Thursday 25 January 2024.

Wednesday 24 January 2024....5.15pm to 8pm... The MARK KNOPFLER Guitar Collection , Christie's , King Street , St James's , London SW1. Christie’s is honoured to bring to auction guitars from the collection of music legend Mark Knopfler, the celebrated singer-songwriter, guitar hero and frontman of the iconic British rock band, Dire Straits. Comprising more than 120 guitars and amps, the collection spans the 50-year career of one of the world’s most influential musicians and chronicles the diverse array of guitars Knopfler has used to write, record and perform an extensive catalogue of compositions for Dire Straits, as well as numerous successful solo albums and film soundtracks. Renowned for his distinct and virtuoso finger-picking style, Mark chose each instrument for its individual sound and tone, assembling a wide-ranging archive that includes iconic and world-famous names such as Gibson, Fender and Martin alongside custom-built models by Rudy Pensa and John Suhr, and bespoke examples crafted by luthiers from across the globe. Twenty-five percent of the total hammer price will be divided equally and donated to The British Red Cross, Tusk and Brave Hearts of the North East. The live auction will be on the Christie's website 31 Jan at 1pm. There Is a 26 mins video of Mark Knopfler being interviewed about the guitars on YouTube. -------------- A big crowd of over 300 folks here. The stunning range of guitars are hanging on the walls, with several on the main stage. It is a public view guest list , rather than a private view guest list so it is a pay bar , rather than the usual complimentary bar. There are videos of Dire Straits on the big screens, and the sound is perfect as it is via Dolby Atmos. 6pm -Paul Crockford Mark Knopfler' s current manager , gives a talk about the crafting of the Local Heroes Gin , a collaboration with Mark Knopfler....which is on sale at the bar tonight.. 7pm - John Illsley , founding member and bass guitarist of Dire Straits was in conversation with Paul Sexton about the band's rise from London pubs to global stardom. Mark Knopfler has sold sold over 100 million albums with Dire Straits and solo. I have seen Dire Straits 14 times and Mark Knopfler solo 4 times. The first time I saw Dire Straits was when they were support at this new wave /punk show. Talking Heads + Slaughter and The Dogs + Dire Straits - Roundhouse 29 Jan 1978 . Also two shows at Hammersmith Odeon in 1983 that were sponsored by Phillips who were launching their new electronic device - The CD player.....also Live Aid in 1985. See my Facebook page for a video and some photos

Posted 24th January 2024