Mark Knopfler
has contributed to liner notes in CD booklets from various artists. Apart from these liner notes, Mark has also written forewords for a couple of books. I
decicated this section to all these personal words from Mark.
Since the section with the forewords covers just a few books, I also added various
other books I have about Dire Straits and Mark Knopfler. Most of them are
unauthorized but still interesting to have as some contain great photos. I just have a modest selection of what's available.
Click on the title of a CD or book to
get more details.
Liner notes by Mark Knopfler - Music
Artist | Album | Format | Year of release |
► Various artists | The Secret Policeman's Third Ball | 1CD | 1987 |
► Brendan Croker | The Kershaw Sessions | 1CD | 1994 |
► Mike Henderson & The Bluebloods | First blood | 1CD | 1996 |
► Elvis Presley | Artist of the century | 3CD | 1999 |
► Richard Bennett | Themes from a rainy decade | 1CD | 2004 |
► Blue Highway | Marbletown | 1CD | 2005 |
► Pieta Brown | Mercury | 1CD | 2011 |
► J.J. Cale | Tulsa Sound | 9LP Box | 2023 |
Forewords by Mark Knopfler - books
Author | Title | Format | Year of release |
► Hank Marvin | Hank Marvin's guitar tutor | Paperback | 1991 |
► Chas McDevitt | Skiffle: The definitive Inside story | Hardcover | 1997 |
► Frank Allen | Travelling man: On the road with The Searchers | Hardcover | 1999 |
► Rudy Pensa | Archtop Guitars: The journey from Cremona to New York | Hardcover & clam shell | 2011 |
► John Illsley | My life in Dire Straits | Hardcover | 2021 |
Messages from Mark Knopfler
Author | Subject | Format | Year of release |
► Mark Knopfler | Unite for Syria | Internet | 2012 |
► Mark Knopfler | Rhino message | Internet | 2013 |
► Mark Knopfler | Pussy Riot message | Internet | 2013 |
► Mark Knopfler | Phil Everly | Internet | 2014 |
► Mark Knopfler | BB King | Internet | 2015 |
► Mark Knopfler | David Bowie | Internet | 2016 |
► Mark Knopfler | Save Wilderness Discovery | Internet | 2016 |
► Mark Knopfler | Sir George Martin | Internet | 2016 |
► Mark Knopfler | Merle Haggard | Internet | 2016 |
► Mark Knopfler | Prince | Internet | 2016 |
► Mark Knopfler | Scotty Moore | Internet | 2016 |
► Mark Knopfler | Bob Dylan | Internet | 2016 |
► Mark Knopfler | Bab Kennedy | Internet | 2016 |
► Mark Knopfler | Leonard Cohen | Internet | 2016 |
► Mark Knopfler | Chuck Berry | Internet | 2017 |
► Mark Knopfler | Tom Petty | Internet | 2017 |
► Mark Knopfler | Fats Domino | Internet | 2017 |
► Mark Knopfler | Aretha Franklin | Internet | 2018 |
► Mark Knopfler | Corona virus | Internet | 2020 |
► Mark Knopfler | John Prine | Internet | 2020 |
► Mark Knopfler | Sir Stirling Moss | Internet | 2020 |
► Mark Knopfler | David Stewart | Internet | 2020 |
► Mark Knopfler | Peter Green | Internet | 2020 |
► Mark Knopfler | Kerry Lewis | Internet | 2021 |
► Mark Knopfler | Sir Tom Moore | Internet | 2021 |
► Mark Knopfler | Chris Barber | Internet | 2021 |
► Mark Knopfler | Don Everly | Internet | 2021 |
► Mark Knopfler | Charlie Watts | Internet | 2021 |
► Mark Knopfler | Paddy Moloney | Internet | 2021 |
► Mark Knopfler | Alain de Cadenet | Internet | 2022 |
► Mark Knopfler | Queen Elizabeth II | Internet | 2022 |
► Mark Knopfler | Jeff Beck | Internet | 2023 |
► Mark Knopfler | Michael Rhodes | Internet | 2023 |
► Mark Knopfler | Séan Keane | Internet | 2023 |
► Mark Knopfler | Tina Turner | Internet | 2023 |
► Mark Knopfler | Robbie Robertson | Internet | 2023 |
► Mark Knopfler | Jack Sonni | Internet | 2023 |
► Mark Knopfler | Jimmy Buffett | Internet | 2023 |
► Mark Knopfler | Brendan Croker | Internet | 2023 |
► Mark Knopfler | Mike Henderson | Internet | 2023 |
Various books about or featuring Dire Straits / Mark Knopfler
Author | Title | Format | Year of release |
► Michael Oldfield | Dire Straits | Hardcover | 1984 |
► Michael Oldfield | Dire Straits | Paperback | 1984 |
► Philip Kamin | Dire Straits | Paperback | 1985 |
► Álvaro Feito | Dire Straits | Paperback | 1986 |
► Betty Shapiro | Dire Straits - Studio su testi e musiche | Paperback | 1989 |
► Various authors | Dire Straits | Paperback | 1991 |
► Petra Zeitz | Dire Straits | Paperback | 1991 |
► Myles Palmer | Mark Knopfler | Paperback | 1991 |
► Myles Palmer | Mark Knopfler | Hardcover | 1991 |
► Betty Shapiro | Dire Straits - Il pop-rock di Mark Knopfler & Co | Paperback | 1993 |
► Giancarlo Passarella | Solid Rock | Paperback | 1993 |
► Peter Evans | Mark Knopfler Guitar Styles - Volume I | Paperback | 1993 |
► Peter Evans | Mark Knopfler Guitar Styles - Volume II | Paperback | 1993 |
► Giancarlo Passarella | Dire Straits - Manuali Rock 22 | Paperback | 1994 |
► Colin Irwin | Dire Straits | Paperback | 1994 |
► Colin Irwin | Dire Straits | Paperback | 1995 |
► Silvia Grijalba | Dire Straits | Paperback | 1995 |
► Gunther Matejka | Musiker - Selbstportraits | Hardcover | 2002 |
► Andrew Zuckerman | Music | Hardcover | 2010 |
► Mark Makin | Palm trees, senoritas... and rocket ships | Hardcover | 2013 |
► Anne Graham, Michael Hamilton | My North East: by its famous sons & daughters | Hardcover | 2013 |
Various artists - The Secret Policeman's Third Ball
The Secret Policeman's Balls is the collective name informally used to describe the long-running series of benefit shows staged in England to raise funds for the human rights organisation Amnesty International. The shows started out in the mid-1970s primarily as comedy galas featuring popular British comedic performers and later expanded to include leading musical performers. Mark Knopfler appeared in this 1987 edition playing two songs with Chet Atkins: I'll see you in my dreams and Imagine. Mark wrote the liner notes for the CD release.
Front and back cover:
Mark's liner notes:
Artist | Various artists |
Album | The Secret Policeman's Third Ball |
Format | 1CD |
Release | 1987 |
Label | Virgin Records |
Cat.nr. | CDV2458 |
Brendan Croker - The Kershaw Sessions
In December 1995, Brendan Croker released his album The Kershaw Sessions. Mark Knopfler plays on four tracks: Please baby, Blues stay away from me, Weapon of prayer, That's where I belong. And Mark also wrote the liner notes for the CD booklet.
Front and back cover:
Funny to see that the date of Mark's liner notes is from August 1st 1995
while the CD booklet says the album is from 1994 (which actually should be 1995):
Artist | Brendan Croker |
Album | The Kershaw Sessions |
Format | 1CD |
Release | 1995 |
Label | Strange Roots |
Cat.nr. | ROOTCD007 |
Mike Henderson & The Bluebloods - First blood
In 1996, Mike Henderson released an album called First blood. He asked Mark Knopfler to write the liner notes for the booklet, which Mark did. Years later, Mark invited Mike as being part of the tour band for Mark's second solo tour (Sailing to Philadelphia - 2001). What a great addition that was; slide guitar, harmonica, violin; a perfect addition to the band. Great musician!
Front and back cover:
As you can see, the back cover
also features one line from Mark's complete liner notes which are pictured
below:
Artist | Mike Henderson & The Bluebloods |
Album | First blood |
Format | 1CD |
Release | 1996 |
Label | Dead Reckoning |
Cat.nr. | DEAR 0006 |
Elvis Presley - Artist of the century
In various interviews, Mark Knopfler said that he was a fan of Elvis Presley, trying to imitate him when he was young. He also wrote a song about Elvis called Back to Tupelo which can be found on Mark's album Shangri-La from 2004. In 1999, a 3CD set in long box format was released with the greatest hits of Elvis. Many other artists wrote a few words for this occasion which were printed in the first few pages of each of the three booklets.
Front and back cover:
Mark's short liner notes can be found on page 5 of the third booklet:ark
Artist | Elvis Presley |
Album | Artist of the century |
Format | 1CD |
Release | 1999 |
Label | RCA |
Cat.nr. | 07863 67732 2 |
Richard Bennett - Themes
from a rainly decade
Richard Bennett is one of the 96ers, like Mark Knopfler likes to call his band members from 1996 when he started with his first solo tour. Richard has been on tour with Mark ever since and is a great guitar player which he also shows on this album.
Front and back cover:
Mark's liner notes:
Artist | Richard Bennett |
Album | Themes from a rainy decade |
Format | 1CD |
Release | 2004 |
Label | Moderne Shellac |
Cat.nr. | 6 1689258182 6 |
It's quite remarkable to see an album by a band who not only covers one of Mark Knopfler's songs, but also gives the album the name of that covered song. Mark Knopfler likes this cover as can be read in his liner notes.
Front and back cover:
As you can see, the back cover also features one line from Mark's liner notes which are pictured below:
Artist | Blue Highway |
Album | Marbletown |
Format | 1CD |
Release | 2005 |
Label | Rounder |
Cat.nr. | 11661-0558-2 |
Pieta Brown (together with Bo Ramsey) was the opening act on Mark Knopfler's Get Lucky world tour 2010. See also a nice shot of the complete MK band together with Pieta and Bo, taken on 31st July 2010 in Spain:
In 2011, Pieta released her album
Mercury which features Mark Knopfler on the track So many miles.
Mark's liner notes can be found on the sticker.
Front and back cover:
Mark's liner notes:
Artist | Pieta Brown |
Album | Mercury |
Format | 1CD |
Release | 2011 |
Label | Red House Records |
Cat.nr. | RHR CD 242 |
In October 2023, a 9LP box set
was released with music of J.J. Cale, a musician who influenced Mark Knopfler.
The box set features a 40 page booklet with unpublished photos, essays,
memorabilia and a foreword by Mark Knopfler.
Front cover and sticker:
Mark's foreword:
Artist | J.J. Cale |
Album | Tulsa Sound |
Format | 9LP Box set |
Release | 2023 |
Label | Universal |
Cat.nr. | 0600753977033 |
Hank Marvin's guitar tutor
A nice book from Hank Marvin in which
he learns you to start playing guitar. Allthough the first release of the book
was in 1991, it includes two matching cassettes (!) of tuition from the man
himself. The book and the two cassettes are housed in an outer carton sleeve. Hank Marvin asked Mark to write the introduction for this book which
sure must have been a true pleasure for Mark as Hank and his red Fender Stratocaster has
always been a hero to Mark from a young age. Like Mark says in his foreword of
"Skiffle: The definitive Inside story" talking about the foreword for this book
: "It completes a circuit with the past".
The following is taken from an interview
from Vintage Guitar Magazine, May 2001:
Vintage Guitar Magazine: "Did Hank Marvin make you want to play electric
guitar?"
Mark Knopfler: "Yeah. I was eight or nine when I got my first Shadows EP,
and that’s why my first electric guitar had to be red! I desperately wanted a
Fender, but my dad couldn’t afford one, so I ended up getting a Höfner with a
couple of pickups – at least it had a basic Strat shape. And I was in love with
that guitar."
Front and back cover:
Detail front cover:
Mark Knopfler's foreword:
Author | Hank Marvin |
Publisher | International Music Publications |
Format | Paperback |
First release | 1991 |
ISBN | 0-86359-749-1 |
Number of pages | 83 |
Language | English |
Chas McDevitt - Skiffle: the
definitive
inside story
The Skiffle craze captured the imagination of Britains youth in the mid 1950s. It was a re-invention, in strictly British terms, of the American jug and spasm band music played at rent parties and get-togethers in the 20s and 30s. A hybrid music, it mixed the elements of folk, country, jazz and pop in a simple yet rhythmic style. It flourished in coffee bars, jazz clubs and even concert hall; and although eventually overtaken in popularity by Rock n Roll it still has its ardent devotees. Thousands of kids had taken up the washboard, guitar and tea-chest bass and formed these Skiffle groups which became the spawning grounds for future rock legends; the Quarrymen became The Beatles, The Railroaders became The Shadows. Van Morrison, Mark Knopfler, Albert Lee, Chris Farlowe, Roger Glover, Ralph McTell and Martin Carthy are just a few who acknowledge the influence that Skiffle had on their careers. This book documents the Skiffle craze in the UK, inlcuding 121 photos & illustrations.
Front and back cover:
Mark Knopfler's foreword:
Author | Chass McDevitt |
Publisher | Robson Books |
Format | Hardcover |
First release | 1997 |
ISBN | 1-86105-140-9 |
Number of pages | 294 |
Language | English |
Rudy Pensa - Archtop Guitars: The journey from Cremona to New York
This book celebrates the works of famed
New Yorks archtop guitar builders John D'Angelico, James D'Aquisto and John
Monteleone. The book features wonderful pictures of various violins and guitars,
including some great pictures of Mark Knopfler's Monteleone Isabella and
Monteleone Autumn. It's a very large and heavy high quality book. In July 2011,
I received my limited edition which comes with a clam shell and gold leafing on
the edges of the book. The book and clam shell combined are over 5kg in weight!
Rudy Pensa personally signed it for me. If you are interested in the book,
contact Rudy's Music in New York:
http://www.rudysmusic.com
Front and back cover:
Mark Knopfler's foreword:
Personally signed by Rudy Pensa:
Detail back cover:
Details inside:
Author | Rudy Pensa |
Publisher | Graphis |
Format | Hardcover with clam shell |
First release | 2011 |
ISBN | 1-932026-75-4 |
Number of pages | 433 |
Language | English |
John Illsley - My life in Dire Straits
The first, and only, inside story
of one of the greatest bands in rock history Dire Straits as told by founding
member and bassist John Illsley.
One of the most successful music acts of all time, Dire Straits filled stadiums
around the world. Their albums sold hundreds of millions of copies and their
musicclassics like Sultans of swing, Romeo and Juliet, Money
for nothing, and Brothers in arms is still played on every continent
today. There was, quite simply, no bigger band on the planet throughout the
eighties. In this powerful and entertaining memoir, founding member John Illsley
gives the inside track on the most successful rock band of their time. From
playing gigs in the spit-and-sawdust pubs of south London, to hanging out with
Bob Dylan in LA, Illsley tells the story of the band with searching honesty,
soulful reflection, and wry humor. Starting with his own unlikely beginnings in
Middle England, he recounts the bands rise from humble origins to the best-known
venues in the world, the working mans clubs to Madison Square Garden, sharing
gigs with wild punk bands to rocking the Live Aid stage at Wembley. And woven
throughout is an intimate portrait and tribute to his great friend Mark
Knopfler, the band's lead singer, songwriter, and remarkable guitarist. Tracing
an idea that created a phenomenal musical legacy, an extraordinary journey of
joy and pain, companionship and surprises, this is John Illsleys life in Dire
Straits.
Front and back cover:
Mark Knopfler's foreword:
Author | John Illsley |
Publisher | Bantam Press |
Format | Hardcover |
First release | November 2021 |
ISBN | 978-1-7876-3435-0 |
Number of pages | 326 |
Language | English |
Frank
Allen -
Travelling man: On the road
with The Searchers
In 1999 Frank Allen, bass player and front
man with The Searchers since 1964, wrote a book on his lifetime of travel. It is
not an autobiography as such, but more an amusing and sometimes irreverent look
at a lifetime of travel from one of the most popular performers still on the
60's music scene. A must for every Searchers fan, and indeed for anyone who
appreciates 60's music, interesting travel tales and a humorous look at a
lifetime of bringing enjoyment and entertainment to others. The book is
published in hardback form, and contains about 100 photographs. Mark Knopfler is
mentioned too in the book and also can be seen on one of the photographs in the
book.
Front and back cover:
Mark Knopfler's foreword:
The photo including Mark Knopfler, unknown when it was taken:
Author | Frank Allen |
Publisher | Aureus |
Format | Hardcover |
First release | 1999 |
ISBN | 1-899750-29-0 |
Number of pages | 199 |
Language | English |
Michael Oldfield - Dire Straits
This book is written in co-operation with Dire Straits. Michael Oldfield first met Mark Knopfler at college in the late sixties when they were both training to be journalists. Oldfield has since worked on local and national newspapers, but has spent most of his career on Melody Maker, becoming editor in 1980. He saw Dire Straits in their earliest days and has covered the band in Britain and abroad throughout their career. Very ncie book with lots of black and white photos. It covers the Dire Straits story until their Love over Gold world tour 1982-1983.
Front and back cover:
The hardcover edition features a nice color version of Oldfield's Access All Areas pass from the Love over Gold world tour 1982-1983:
Author | Michael Oldfield |
Publisher | Sidgwick & Jackson |
Format | Hardcover |
First release | 1984 |
ISBN | 0-283-98990-4 |
Number of pages | 152 |
Language | English |
Michael Oldfield - Dire Straits paperback
This book is written in co-operation with Dire Straits. Michael Oldfield first met Mark Knopfler at college in the late sixties when they were both training to be journalists. Oldfield has since worked on local and national newspapers, but has spent most of his career on Melody Maker, becoming editor in 1980. He saw Dire Straits in their earliest days and has covered the band in Britain and abroad throughout their career. Very ncie book with lots of black and white photos. It covers the Dire Straits story until their Love over Gold world tour 1982-1983.
Front and back cover:
Author | Michael Oldfield |
Publisher | Sidgwick & Jackson |
Format | Paperback |
First release | 1984 |
ISBN | 0-283-98995-5 |
Number of pages | 152 |
Language | English |
Nice book with a lot of pictures, both color and black & white. Comes with a seperate 17" x 22" full-color photo.
Front and back cover:
Author | Philip Kamin |
Publisher | Robus Books |
Format | Paperback |
First release | 1985 |
ISBN | 0-88188-453-7 |
Number of pages | 32 |
Language | English |
This book features the story of Dire Straits, lyrics, discography and a few black & white photos.
Front and back cover:
Author | Alvaro Feito |
Publisher | Ediciones Júcar |
Format | Paperback |
First release | 1986 |
ISBN | 84-334-2065-8 |
Number of pages | 220 |
Language | Spanish |
Betty Shapiro
- Dire Straits - Studio su testi e musiche
A book with a study
of texts and music of various Dire Straits songs. The book also features a
couple black & white photos.
Front and back cover:
Author | Betty Shapiro |
Publisher | Kaos Edizioni |
Format | Paperback |
First release | 1989 |
ISBN | Not available |
Number of pages | 142 |
Language | Italian |
Various authors - Dire Straits
Small book with translations of Dire Straits lyrics. The book also features a couple black & white photos.
Front and back cover:
Author | Various authors |
Publisher | Blues Brothers |
Format | Paperback |
First release | 1991 |
ISBN | Not available |
Number of pages | 128 |
Language | Italian |
Very nice book with a lot of pictures, both color and black & white and the story of Dire Straits until just before the release of On every street.
Front and back cover:
Author | Petra Zeitz |
Publisher | Moewig |
Format | Paperback |
First release | 1991 |
ISBN | 3-8118-3082-1 |
Number of pages | 80 |
Language | German |
Giancarlo Passarella - Solid Rock
This Italian fan released a book with the story of Dire Straits, discography, bootleg dicography and concert dates until the final Dire Straits concert in history; 9th October 1992, Zaragoza, Spain.
Front and back cover:
Author | Giancarlo Passarella |
Publisher | M.M. Edizioni |
Format | Paperback |
First release | 1993 |
ISBN | 88-86129-02-5 |
Number of pages | 126 |
Language | Italian |
Peter Evans - Mark Knopfler Guitar Styles - Volume I
Part I of the two official guitar styles books. With great insight in various guitars of Mark Knopfler with comments from Mark himself as well as from Ron Eve, who has been Mark's guitar technician for a long time. The biggest part of the book consists of guitar transcriptions / tablature of various songs by Dire Straits.
Front and back cover:
Author | Peter Evans |
Publisher | Wise Publications |
Format | Paperback |
First release | 1993 |
ISBN | 0-7119-3450-9 |
Number of pages | 152 |
Language | English |
Peter Evans - Mark Knopfler Guitar Styles - Volume II
Part II of the two official guitar styles books. With great insight in various guitars of Mark Knopfler with comments from Mark himself as well as from Ron Eve, who has been Mark's guitar technician for a long time. The biggest part of the book consists of guitar transcriptions / tablature of various songs by Dire Straits.
Front and back cover:
Author | Peter Evans |
Publisher | Wise Publications |
Format | Paperback |
First release | 1993 |
ISBN | 0-7119-3499-1 |
Number of pages | 104 |
Language | English |
Giancarlo Passarella - Dire Straits Manuali Rock 22
This book features the story of Dire Straits, interviews and the worldwide discography.
Front and back cover:
Author | Giancarlo Passarella |
Publisher | Arcana Editrice |
Format | Paperback |
First release | 1994 |
ISBN | 88-7966-042-X |
Number of pages | 243 |
Language | Italian |
Myles Palmer - Mark Knopfler - An unauthorized biography.
A very nice book about Mark Knopfler, packed with revealing and amusing anecdotes from Mark's schoolfriends, girlfriends, teachers, journalist colleagues and fellow lecturers, and many informed insiders's insights from musicians who played with him, and who toured supporting Dire Straits. The book also features some nice black & white photos, including a couple of young Mark when he was still at school.
Front and back cover:
Author | Myles Palmer |
Publisher | Sidgwick & Jackson |
Format | Paperback |
First release | 1991 |
ISBN | 0-283-06143-X |
Number of pages | 288 |
Language | English |
Myles Palmer - Mark Knopfler - An unauthorized biography
A very nice book about Mark Knopfler, packed with revealing and amusing anecdotes from Mark's schoolfriends, girlfriends, teachers, journalist colleagues and fellow lecturers, and many informed insiders's insights from musicians who played with him, and who toured supporting Dire Straits. The book also features some nice black & white photos, including a couple of young Mark when he was still at school.
Front and back cover:
Author | Myles Palmer |
Publisher | Sidgwick & Jackson |
Format | Hardcover |
First release | 1991 |
ISBN | 0-283-99937-3 |
Number of pages | 280 |
Language | English |
Betty Shapiro - Dire Straits - Il pop-rock di Mark Knopfler & Co
A book with a study of texts and music of various Dire Straits songs. The book also features a couple black & white photos.
Front and back cover:
Author | Betty Shapiro |
Publisher | Kaos Edizioni |
Format | Paperback |
First release | 1993 |
ISBN | 88-7953-012-7 |
Number of pages | 160 |
Language | Italian |
Small format book with the history of Dire Straits combined with lots of great photo's.
Front and back cover:
Author | Colin Irwin |
Publisher | Orion |
Format | Paperback |
First release | 1994 |
ISBN | 1-85797-584-7 |
Number of pages | 120 |
Language | English |
Small format book with the history of Dire Straits combined with lots of great photo's.
Front and back cover:
Author | Colin Irwin |
Publisher | Star Book |
Format | Paperback |
First release | 1995 |
ISBN | 90-5631-011-9 |
Number of pages | 120 |
Language | Dutch |
Silvia Grijalba - Dire Straits
This book features the story of Dire Straits, lyrics, discography and various color and black & white photos. The book comes with a free poster.
Front and back cover:
Author | Silvia Grijalba |
Publisher | Editorial La Mascara |
Format | Paperback |
First release | 1995 |
ISBN | 84-7974-512-6 |
Number of pages | 64 |
Language | Spanish |
Gunther Matejka - Musiker - Selbstportraits
This book is full with self portraits made by various artists. The self portrait of Mark was made in July 2002 when he was being interviewed. I guess it was one of the short interviews he did just before the four charity shows that month. Very nice to see this personal drawing from Mark.
Front and back cover:
Mark Knopfler's self portrait:
Author | Gunther Matejka |
Publisher | Voggenreiter |
Format | Hardcover |
First release | 2002 |
ISBN | 3-8024-0439-4 |
Number of pages | 192 |
Language | German |
Following the highly acclaimed Wisdom,
Andrew Zuckerman now turns his unique photographic perspective to music. This
new book includes fifty eminent musicians-artists, composers, producers, and
performers from rock, rap, dance, soul, R&B, classical, country, reggae, pop,
jazz, world, and more who have made an impact on their genre, contributed to the
larger conversation, and have a unique perspective on life.
Each musician is photographed and interviewed on film about the process of
making music, the power of music, and the experience of writing, producing, and
performing. The group includes emerging artists, as well as legends from a
variety of genres, and together, they create a distinctive understanding of the
universal language of music. Mark Knopfler is also featured on the official
DVD.
Front and back cover:
Mark Knopfler's photo inside the book:
Author | Andrew Zuckerman |
Publisher | Abrams |
Format | Hardcover |
First release | 2010 |
ISBN | 978-0-8109-9652-6 |
Number of pages | 227 |
Language | English |
Mark Makin - Palm trees, senoritas... and rocket ships
In 1993 Bob Brozman published his book, The History and Artistry of National Resonator Instruments. Bob did a great job telling the history of the National company but there was so much more to the story than he actually covered in his book. Now, for the first time, the full story of Nationals, Dobros, Supros, Valco and OMI instruments, has been brought together by renowned expert Mark Makin in his new book Palm Trees, Senoritas .... and Rocket Ships. Six years in the making, the book is packed with illustrations of guitars, lap steels, amps, all drawn by Mark Makin, plus reproductions of catlogues, features on individual players - including Mark Knopfler and Steve Phillips - and a significanltly extended section on serial numbers. This new book is set to become a major reference work and is a must for anyone interested in Nationals, Dobros, etc. Just 2500 copies are made of the book.
Front and back cover:
Author | Mark Makin |
Publisher | MBM Publishing |
Format | Hardcover |
First release | 2013 |
ISBN | 978-0-9574746-0-4 |
Number of pages | 423 |
Language | English |
Anne Graham, Michael Hamilton - My North East: by its famous sons & daughters
All profits from this book will be donated
to the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, the cancer-treatment charity launched in
2008 by the man himself during his fight with the disease. The Foundation has
raised over £5 million so far in October 2013. This beautiful book features
interviews with more than 60 of the best-known people from the North East, from
stars of stage and screen to sporting heroes young and old. With full colour
photographs throughout, each celebrity talks about memories of and connections
to the place they call home, their favourite view in the region, and how both
have shaped their life so far. Contributors include: Peter Beardsley, Tony
Blair, Bobby Charlton, Jack Charlton, George Clarke, Kat Copeland, Simon Donald,
Bryan Ferry, Brendan Foster, Robson Green, Tim Healy, Brian Johnson, Chris
Kamara, Si King, Mark Knopfler, Ian La Frenais, Terry Laybourne, Carol Malia,
Joe McElderry, Gina McKee, Bob Moncur, Jimmy Montgomery, Jimmy Nail, the Duchess
of Northumberland, Chris Ramsey, Vic Reeves, Sir Bobby Robson, Bryan Robson, Pam
Royle, Alan Shearer, Jeff Stelling, Sting, Kathryn Tickell, Rachel & Becky
Unthank, Denise Welch, Kevin Whately, Sid Waddell and more!
“I still fantasise about having a
little cottage up in the Tyne Valley, maybe somewhere up on the tops near
Allendale or Whitfield where the views are out of this world.”
Mark Knopfler
Front cover:
Author | Anne Graham, Michael Hamilton |
Publisher | Kingfisher Reach Communications |
Format | Hardcover |
First release | 2013 |
ISBN | 978-0-957689-70-1 |
Number of pages | 200 |
Language | English |
Mark Knopfler - Unite for Syria
Mark Knopfler is among a long list
of prominent people supporting the Unite for Syria campaign. On 26th March 2012, MK News
posted a link of a YouTube clip "Unite for Syria: Stop one year of bloodshed" in
which Mark also appeared holding a sign with the message "Unite for Syria".
In February 2013, Mark Knopfler had a special message about the rhino which was published on the MK News website:
Mark Knopfler - Pussy Riot message
On 17th August 2012, following the Pussy Riot convictions in Russia Mark Knopfler has issued the following statement.
Whenever a political
regime or religious establishment refuses to tolerate criticism it advertises
itself as repressive, backward and insecure.
This verdict will diminish Russia in the eyes of the world. I condemn the prison
sentences given to these young people and support the right to protest for
everyone. MK
In conjunction with Amnesty International, Mark has issued the following letter on 22nd July 2013:
Dear Masha and Nadia,
As the one-year anniversary of your trial approaches, I’m writing to assure you
that, around the world, people are both still thinking of you and working for
your release.Although you were the most visible of the protesters, we know also
that there were many other young people who have suffered in the protests,about
whom we are also very concerned. But, in many ways, through your imprisonment,
you have come to represent them. Many artists voiced their concern when
these ... charges were first brought against you, we had every hope that the
authorities, in dealing with you ,would show some understanding , a sense of
proportion, even some of the wonderful Russian sense of humour, but none of the
above were forthcoming .
The impact of your shockingly unjust trial and imprisonment has spread far and
wide. Especially among your fellow artists, musicians and citizens around the
world, including the many parents who feel your anguish at being separated from
your children. While understanding the sensitivities of protesting in a place of
worship, we ask that the Russian authorities review these harsh sentences, so
that you may return to your children, your families and your lives.
The right to freedom of expression and dissent is a legitimate one and essential
in any kind of democracy. You have been accused of what could be described as 'a
victimless' crime, but in our opinion, in a just society, there can be no crime
where there is no identifiable 'victim'.
Your strength, bravery and fearlessness are an inspiration to us all.
Yours in solidarity,
Mark Knopfler
On 3rd January 2014, Phil Everly passed away. Mark Knopfler's message was posted on the MK News website.
"I was so sad to hear of the passing of Phil Everly. The Everly Brothers played a huge part in my young life, helped shape my musical upbringing and influenced so many singers and players, bringing joy to millions. I'm proud to have worked with them. At this time my thoughts are with Phil's family and friends."
MK
(06/01/14)
On 14th May 2015, BB King passed away. Mark Knopfler's message was posted on the MK News website.
"BB King was an enormous influence on me and for countless others. I first heard him on the record 'Live At The Regal' at 15, and was struck by the sound and the emotion in his playing and singing and the effect of both on the audience. It was an honour to be a part of ‘BB King and Friends’, his 80th birthday recording of duets. BB will always be in my heart."
MK
(15/05/15)
On 10th January 2016, David Bowie passed away. Mark Knopfler's message was posted on the MK News website.
"What sad news. David Bowie's message was always one of individuality, creativity and freedom of expression and inspired so many."
MK
(11/01/16)
Mark Knopfler - Save Wilderness Discovery
Mark Knopfler is among a list
of prominent people supporting Save Wilderness Discovery. On 13th January 2016, MK News
posted a photo of Mark in his studio holding up the sign for the campain.
"Wheelchairs. NOT millionaires! Tell Ontario's government, DON'T sell public
land out from under our disabled children, veterans, seniors, and their
families. Let them keep a small, fully accessible piece of paradise."
Mark Knopfler - Sir George Martin
Sir George Henry Martin CBE the English record producer, arranger, composer,
conductor, audio engineer and musician passed away aged 90 on the 8th of March
2016.
Mark Knopfler's message was posted on the MK News website.
"It’s going to be hard to imagine a world of music without George in it. He
was a lovely man who gave so much of his talent and of himself. I am proud to
have been his friend and grateful to have so many happy memories of him. My
thoughts are with Lady Judy and Giles at this time."
MK
(09/03/16)
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Merle Ronald Haggard was
an American singer, songwriter, guitarist, and fiddler. Along with Buck Owens,
Haggard and his band the Strangers helped create the Bakersfield sound, which is
characterized by the twang of Fender Telecaster and the unique mix with the
traditional country steel guitar sound, new vocal harmony styles in which the
words are minimal, and a rough edge not heard on the more polished Nashville
sound recordings of the same era. He passed away on 6th April 2016. Mark
Knopfler's message was posted on the MK News website.
"I was very sad to hear that Merle Haggard has passed away. He was one of the
greats. If I had to describe country music to anyone I’d play them a Merle
Haggard record. He will be much missed".
MK
(08/04/16)
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Prince passed away on 21st April 2016. Mark Knopfler's message was posted on the
MK News website.
"I was sad to hear of Prince’s passing. He was a multi-talented writer,
singer, instrumentalist and producer who gave huge pleasure to so many. I’m sure
we all felt there was much more to come."
MK
(22/04/16)
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Scotty Moore passed away on 28th June 2016 at his home outside Nashville. Mark
Knopfler's message was posted on the MK News website.
"Elvis wouldn't have been the same without Scotty Moore, who has passed away at
the age of 84. Scotty's playing on those early songs was the inspiration for
thousands of youngsters to start out on guitar......"
MK
(30/06/16)
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Bob Dylan won the 2016 Nobel Prize for Literature. Mark Knopfler's message was
posted on the MK News website.
"Bob Dylan has been a great songwriter since he was a teenager and nothing
has stopped him in continuing to write and bring his gifts to the world. There
aren’t many honours which Bob hasn’t earned already. I’m delighted for him."
MK
(13/10/16)
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After a brave struggle
with cancer, Bap Kennedy passed away on the 1st of November 2016. Mark
Knopfler's message was posted on the MK News website.
"This is such sad news. Bap was an extremely talented and committed
songwriter who applied himself to his craft at all times. I have nothing but
happy memories of our days and nights in the studio and out on the road."
MK
(07/11/16)
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Leonard Cohen passed away
on 7th November 2016. Mark Knopfler's message was posted on the MK News website.
"So sad to hear of the passing of Leonard Cohen - thank you for so many years
of music and for your enormous contribution to the world of song."
MK
(11/11/16)
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Mark Knopfler - Chuck Berry
Chuck Berry passed away
on 18th March 2017. Mark Knopfler's message was posted on the MK News website.
"'We’ll all remember Chuck Berry as one of the greatest rock 'n roll
performers but he was also the greatest of the rock ’n roll writers. Music
wouldn’t have evolved in the same way without him. Seeing him at Newcastle City
Hall when I was 15 was an unforgettable experience."
MK
(21/03/17)
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Tom Petty passed away
on 2nd October 2017. Mark Knopfler's message was posted on the MK News website.
"I was so sad
to hear the news about Tom Petty. I always loved him, from his first classic
record with the Heartbreakers and on through the years. My
thoughts are with his family and friends at this time."
MK
(06/10/17)
Fats Domino passed away
on 24th October 2017. Mark Knopfler's message was posted on the MK News website.
"Farewell to Fats Domino,
one of the great rock ’n roll pioneers. Fats Domino was playing boogie woogie
piano long before that music was given the ‘rock ’n roll’ name. His songs are
classics which influenced dozens of artists. He will never be forgotten."
MK
(26/10/17)
Mark Knopfler - Aretha Franklin
Aretha Franklin passed away
on 16th August 2018. Mark Knopfler's message was posted on the Mark Knopfler.com website.
"We all mourn the loss of
Aretha Franklin, Queen of Soul. She gave so much to the world. Her music will
remain an inspiration, treasured by millions.
MK
(19/08/18)
This message was posted on Facebook:
(20/03/20)
Mark Knopfler - John Prine
John Prine passed away
on 7th April 2020. Mark Knopfler's message was posted on the Mark Knopfler.com website.
"Today I am so sad to learn of the loss of John Prine. His songs, full of
humour,
honesty and humanity, will endure in our affection always."
MK
(08/04/20)
Mark
Knopfler - Farewell to Sir Stirling
Sir Stirling Moss passed away
on 12th April 2020. Mark Knopfler's message was posted on the Mark Knopfler.com website.
"Farewell to Sir Stirling Moss, a great man and at all times a great
sportsman.
He is an inspiration to the rest of us in these tough times."
MK
(14/04/20)
David Stewart passed away
on 16th April 2020. Mark Knopfler's message was posted on the Mark Knopfler.com website.
"I am very sad to announce the loss of our dear friend David Stewart, our studio
Manager.
David will be sorely missed, not only by everyone at British Grove but also by
everybody who knew him.
Our hearts go out to our beloved Robyn and their two sons Jake and Tommy."
MK
(16/04/20)
(25/07/20)
(28/01/21)
Sir Tom Moore passed
away on 2nd February 2021.
Mark Knopfler's message was posted on the Mark Knopfler.com website.
(03/02/21)
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(19/09/22)
The music world is shocked and saddened by the loss of Jeff Beck. A magnificent guitarist, in a class of his own, who influenced countless players, he will never be replaced.
MK
(13/01/23)
Yesterday we learned of the passing of a friend, the great bass player Michael
Rhodes, on March 4th. I’m proud to have known and recorded with him.
Thinking of you Michael. May you rest in peace – MK
(06/03/23)
A sad farewell to Séan Keane, fiddle player of The Chieftans, who passed away on
May 7th.
Séan
was an extraordinary musician. I treasure the times we played together.
MK
(19/05/23)
The world is saddened to hear of the passing of our beloved Tina Turner. She was
a live force, a human dynamo.
Tina showed no sign of bitterness about a tough childhood, then a violent
marriage and hard times following her divorce from Ike Turner.
Instead she put her superhuman energy into her unique interpretations of songs,
and eventually her records sold by the million.
Meanwhile, a musical about her life plays in theatres everywhere.
She was an inspiration for women of all ages and social classes and was
worshipped by major entertainers such as Beyonce and Rihanna.
Tina said she wanted to be remembered as the Queen of Rock ’n’ Roll, and that is
precisely what she became.
MK
(25/05/23)
Robbie Robertson
passed away on 9th August 2023.
Mark Knopfler's message was posted on the Mark Knopfler.com website.
A sad farewell salute to Robbie Robertson. I loved The Band from their earliest
days.
Robbie’s talents and his love for the music were always in evidence.
MK
Jack Sonni passed away on 30th August 2023.
A sad farewell to our old friend Jack Sonni, whom I met when he was working at
Rudy’s Music Stop on 48th St.
Jack was a genuine guitar enthusiast who loved to play, jam, and talk guitars
and amps all day.
He joined us on tour during the Brothers in Arms era and took to life on the
road with the band like a fish to water.
Jack made friends wherever he went and will be missed by his many pals
worldwide. Our thoughts are with his family at this time.
MK
Jimmy Buffett passed away on 1st September
2023.
Mark Knopfler's message was posted on the Mark Knopfler.com website.
It’s time to bid a sad farewell to our friend Jimmy Buffett who passed away
last week.
Jimmy and his band were a pleasure to be around and I’m sure they’ll have a
mountain of happy memories of their friend and leader.
In the few short years of our friendship I’m proud Jimmy recorded a couple of my
songs and glad that he enjoyed playing ‘Oldest Surfer On the Beach’ on his stage
shows.
Our condolences go out to Jimmy’s family at this time.
MK
Brendan Croker passed away on 10th September
2023.
Mark Knopfler's message was posted on the Mark Knopfler.com website.
It’s a sad farewell to old friend in song Brendan Croker who has succumbed to
leukaemia. You’ll probably read more about Brendan in obituaries soon.
He was a true artist in every way, appeared eccentric to many but was positive,
brave and generous to a fault.
We had many happy years sharing music including touring and singing with our
mutual pal Steve Phillips in The Notting Hillbillies.
The song I can hear Brendan singing now is the one we used to finish our set
with, ‘Feel Like Going Home’.
My thoughts are with Brendan’s partner Ali and their friends everywhere.
MK
Click on this picture to see a nice video of Mark and Brendan, broadcasted on 7th March 1990:
Mike Henderson passed away on 22nd September
2023.
Mark Knopfler's message was posted on the Mark Knopfler.com website.
We’re bidding goodbye to an old friend: Mike Henderson, bluesman
extraordinaire and one of the founding members of bluegrass group The
SteelDrivers.
Mike was an extraordinary talent: as at home with bluegrass and old time fiddle
music as he was with the blues. He was a superb blues harp player too.
I first saw him backing singer/songwriter Kevin Welch at the Bluebird Cafe in
Nashville, and subsequently with blues band the Kingsnakes.
On both those gigs the tall man at his side playing either his old upright
string bass or his Fender Precision, was one Glenn Worf, who would share
the studio and the stage with me from around that time until today. Mike
joined my band for our tour in 2001 and we saw a big chunk of the world
together.
I’m thinking of Mike’s family and friends at this time.
MK
(24/09/23)