and this song compete for my mostest favoritestest but I will always eventually come down on the side of BIA.... what a stunning masterpiece in just so many million ways.
Song is worth more listens. Think this song is one of those songs that get better the more you listen to it. Liked his mellow voice. Great song and as always, great reaction.😊
I'm an old veteran (US Army, Infantry) who has listened to this song hundreds of times. It always grabs me someplace deep down inside, hard to describe it accurately. Love this band, love Mark Knopfler. If you'd like another great example of Mark Knopfler's work (vocal and guitar) to analyze or react to (or just to close your eyes and enjoy), I highly recommend his "LIGHTS OF TAORMINA" ua-cam.com/video/4pyWTF20cgM/v-deo.html
I'm glad you have a song that speaks to you. The courage to fight for freedom is something to be admired. It is one thing to sympathise, but another to empathise and truly understand what the public cannot imagine.
perhaps the greatest, certainly the most soulful guitar performance of all time. not flashy and technical, but it's like a haiku, just a few notes, but exactly the right ones, placed perfectly in time and space. genius. the lyrics, the video, the whole package brilliantly put together, pure art, with a profound message. one of the greatest songs of all time.
Almost unparalelled musicianship by all member of this band. They gave themselves the name of Dire /straits because in the beginning of their career, they were in fact on dire straits, breadline or less. Then Sultans of Swing became a hit, the rest is history. I recommend Private investigations and Telegraph Road. Great reaction young lady. And your voice is beautiful.
Dire Straits , Sultans of Swing (alchemy live version) might just be the best thing you ever react to.
I believe Sultans of swing from the 1988 Mandela concert is the best version.
Anything from Alchemy Live. You will not regret it.
This song is a masterpiece and I’m glad you could check it out
Young lady, you are the most polite and respectful individual in your area of expertise that I have come across. I am quite sure your parents are extremely proud of you. I certainly enjoy watching your reactions.
As for Mark Knophler, Eric Clapton has referred to him as the greatest guitar player ever.
I would suggest that you listen and react to "questions in a world of blue" by Julee Cruise - her voice has been described as "that of an angel". I believe listening to her is something that will be of tremendous value to you.
Keep up the great work, and sincere best wishes as your career progresses.
Lots of love ❤️ from Canada 🇨🇦
You carry yourself very well young lady! Your politeness and respect is respected indeed.
Eric Clapton, once referred to Mark Knophler as the greatest guitarist ever - keep up the good work, young lady, and best of luck to you ii your career.
I Was 18 when Dire Straits emerged o the music scene. Brilliant Band.👍👍
I was also 18. The time went by so fast.
You gave very accurate description of this song.
Mark Knopfler is an amazing guitarist but also a very gifted composer. He has scored several movies. "The Princess Bride", "Romeo and Juliet", "Altimera" and I think others.
Thanks for sharing🥰
Beautiful Aliyaah. Nice to see you again! Lovely reaction as always. You are great.
When it comes to Mark Knopfler, 'multi-talented' might even be an understatement 😉. Not only was Mark a guitar virtuoso, but he was also the skilled story-teller/poet, song-writer and composer for the band. Fun Fact: In addition to his unique sound, the fact that he is a finger-plucking genius, his ability to produce complex emotions and nuanced transitions with and through his guitar... Mark was actually left handed but was playing guitar with his right, whilst making it all look so easy! Mark wrote this song after he lost a friend in the Falklands; it's written from the POV of the dying soldier who is realizing he's not going to make it home. The final line is a warning, more broadly, about making war against our fellow man. It would really be worth your time to check out a live performance of this song (Dire Straits is always better live and Mark's extended, emotional and soaring solos are astonishing): There are two to choose from, the performance from "On the Night" live, or the performance at Nelson Mandela's birthday party at Wembley. If you want a breathtaking example of the kind of epic musical masterpiece this band could collectively produce, treat yourself and watch "Telegraph Road" from the Alchemy Live concert. Another very different but spectacular example of Mark's talent is also on display in "Once Upon a Time in the West, also from 'Alchemy Live'.
You might want to watch the live version of this tune
Many people say Mark Knopfler "sings" with his guitar...something I agree with, having listened to almost all of his music since 1979. Keep that in mind as you enjoy his music.
Brilliant reaction, Aaliyah. I really think you made smart and heartfelt observations and comments about this beautiful song. Thank you very much.
Thank you so much!!
As both a trained Infantry soldier and self-taught guitarist I can relate to this song in a deeper level than most folks.
Mark is a brilliant musician, so much of his work can be considered classics. The soulful beauty of this track captures the sadness of war, not forgetting the thought attributed to that famous philosopher A nonymous:
'War does not determine who is right, only who is left'
(often falsely attributed to Bertrand Russell), and Russell's quote:
“Either Man will abolish war, or war will abolish Man.”.
Beautiful Song - beautiful reaction - thank you
There is no light, only darkness and sadness with this song.
No. His mates never failed him, and while he died, he understood even his killer is his brother. So even if the song describes a dark world it also hints it doesn't have to be.
-We can see a classic scene with this song, on the TV show "Miami Vice" in the 1980's, (in last scene of the episode: 'Out Where the Buses Don't Run')
Kamusta na, dear Aaliyah. It's always a joy to see your reactions, especially to songs I grew up with.
I had the great fortune to see Dire Straits a few times, the last one when they were touring for this album. After a short intermission, Mark Knopfler opened the second half of the show by sitting alone on the front edge of the stage playing this song with only his 12 string acoustic guitar to accompany him. It was both beautiful and haunting.
Dire Straits is a band well worth delving into, with so many fantastic tracks to explore.
Another song I highly recommend is Alvin Lee's Bluest Blues. The vocals and guitar work are gorgeous!
Ingat ka, kaibigan!
Oh, and my granddaughter in Cavite, Alliyah, is now 6 months old ♥
Mark Knopfler has a very unique way of singing and playing the guitar. A very personal distinct and unmistakable sound.
Great reaction. So many good and interesting comments.
Best of Britain
The first time I heard this was in the Miami Vice episode "Out Where the Buses Don't Run" and it was electrifying. The aching melancholy of the song in the stunning scene it played in is one of the high points of cinema.
Thanks for sharing💕
This song makes me cry every time I hear it. It’s like his guitar is pleading with him not to go, and to come home. In the end,… he doesn’t, and the guitar just wails through the end of the song.
Thanks so much for sharing💕
The fact that you dive deep with context, connecting the actual music with the video, and of course the lyrics, makes it real and adds clarity to the entire song. Thank you for that!
It's not the vocals or instrumentals that make this song a true classic - it's the meaning of the song.
Thanks for sharing
If you take everything into account, Mark is the GOAT.
🥰🥰🥰
Ooh, an oldie!
I was lucky enough to see them live, unforgettable.
We are always learning. Mark really makes his guitar sing.
Armed conflict, the camaraderie created by urgent need.
"We're fools to make war on our brothers in arms".
I've watched a military veteran reacting to this song, it nearly broke him.
Thank you.
This is a masterpiece (like all songs from the Dire Straits), a musical and emotional journey, and the most moving song ever. Having survived a war as a child, this song speaks volumes to my soul…Mark’s astonishing storytelling (from the perspective of a dying soldier in the Falkland Islands War, adding some anti-war morals in the last verses) and musical genius send shivers to my whole being. The heyday of this song is Mark’s guitar mourning and weeping. Listening to this song (and the original video clip) should be mandatory to those who stand for wars or segregation. Thank you for reacting to the best band ever, with top musicians, and to one of their best songs. These guys are Gods of music! Also check their performance Live Mandela Tribute 1988 at Wembley
Thanks for sharing the info and all of these, much appreciated💕
Grandísima canción, un clásico, leí que estaba inspirada en alguien cercano a Mark, en la guerra de las Malvinas o Falklands ,y fue herido, que bueno que hayas escuchado este" Temazo" genuina reacción, saludos 🙏💪, amo tu sonrisa
welcome to Mark Knopfler - and thankyou
I was about your age when this was released
well spotted about the the duet - voice & guitar
Oh thanks for sharing
One of the best bands of the late 70s and 80s. This has always been my favourite song of theirs. I would also recommend you check out "Romeo and Juliet" , "Sultans of Swing" and "Tunnel of Love".
a brillant song! i used to go out and get the newspapers to read about it and was so happy it did not last long!!!!!!!!!!!
Mark tells the story, the guitar the emotions...
Another masterpiece
I really appreciated your reaction
Right after this song came out it was used in the final scene of an episode of the hit TV show "Miami Vice", the music accompanied the somberness of the scene so well and made it the most powerful scene in the series IMO.
Thanks for sharing💕
@@AaliyahCapili You're welcome! And thank you for the video. I love this song and loved your reaction. ❤ I would add one point, people rightfully focus on Mark Knopfler's incredible vocals and guitar, but the keyboards create such atmosphere and add so much depth. They really help create that slow build-up to the powerful end of the song. Just such an amazing song.
Love seeing the progressions you're making through your videos as you mature! Mark Knopfler is one of the best guitarist to have ever lived. This song may not be his most well known worldwide but it is well known amongst the Veteran community and still my favorite. Keep em' coming :-)
This live version is even more moving than the studio version:
ua-cam.com/video/Z3_HTGdLXL4/v-deo.html ( Mark Knopfler - Brothers In Arms (A Night In London | Official Live Video) )
Great reaction Aaliyah. Subscribed.
Touching reaction for a touching song. It’s just a shame that the MV was tailored for the singles market, cutting the closing solo just as it begins to bite.
Perhaps they ran out of animation budget :P
Thanks for sharing!
Thanks for watching too♥️
Amo questo video, sei meravigliosa Aaliyah!!!❤️
Very nice analysis. Thank you. You have a great voice!
This song is about the UK Falklands War back in 1982 and about how the soilders were brothers in arms
Thanks for sharing
Great reaction our singing goddess ❤
Great reaction, young lady.
When an atmospheric song is playing too many pauses.😊
Great reaction, Aaliyah, as always! For an awesome full live guitar solo, check out Dire Straits Brothers in Arms, Mandela - Live in South Africa 1988
Mark doesn't just do the vocals and guitar: he writes the poetic lyrics and composes the music, all parts.
*A good band of their time*
Check out their sultans of swing alchemy live video... It will blow your mind.
Thank you. I could listen to that guitar all day
He wrote it at the time of the Falkland' war. from a phrase from his father said.
Thanks for sharing
Another great artist with similar guitar sound + singing is Chris Rea - "The Road to Hell , Part 1 + 2 ".. This song + "Brothers in Arms" are 2 songs that will live on forever.. :)
Just putting a plug in to one day listen to Eva Cassidy. Not a well known artist because she sadly died way too young from cancer. But I think an impeccable voice and she had something in common with Mark Knopfler - the duet between her voice and her guitar. Listen to her singing Over The Rainbow - Live at Blues Alley. I don't think you will ever forget this performance
Back in the 80s when this song came out it was used in an episode of a show called Miami Vice.
The episode was called "Out where the busses dont run. It was like a music video od its own.
Thanks for sharing💕
If you love mark’s playing I would recommend you listen to his rendition of the tune, ‘Going home’ from the sound track of the film ‘Local Hero ’. It is magnificent.
Thanks for sharing🌺
The guitar is the vocalist, he is the narrator
Thanks for sharing
Hey Aaliyah, sung from the perspective of a dying soldier on a battle field, reflecting back on life, leaving you with the perspective of the futility of war.
This song tells the story of a soldier coming back from the Australian - Emu war. Such a tragic loss of so many young lives… 💙
Thanks for sharing💕
I’m here for it!!!
Emma Kok Dancing on the Stars
great !!!!!m Liked your reaction to that fantastic song !!!! "We have just one world .... but we live in different once .... ;) ... best song-line ever written in my opinion !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Love your singing too!
Have a look at Tunnel of Love, live from Wembley 1985- some truly haunting guitar work from Mark and the band!
an excellent combination between a song and a clip. and in 100 years I will move people!
To appreciate MK range of musicianship and songwriting listen to his album Privateering.
Thanks for the recommendation
This entire song was written over the Falkland War.
In an interview with Bill Flanagan, Knopfler spoke about the need to get inside the character as a songwriter to do the story justice. “’Brothers in Arms’ is sung by a soldier who is dying on the battlefield,” he said. “You can’t just write off the top of your head; you have to dig deep to get those things. You have to experience, if a thing is really going to be realistic, if you’re gonna try and get whatever you feel across. So, in a sense you’re an outsider, but you’re also digging inside to do it properly. I don’t think you can get away scot-free with these things; otherwise, it’s just not going to work. If you stay outside of these experiences, they’re just not going to translate to people.”
Mark explained it like this:
“These mist-covered mountain, are a home now for me. But my home is the lowlands, and always will be”
The lyric begins, contrasting that with the lowlands where he grew up and where he is, the mist covered mountains where he is laying terminally wounded on a battlefield.
“Some day you'll return to your valleys and your farms. And you'll no longer burn to be brothers in arms”
He foresees his death and a time when the war will be over and when those who survive the combat will leave the battlefield and return to their valleys and their farms, a fate he won’t enjoy. He also admires and cherishes his fellow soldiers’ bravery amidst the war’s chaos and tumult. Yet knowing there will come a time when the bond they have will fade and they will live their separate lives.
“Through these fields of destruction, Baptisms of fire, I've witnessed your suffering. As the battle raged higher and though they did hurt me so bad. In the fear and alarm, you did not desert me, my brothers in arms”
This is how he described the bonding of soldiers who were fighting next to each other, seeing their friends being injured and killed.
The lyrics switch to the individual soldier once again. As he realized he has been seriously wounded and his buddies came to his aid and did not just leave him to die alone on the battlefield.
“There's so many different worlds, So many different suns. And we have just one world, But we live in different ones.”
Mark said, "that we can be neighbors and yet never share anything in common." He went on to say that most humans want the same things in life even though we all live in different places on the earth.
“Now the sun's gone to hell, And the moon's riding high. Let me bid you farewell, every man has to die.”
The sun has set and the moon is up, as the soldier knows he is about to pass. But he wants to convey to his buddies, that they shouldn't feel bad because of his death.
“But it's written in the starlight, and every line in your palm. We're fools to make war, on our brothers in arms”.
He described how destiny has been written, using the stars and the individual as examples. He went further to say: that in fact, we all have a destiny, yet we never take the time to yield to our fragility and how short our lives are. That most people take life for granted and fail to cherish everything that they are blessed with.
This final lyric was a direct statement sent to soldiers. Saying that when politicians decide to go to war, that politicians should be the ones who are forced to fight the battles and soldiers are foolish to fight other soldiers for political gains.
All the while, Knopfler’s allows his emotional and lyrical guitar to release the emotion pent up by the moody musical atmosphere and his controlled.
Live version is awesome.
His guitar is sobbing.
I just love seeing young people enjoying the great music I've enjoyed for decades , the very best of luck with your career❤ Pink Floyd Led Zeppelin Van Morrison and Leonard Cohen would be a few bands - Artists would encourage you to explore, might help lyrically ❤❤❤
Thank you so much!!
To be quiet honest, while I really like the original recording, I have really come to appreciate the 1997 Music for Montserrat live recording of this song
in the Royal Albert Hall, Orchestra included. In my opinion surely one of his best concerts ever, where you can really appreciate his growth as a musician.
On top he actually plays his 1958 Les Paul, which is really an outstandingly impressive musical instrument.
Watch the live version of Sultans of Swing from the Alchemy tour!!
I don't think anyone's reacted to that one yet! 🙄 How about the Basel '92 or Wembley '85 version?
@@DavidG-u2k You could also say about this video "I don't think anyone's reacted to that one yet!" I suspect that the Young Opers Singer won't have seen any of them, but the Alchemy one is a good starting point.....