Eric Clapton has praised Mark Knopfler as a “totally unique” guitarist. Clapton, known for his wide-ranging guitar work from the hit Layla to the softer Wonderful Tonight, has recognized Knopfler’s exceptional talent and craftsmanship.
Clapton acknowledges the lineage of rock guitarists who have followed in his blues-influenced footsteps, with Mark Knopfler of Dire Straits standing out.
Classics
Knopfler’s work, including classics like Sultans of Swing and Brothers in Arms and the incredibleTelegraph Road has gained Clapton’s admiration for its enduring quality and craftsmanship.
In an interview with Rolling Stone Clapton said of Knopfler: “Well, Mark Knopfler, I think, is totally unique. He’s a great craftsman, which brings it back to that. I mean, with Dire Straits, if you listen to any of their albums the first time, it sort of goes by you a bit. Then gradually it just gets better and better, and it stands the test of time. They’re fantastic craftsmen.”
Money for Nothing
Clapton and Knopfler have shared the stage several times, notably at a Dire Straits performance at Knebworth in 1990, where Clapton joined the band for the performance of Money for Nothing.
