About the song
Dire Straits’ “Sultans of Swing” is an iconic rock song that marks the band’s breakthrough and remains a staple in classic rock repertoire. Released in 1978 on their self-titled debut album “Dire Straits,” the song was written by the band’s frontman and lead guitarist, Mark Knopfler.
“Sultans of Swing” showcases Knopfler’s distinctive fingerpicking guitar style and storytelling lyrics, which vividly depict a jazz band playing in a local bar. The song’s narrative captures the essence of musicianship and the passion for music, resonating with audiences for its authenticity and musical craftsmanship.
Upon its release, “Sultans of Swing” received critical acclaim and garnered commercial success, reaching the top 10 in charts across multiple countries, including the United Kingdom and the United States. Its innovative guitar work and Knopfler’s soulful vocals propelled Dire Straits into international recognition, establishing them as pioneers of the new wave of British rock.
The song’s enduring popularity can be attributed to its timeless appeal and the band’s ability to blend rock with elements of jazz and blues, creating a sound that is both nostalgic and fresh. “Sultans of Swing” continues to be celebrated for its memorable guitar riff and Knopfler’s evocative storytelling, making it a favorite among fans of classic rock and guitar enthusiasts alike.
Decades after its initial release, “Sultans of Swing” remains a defining moment in Dire Straits’ career and a cultural touchstone in the history of rock music. Its inclusion in various compilations and continued airplay on rock radio stations underscores its status as a classic that continues to inspire and captivate listeners worldwide.
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Lyrics
You get a shiver in the dark
It’s a raining in the park but meantime-
South of the river you stop and you hold everything
A band is blowing Dixie, double four time
You feel alright when you hear the music ring
Well now you step inside but you don’t see too many faces
Coming in out of the rain they hear the jazz go down
Competition in other places
Uh but the horns they blowin’ that sound
Way on down south
Way on down south
London town
You check out guitar George, he knows-all the chords
Mind, it’s strictly rhythm he doesn’t want to make it cry or sing
They said an old guitar is all, he can afford
When he gets up under the lights to play his thing
And Harry doesn’t mind, if he doesn’t, make the scene
He’s got a daytime job, he’s doing alright
He can play the Honky Tonk like anything
Savin’ it up, for Friday night
With the Sultans
We’re the Sultans of Swing
Then a crowd a young boys they’re a foolin’ around in the corner
Drunk and dressed in their best brown baggies and their platform soles
They don’t give a damn about any trumpet playin’ band
It ain’t what they call Rock and Roll
And the Sultans
Yeah, the Sultans, they play Creole
Creole
And then the man he steps right up to the microphone
And says at last just as the time bell rings
“Goodnight, now it’s time to go home”
Then he makes it fast with one more thing
“We are the Sultans
We are the Sultans of Swing”