One of the original Sultans of Swing is heading to Spalding tonight (April 28) to talk about his time in one of the biggest bands of the 1980s.
Dire Straits founding bassist John Illsley is at the South Holland Centre from 8pm.
As part of the show The Life and Times of Dire Straits, he and some of his musician friends will be playing some of the London bands major songs while also explaining some of the stories behind them.
A spokesman for the South Holland Centre, said: “Along with Mark Knopfler, John was a founder member of the legendary band who, during their time together, sold more than 120 million albums.
“The evening will feature classics from the Dire Straits history and include a Q & A with led by Paul Cummins [ex-Dire Straits management}. Paul will be asking questions, during which John will reveal the story and development of the band from its humble beginnings in a council flat in South London, where songs like Sultans of Swing and Wild West End were created, to their journey to playing all over the world to millions of fans, making albums in London, New York, Montserrat and Nassau; performing and working with some of the world’s most influential and creative musicians and producers.
“John will also be joined on stage by fellow musicians from his band who will play music from the whole Dire Strait catalogue including, Money for Nothing, Brothers in Arms, Romeo and Juliet and Sultans of Swing.
“It promises to be a special, intimate evening looking into the life and times of one of the biggest rock & roll bands of all time.”
John said: “Having Mark Knopfler as songwriter, singer and guitar player in the band gave Dire Straits it’s unique character.
“It was a pleasure for me to be able to contribute to the distinctive sound of the band, and enjoy the friendship and musical journey that Mark and I shared.”
