This song was inspired by the Falklands War, which was going on when Dire Straits lead singer Mark Knopfler wrote the song. The Falklands War was a conflict between Argentina and the UK over islands off the coast of Argentina that each country claimed rights to. The islands are British territories, but in 1982 Argentina tried to reclaim one of the islands. Britain reclaimed their territories, but lost 258 soldiers in the conflict. In this song, Mark Knopfler sings about a soldier who is dying on the battlefield, surrounded by his comrades, who remain by his side as he slips away. It's a look at the folly of war and the plight of those who fight them. "We've got just one world but we live in different ones," he told the BBC. "It's just stupid, it really is. We're just foolish to take part in anybody's war." The title is something Knopfler's dad said. In discussing the Falklands War, he described the Brits and Argentines as "Brothers In Arms," meaning they had similar ideologies. That phrase ended up being used as the title for the album. Source: Songfacts
@@kbrewski1 It wasn't a last gasp though was it. Shows how immature you are and have absolutely no clue about the real world. Do your parents know you have internet access to post these inane comments?
Tears falling ..... This was my brother's and mine song, he died suddenly at the age of 34... It broke my heart . Now whenever I hear this I think of my little brother. Rest In Peace Nick. Gone, but forever in my heart
The cover version plays like an exercise, this plays like something deeply felt. There are two reasons why this blows the cover out of the water : Knopfler's understated, soulful voice and his guitar adding its own unique commentary. Sheer perfection.
The Home Free version was a disgusting travesty. They covered their video in American flags. The moment I saw that I hit stop, and I will never play it again.
@@donepearceYeah, that actually quite upset me when I saw it. I like a lot of Home Free's stuff, but I felt that was disrespectful to the songs intent. The song was specifically not meant to be nationalistic, the whole point to it was it didn't promote "a side."
The song is a narrative of a soldier dying in battle. His "brothers" never deserted him, but "every man has to die". Likewise for the opposition; "we are fools to make war on our brothers in arms". Mark's vocals reflect the tragic situation. His guitar cries in sympathy, as only Mark can convey. This song perfectly reflects less-is-more, but at the same time soars in spirit through the music.
I retired from the Army after 22 years in 2006 and this hits me in the feels every single time! And it seems like every time I hear it someone is cutting onions! 😢😿
@@Gantzz321 Well, no...of course not, lol! Sure, a lot of bands - present and past - sound better live on most of their songs. Certainly that tends to be the case for bands who have complete mastery of their instruments. But to say that ANY live version of a song a band has made is not just better than the studio version, but 100000x better, is next-level ridiculousness. And besides, the post was specifically about the 1988 Wembley Stadium version of this song - which indeed is absolutely mind-blowing, and which is an absolute must-listen for any Dire Straits fan, or any fan of this song.
@@cmsmhp gotta say you said WELL NO... then didn't state one single reason or example, so you mind is saying one thing and you comment showed another, oh well so we don't agree I guess
@@Gantzz321 LMAO, I need not actually state any example, because your blanket statement is so ridiculous on its face - especially the 10000x part. But if you have a favorite live version of this song, feel free to share.
They performed a live version of this at a tribute concert to Nelson Mandela marking his 70th birthday. Mark looked very emotional performing and had Eric Clapton on rhythm guitar. That version is absolutely sublime!! Thank you for a great and heartfelt reaction. Take care and warmest wishes from the UK
That was the right version, thank you! The shorter version cuts the whole instrumental outro. I liked your reaction a lot. The live version with Eric Clapton is great
Studio version of Telegraph Road followed by a live version. Really has the story telling element and the incredibly musicianship. I'm sure you'd appreciate and enjoy it.
There have been several versions of this iconic song performed by Mark Knopfler, but my favorite was the Nelson Mandela Birthday celebration video live. Mark's haunting guitar solo just chilled me to the bone. Thanks so much for doing this one Phil and Sam!! Have a great week!!
I believe that Prince was once asked, how does it feel to be the best guitarist in the world and he replied well you better ask Mark Knopfler, Kudos to both.
Today marks 2 months since my dad passed away at age 78. Dire straits was his favorite group hands down. This song has popped up in my YT feed a lot yesterday and today which is crazy!!! Anyway, I’ve heard this song plenty of times, and it’s nice to see and hear someone react to it for the first time and see them in disbelief. Mark knopfler guitar playing is so good and has such a distinct sound. I truly enjoyed your reaction. Thanks for giving me a fond memory of my dad
I love this song, it was always played in our Post Patrol breifing in NI in the early 90's. We use to get bombed, bricked, bottled, shot at, petrol bombed, you name it. 30 years on, this song has stuck with me.
I really like your approach to do the studio version regardless of what people say and then do a live version for comparison as well. Brother in Arms is my all time favorite song. With the emotions that guitar triggers it's dangerous to listen to it in public, since you'll never know if you don't start crying. This is especially true with the live version I would highly recommend: It's from the "On the Night" live album and there is also a video so you can see them play as well: ruclips.net/video/4haa3ElkrrM/видео.htmlsi=BGIDL00HKSVHrn9W
Nothing wrong with this version. The Video version is shorter, but the video itself is amazing, Live versions, there are a few good ones to chose from. I would recommend the Nelson Mandela Birthday event in 1988 from Wembley. It was a great version where you could hear Mark's emotion (which you always can) but also Eric Clapton joined them to do it.
Boy, can Mark make a guitar cry. One of my favourite guitarists. Glad to hear you'll react to a live version too, may I suggest the 1992 concert in Nimes, France. So many fantastic Dire Straits song to choose from but another one where the guitar is given room to breathe is "Wild Theme", it was the encore and a great end to one of the best concerts I've seen.
I've enjoyed many guitarists over the years. I've heard them make a guitar cry, scream, shout and wail. Mark Knopfler is the only guitarist I've truly heard make a guitar weep gently.
Played at so many UK service personnel funerals, my father had it, I've got it booked in for mine. Written from the perspective of a dying soldier surrounded my his mates.
The guitar playing reflects the mood throughout the song but is most heartrending when it goes from the "The moon's riding high" to the depths of "everyman has to die". It's an emotional tour de force.
Brothers in Arms was the very first CD I purchased in early 80s. It's a masterpiece, every track. In my top 5 all time. My others favorites from this album include Ride Across the River, Man's Too Strong and One World.
Maybe you should have bought the vinyl and just played Side 2! 😃 It was the first album I ever bought, on vinyl, and the first CD in the world to sell a million copies. It was the biggest selling UK album of all time when it was released and is still in the top 10 today. Truly magnificent. It won the Brit award for best album... in 1987, two years after it was released. Mark seemed somewhat bemused by that when he collected the award!
Ride Across the RIver is one of the best songs to test out whether you have a good combo of speakers and amp for your stereo. The range of sound on "Ride.." particularly in the opening is so amazingly full.
This was a must have album when it came out, and this song quickly became my favorite one. This is a perfect song from start to end and filled with so much emotion.
I'm so glad you reacted to this amazing song, but what a shame you didn't watch the official video. It really is the most extraordinary and moving work of art. So emotional and so powerful when watched in conjunction with the beautiful music. A work of pure genius. Mark Knopfler really is one of the all-time greats.
I think it's a very good idea to go for studio versions first. If for no other reason, to be able to compare the original to live versions later. There are a few blocking groups where live versions may be your only alternative, and a few instances like Queen at Live Aid where the live version is worth a listen in and of itself.
GREAT reaction!! Yes, it's the correct version...the album, which has the extended guitar outro. Can't help but get misty eyed with this track. Cheers.
Great reaction Sam and Phil! The guitar in this song is absolutely beautiful. My thoughts on song versions: there are going to be multiple versions of popular / great songs. You can't do them all. IF you decide to react to multiple versions, pick the top two requested and then move on. You won't please everyone, but that's completely normal.
Its slow and quiet at the start but builds in intensity because its a funeral dirge. Its a song about saying farewells to his brothers in arms on the battlefield before they go to battle. The line "every man has to die" gets me every time. Its a song about the bonds of soldiers with the added perspective of the absurdity of soldiers dying on both sides, for what? A little territory? A hill? An island? So its also an anti war song while honoring the senseless deaths of brothers in arms. This whole Brothers in Arms album is packed full of gems. One of the best albums of the 80s, impeccably recorded. Your Latest Trick, Walk of Life, Ride Across the River, just gems. On the Night is a great live video which showcases the band at their peak.
The album was certified 10x platinum in the U.K. and 9x in the US and sold 30,000,000 copies worldwide. It has spent 356 weeks on the U.K. Album Charts.
The drummer on this Album (all songs) was actually a session drummer called Omar Hakim. He happened to be on Montserrat with Sting when DS where recording this. MK felt Terry Williams wasn't 'up to the job' and got Hakim to play drums after only a week of learning the tracks. The only drums by Terry is the crescendo at the start of Money for Nothing. But Terry is an absolute fantastic drummer, as can be heard on Sultans of Swing Alchemy version. Omar Hakim isn't mentioned in the credits.
mark Knopfler was able to announce his soul in this song, not many people can do this world wide, only other for me is Van Morrsion and to a lesser extent Eric Clapton.
That was the studio/LP version, exactly the same as the offical video version except that one had about two minutes cut off the end of it. So yes, the 'right' version. But all Dire Straits live concert versions differed, I've got SIX different versions (including this one) on my MP3 player. All different but all, of course, played by Mark Knopfler. The Mandela one is pretty good, my pick for the best is the one from 'On the Night' album but they're all good. It's a bit like comparing different vintages of a fine wine.
Next month June i will visit Normandy for the commemorations and to meet some veterans who are still with us, this song is very apt, i will also visit Bayeux military cemetery where a relative is buried he was killed on the 18th June 1944 after landing on Gold Beach along with 8 other Brothers in arms from the same battalion on the same day, the engagement with the Germans was between Bayeux and Caen he was just 17 years old.
It was written about the Falklands, an extreme battle in an extreme environment. A very long way from Britain. It would have felt isolated. Many returning veterans want to find a remote piece of land and live the rest of their lives away from the troubles of man. If they get back home. Before Brothers in Arms, there were several remembrance like songs favoured by veterans. Today, I believe it is the most resonance to soldiers. 🤘✌️🎸
This version works for me, as it was the way I first heard it and (along with the rest of the album) listened to night after night when it came out....(this album and Gaucho, what a way to relax).
Mark Knopfler is a master in telling a story both with his voice and his guitar. Probably one of the most underrated guitarplayers in the world. Writing, composing, playing and singing his own songs, not many people have that ability. I think the live version of the "on the night" tour is even more beautiful and absolutely worth listening to. In that version there is a great contribution of the great pedal steel guitarplayer Paul Franklin and other instrumentals by Chris White and Alan Clark.
He uses an amazing volume pedal technique in this . he strikes the string and then brings the volume on so it comes in hauntingly instead of all at once with the strike.
The band's official drummer at that time was Terry Williams, but when they started recording this album, Mark Knopfler didn't like his drum parts and hired jazz fusion drummer Omar Hakim to record the drums. The only drum part by Terry Williams that was used in the final mix is the improvisation he did on the intro of "Money For Nothing"
Some day, when you guys have some down time, watch the official video for this. You don't have to react to it, but I think you'll love what it adds. It's pretty amazing.
Nah, this is the full version. The video's great, but you don't need visuals for Dire Straits and Mark Knopfler songs. You can just close your eyes, listen to the lyrics and the images will appear in your mind's eye.
Mark is brilliant, and this is his opus. The fifth verse is so topical and emotional today. Sir Mark is probably one of the six best guitarists in history, with only two currently living. Check out his Sultans of Swing from 1977.
Dire Straits, it's always better to hear the live version, always. Rare is the song that got better in the studio. Nimes 1992 is one of greatest versions of Brothers in Arms, or in Mandela live 1988...
Great reaction really can't go wrong with any version of the song. But I really enjoyed the Dire Straits - Brothers in arms [Live in Nimes -92] version.
Mark Knopfler is rock royalty. He just gets better with time, eschewing the flamboyance I find so annoying in other aging rockers. He’s genuine and ever so talented.
Love this song - so emotional. Makes me well up with tears whenever I hear it because my younger son received a 4 year ROTC scholarship, which he had to decline due to a problem with his lower back. I think about if he had gone into the army and ended up in harms way. BTW - the video version is better because it adds to the emotional backdrop of the song.
I cannot imagine someone being a Straits fan and not recommending a live version. Personally, I dont care which one. Mark is always freaking amazing. Thank you for this one, however. I heard someone describe it as Mark singing and his guitar answering. I like that.
jason, I have always thought that people new to the music I grew up with should start with the studio version first, as we first heard it, then check out various live versions to see what the artist has done to it over time.
“Mark Knopfler has an extraordinary ability to make a Schecter Custom Stratocaster hoot and sing like angels on a Saturday night, exhausted from being good all week and needing a stiff drink.” - Douglas Adams (So Long, and Thanks for All the Fish) Although of course, in this case it's a '58 Les Paul.
There is no wrong version of this Song! I remember the first time I heard this I had gone into a record store to buy an album by Phil Collins and this was playing. I was with my youngest daughter who was about 3 at the time and she just went and sat by a speaker and didn't move. I bought this album as well!
Depeche Mode "never let me down, personal Jesus" and their latest "Ghosts again" another brilliant UK band you must try, they are also great live......
I personally like the live version from the Nelson Mandela concert (1988?) the most. It have Eric Clapton also. But of course everybody have his own favorite. Keep up the the good work, cheers from Berlin, Germany 👍☘️😎
Right version 100% 👌👏 Nothing worse than people cutting the endings of music-videos, when so often (especially guitarists) put in some epic little gems in the outro of their songs :)
There's a line in "Sultans" that I think of when I hear this song: "Check out Guitar George. He knows all the chords, but it's strictly rhythm; he doesn't want to make it cry or sing." NO ONE can make a guitar cry like Mark Knopfler and "Brothers in Arms" is the best example of this. This song still wrecks me, after all these years.
There is a documentary about how music affects society, it was on PBS. Mark K’ told he was informed by some British military, that during the first Gulf War, this song was played by a Tank crew. When the land war began (early 1991) and soldiers and tanks went into Iraq from Saudi A’, at night, the CD of this album, played this song to a group of British tanks. Mark K’ was very emotional that his song was played to soldiers in warfare.
![KSI - Thick Of It (feat. Trippie Redd) [Official Lyric Video]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/tXEPbotEjZE/mqdefault.jpg)
This song was inspired by the Falklands War, which was going on when Dire Straits lead singer Mark Knopfler wrote the song. The Falklands War was a conflict between Argentina and the UK over islands off the coast of Argentina that each country claimed rights to. The islands are British territories, but in 1982 Argentina tried to reclaim one of the islands. Britain reclaimed their territories, but lost 258 soldiers in the conflict.
In this song, Mark Knopfler sings about a soldier who is dying on the battlefield, surrounded by his comrades, who remain by his side as he slips away. It's a look at the folly of war and the plight of those who fight them. "We've got just one world but we live in different ones," he told the BBC. "It's just stupid, it really is. We're just foolish to take part in anybody's war."
The title is something Knopfler's dad said. In discussing the Falklands War, he described the Brits and Argentines as "Brothers In Arms," meaning they had similar ideologies. That phrase ended up being used as the title for the album. Source: Songfacts
Argentina can't reclaim what they never had
They tried to take all of the Falklands and S Georgia.
@penderyn8794...from looking it up, it seems to mention just the Falklands on every source I can find...
It has a much more universal meaning about the absurdity of war than that silly skirmish over a few islands. The last gasp of a once great empire.....
@@kbrewski1 It wasn't a last gasp though was it. Shows how immature you are and have absolutely no clue about the real world. Do your parents know you have internet access to post these inane comments?
I served eighteen years in he British Army, and we always play this amongst others on Remembrance Day to remember our Fallen Comrades Lest We Forget.
Tears falling ..... This was my brother's and mine song, he died suddenly at the age of 34... It broke my heart . Now whenever I hear this I think of my little brother. Rest In Peace Nick. Gone, but forever in my heart
The cover version plays like an exercise, this plays like something deeply felt. There are two reasons why this blows the cover out of the water : Knopfler's understated, soulful voice and his guitar adding its own unique commentary. Sheer perfection.
What "cover" version are people talking about? THIS is the only version that matters.
@@kbrewski1Yeah, I never understand why you would cover a song like this - there is nothing you can add. Only take away.
The Home Free version was a disgusting travesty. They covered their video in American flags. The moment I saw that I hit stop, and I will never play it again.
@@donepearce
I despise when people try to twist and subvert the meaning of a song. Like what Double R tried to do with Springsteen's Born in the USA.
@@donepearceYeah, that actually quite upset me when I saw it. I like a lot of Home Free's stuff, but I felt that was disrespectful to the songs intent. The song was specifically not meant to be nationalistic, the whole point to it was it didn't promote "a side."
The song is a narrative of a soldier dying in battle. His "brothers" never deserted him, but "every man has to die". Likewise for the opposition; "we are fools to make war on our brothers in arms".
Mark's vocals reflect the tragic situation. His guitar cries in sympathy, as only Mark can convey.
This song perfectly reflects less-is-more, but at the same time soars in spirit through the music.
Exactly, written about the Falklands conflict.
I retired from the Army after 22 years in 2006 and this hits me in the feels every single time! And it seems like every time I hear it someone is cutting onions! 😢😿
I think it's a Masterpiece
i hear ya. hope your well
This is the Origional the song was written by Mark Knoffler & relates to a dying soldier during the Falklands War !!
I don't believe anyone can make a guitar tell a story like Mark Knopfler does, he's amazing.
Agreed. Tough to cover this song. Unless, you are in the top 20 guitarists ever
Comfortably numb makes me astonished and amazed.
Brothers in arms makes me cry. Every time.
You are both great, poweful gods of music.
Wel said!
This song was written and sung by the great guitarist Mark Knofler and the live version is amazing!!
Thanks, we know!
It’s actually Knopfler, not Knofler…
@@guyro3373 You taking the "p"?? 😂
@@CB-xr1eg Not currently, just correcting the spelling in case somebody wanted to search for Mark and was wondering why they did not find that much...
@@guyro3373 r/whoosh
"And we have just one world, But we live in different ones" Such a great lyrics(thought), so simple, yet so true.
That’s what I thought the lyrics were, but it’s ’we live in different worlds’, but I think living in different ones works as well
Timeless - this classic has no shelf life , and I love how immersed you both get into the music
The live version at wembley nelson mandela concert is mind blowing
can we just agree that ANY live version would be 100000x better than a studio version when it comes to BANDS
@@Gantzz321 Well, no...of course not, lol! Sure, a lot of bands - present and past - sound better live on most of their songs. Certainly that tends to be the case for bands who have complete mastery of their instruments. But to say that ANY live version of a song a band has made is not just better than the studio version, but 100000x better, is next-level ridiculousness. And besides, the post was specifically about the 1988 Wembley Stadium version of this song - which indeed is absolutely mind-blowing, and which is an absolute must-listen for any Dire Straits fan, or any fan of this song.
@@cmsmhp gotta say you said WELL NO... then didn't state one single reason or example, so you mind is saying one thing and you comment showed another, oh well so we don't agree I guess
@@Gantzz321 LMAO, I need not actually state any example, because your blanket statement is so ridiculous on its face - especially the 10000x part. But if you have a favorite live version of this song, feel free to share.
They performed a live version of this at a tribute concert to Nelson Mandela marking his 70th birthday. Mark looked very emotional performing and had Eric Clapton on rhythm guitar. That version is absolutely sublime!! Thank you for a great and heartfelt reaction. Take care and warmest wishes from the UK
The best 100%
The Live at Mandela version is incredible!
I worked on the show and yes it was brilliant.
That was the right version, thank you! The shorter version cuts the whole instrumental outro. I liked your reaction a lot. The live version with Eric Clapton is great
Thank you! Eric Clapton feature sounds awesome!
The 1992 live version is the bomb!
Studio version of Telegraph Road followed by a live version. Really has the story telling element and the incredibly musicianship. I'm sure you'd appreciate and enjoy it.
Telegraph road is their crown jewel. A true diamond in the rough.
There have been several versions of this iconic song performed by Mark Knopfler, but my favorite was the Nelson Mandela Birthday celebration video live. Mark's haunting guitar solo just chilled me to the bone. Thanks so much for doing this one Phil and Sam!! Have a great week!!
100%
Thanks Ken! Our pleasure, and you too!
I believe that Prince was once asked, how does it feel to be the best guitarist in the world and he replied well you better ask Mark Knopfler, Kudos to both.
This is a great song. The live version from the birthday concert for Nelson Mandela is amazing.
Today marks 2 months since my dad passed away at age 78. Dire straits was his favorite group hands down. This song has popped up in my YT feed a lot yesterday and today which is crazy!!! Anyway, I’ve heard this song plenty of times, and it’s nice to see and hear someone react to it for the first time and see them in disbelief. Mark knopfler guitar playing is so good and has such a distinct sound. I truly enjoyed your reaction. Thanks for giving me a fond memory of my dad
May your dad RIP, so sorry for your loss. Glad we could revive his memory for you!
I love this song, it was always played in our Post Patrol breifing in NI in the early 90's. We use to get bombed, bricked, bottled, shot at, petrol bombed, you name it. 30 years on, this song has stuck with me.
this song regularly brings me to tears! live version is amazing! 1985!
One of the most sad songs ever! I cried all times that I listened! I LOVE DIRE STRAITS! GREAT REACTION, GUYS!
I really like your approach to do the studio version regardless of what people say and then do a live version for comparison as well. Brother in Arms is my all time favorite song. With the emotions that guitar triggers it's dangerous to listen to it in public, since you'll never know if you don't start crying. This is especially true with the live version I would highly recommend: It's from the "On the Night" live album and there is also a video so you can see them play as well: ruclips.net/video/4haa3ElkrrM/видео.htmlsi=BGIDL00HKSVHrn9W
The live version begins with the crowd singing along & is very touching.
Nothing wrong with this version. The Video version is shorter, but the video itself is amazing, Live versions, there are a few good ones to chose from. I would recommend the Nelson Mandela Birthday event in 1988 from Wembley. It was a great version where you could hear Mark's emotion (which you always can) but also Eric Clapton joined them to do it.
I went to that concert. It's the best live performance of the song in my opinion
Yes I love the video version,but I love the song,so all versions are beautiful,to me.
Knopfler, Clapton, great combination, they feed off eack other so well.
"One humanity. One justice"
@@jjc5407 Yes, I love that quote.
Boy, can Mark make a guitar cry. One of my favourite guitarists. Glad to hear you'll react to a live version too, may I suggest the 1992 concert in Nimes, France. So many fantastic Dire Straits song to choose from but another one where the guitar is given room to breathe is "Wild Theme", it was the encore and a great end to one of the best concerts I've seen.
I've enjoyed many guitarists over the years. I've heard them make a guitar cry, scream, shout and wail. Mark Knopfler is the only guitarist I've truly heard make a guitar weep gently.
Played at so many UK service personnel funerals, my father had it, I've got it booked in for mine. Written from the perspective of a dying soldier surrounded my his mates.
The guitar playing reflects the mood throughout the song but is most heartrending when it goes from the "The moon's riding high" to the depths of "everyman has to die". It's an emotional tour de force.
And it s the whole album. Every track is great. Nothing mediocre, all great, and some outstanding.
Brothers in Arms was the very first CD I purchased in early 80s. It's a masterpiece, every track. In my top 5 all time.
My others favorites from this album include Ride Across the River, Man's Too Strong and One World.
first record i bought was Highway to Hell, first CD was Brothers in Arms. Still love both.
Maybe you should have bought the vinyl and just played Side 2! 😃
It was the first album I ever bought, on vinyl, and the first CD in the world to sell a million copies. It was the biggest selling UK album of all time when it was released and is still in the top 10 today. Truly magnificent. It won the Brit award for best album... in 1987, two years after it was released. Mark seemed somewhat bemused by that when he collected the award!
Ride Across the RIver is one of the best songs to test out whether you have a good combo of speakers and amp for your stereo. The range of sound on "Ride.." particularly in the opening is so amazingly full.
Finally a reaction video for this song. It has always been one of my favorites. Beautiful guitar work in this song
This was a must have album when it came out, and this song quickly became my favorite one. This is a perfect song from start to end and filled with so much emotion.
I'm so glad you reacted to this amazing song, but what a shame you didn't watch the official video. It really is the most extraordinary and moving work of art. So emotional and so powerful when watched in conjunction with the beautiful music. A work of pure genius. Mark Knopfler really is one of the all-time greats.
I think it's a very good idea to go for studio versions first. If for no other reason, to be able to compare the original to live versions later. There are a few blocking groups where live versions may be your only alternative, and a few instances like Queen at Live Aid where the live version is worth a listen in and of itself.
How it should be
The version of this song live at Nelson Mandela's birthday concert is the best of all. Mark was emotional as he played it.
Such a brilliant song and performance. Almost all their songs are perfect. So much more than their known hits
I just love the whole album ❤
GREAT reaction!! Yes, it's the correct version...the album, which has the extended guitar outro. Can't help but get misty eyed with this track. Cheers.
West Wing…, emotional, powerful, awesome! And I’m Canadian 🇨🇦 Very American, a British band making a Canadian shed a tear for an American President
Great reaction Sam and Phil! The guitar in this song is absolutely beautiful.
My thoughts on song versions: there are going to be multiple versions of popular / great songs. You can't do them all. IF you decide to react to multiple versions, pick the top two requested and then move on. You won't please everyone, but that's completely normal.
The first proper band I ever saw live. They were absolutely magnificent, and it's still my favourite concert. Fantastic albums, but even better live.
The best version of this song is definitely the "On the Night" live version. So damn good ^^
Its slow and quiet at the start but builds in intensity because its a funeral dirge. Its a song about saying farewells to his brothers in arms on the battlefield before they go to battle. The line "every man has to die" gets me every time. Its a song about the bonds of soldiers with the added perspective of the absurdity of soldiers dying on both sides, for what? A little territory? A hill? An island? So its also an anti war song while honoring the senseless deaths of brothers in arms.
This whole Brothers in Arms album is packed full of gems. One of the best albums of the 80s, impeccably recorded. Your Latest Trick, Walk of Life, Ride Across the River, just gems.
On the Night is a great live video which showcases the band at their peak.
The album was certified 10x platinum in the U.K. and 9x in the US and sold 30,000,000 copies worldwide. It has spent 356 weeks on the U.K. Album Charts.
The drummer on this Album (all songs) was actually a session drummer called Omar Hakim. He happened to be on Montserrat with Sting when DS where recording this. MK felt Terry Williams wasn't 'up to the job' and got Hakim to play drums after only a week of learning the tracks. The only drums by Terry is the crescendo at the start of Money for Nothing. But Terry is an absolute fantastic drummer, as can be heard on Sultans of Swing Alchemy version. Omar Hakim isn't mentioned in the credits.
Mark is such a master at phrasing and knowing how to use space/silence.
mark Knopfler was able to announce his soul in this song, not many people can do this world wide, only other for me is Van Morrsion and to a lesser extent Eric Clapton.
That was the studio/LP version, exactly the same as the offical video version except that one had about two minutes cut off the end of it. So yes, the 'right' version. But all Dire Straits live concert versions differed, I've got SIX different versions (including this one) on my MP3 player. All different but all, of course, played by Mark Knopfler. The Mandela one is pretty good, my pick for the best is the one from 'On the Night' album but they're all good. It's a bit like comparing different vintages of a fine wine.
Lovely intro guys, honest with a backbone ❤👍
This was my first CD, all the premium Dire Straits albums where LP's.
Next month June i will visit Normandy for the commemorations and to meet some veterans who are still with us, this song is very apt, i will also visit Bayeux military cemetery where a relative is buried he was killed on the 18th June 1944 after landing on Gold Beach along with 8 other Brothers in arms from the same battalion on the same day, the engagement with the Germans was between Bayeux and Caen he was just 17 years old.
It was written about the Falklands, an extreme battle in an extreme environment. A very long way from Britain. It would have felt isolated. Many returning veterans want to find a remote piece of land and live the rest of their lives away from the troubles of man. If they get back home. Before Brothers in Arms, there were several remembrance like songs favoured by veterans. Today, I believe it is the most resonance to soldiers. 🤘✌️🎸
Whatever version it was, leaning back with headphones, and tears in your closed eyes must be THE right version.
Perfect version all my family have served in the armed service from the army to RAF to the navy this song is so sad and beautiful at the same time
This version works for me, as it was the way I first heard it and (along with the rest of the album) listened to night after night when it came out....(this album and Gaucho, what a way to relax).
I could listen to Mark Knopfler’s guitar for hours!
I bought this when it was released back in 1985. It was. one if not the first (DDD) recorded CD's. (Digitally recorded). The entire album is stelar!
This is the one that makes those who served cry.
Mark Knopfler is a master in telling a story both with his voice and his guitar. Probably one of the most underrated guitarplayers in the world. Writing, composing, playing and singing his own songs, not many people have that ability. I think the live version of the "on the night" tour is even more beautiful and absolutely worth listening to. In that version there is a great contribution of the great pedal steel guitarplayer Paul Franklin and other instrumentals by Chris White and Alan Clark.
Great song was used in one of the best episodes of “Miami Vice” excellent! Thanks y’all
He uses an amazing volume pedal technique in this . he strikes the string and then brings the volume on so it comes in hauntingly instead of all at once with the strike.
Covers can be great, and although Home Free are _amazing,_ they've got nothing on this. This is pure emotion.
It was indeed the right version. One word sums up Mark Knoffler’s guitar playing. Tasteful.
The band's official drummer at that time was Terry Williams, but when they started recording this album, Mark Knopfler didn't like his drum parts and hired jazz fusion drummer Omar Hakim to record the drums. The only drum part by Terry Williams that was used in the final mix is the improvisation he did on the intro of "Money For Nothing"
Terry did return for the tour and although it's not him playing the drums on the track he is in the video for this song.
Some day, when you guys have some down time, watch the official video for this. You don't have to react to it, but I think you'll love what it adds. It's pretty amazing.
I feel like the voice tells the story and the guitar is the pain of the dieing soldier.
Mark Knofler's guitar always makes me cry.
Should have done the video version, even harder hitting, provides extra context too.
Nah, this is the full version. The video's great, but you don't need visuals for Dire Straits and Mark Knopfler songs. You can just close your eyes, listen to the lyrics and the images will appear in your mind's eye.
UK legends, Great post of a true classic song......
The video version is worth the watch now that you've heard this.
Mark is brilliant, and this is his opus. The fifth verse is so topical and emotional today. Sir Mark is probably one of the six best guitarists in history, with only two currently living. Check out his Sultans of Swing from 1977.
Dire Straits, it's always better to hear the live version, always. Rare is the song that got better in the studio. Nimes 1992 is one of greatest versions of Brothers in Arms, or in Mandela live 1988...
You should check out Telegraph Road (alchemy live version).it’s a long song but it’s absolutely phenomenal 😊
“I didn’t want to stop it,” but it itched like everyone else.
This song is perfect.
Great reaction really can't go wrong with any version of the song. But I really enjoyed the Dire Straits - Brothers in arms [Live in Nimes -92] version.
No one mentioned Tunnel of Love. My favorite is Wembley 85. Love the solo
There is also a performance in Berlin, 2007, with a full orchestra.
Mark Knopfler is rock royalty. He just gets better with time, eschewing the flamboyance I find so annoying in other aging rockers. He’s genuine and ever so talented.
I'd really love to listen to this LIVE!!
Love this song - so emotional. Makes me well up with tears whenever I hear it because my younger son received a 4 year ROTC scholarship, which he had to decline due to a problem with his lower back. I think about if he had gone into the army and ended up in harms way. BTW - the video version is better because it adds to the emotional backdrop of the song.
I cannot imagine someone being a Straits fan and not recommending a live version. Personally, I dont care which one. Mark is always freaking amazing. Thank you for this one, however. I heard someone describe it as Mark singing and his guitar answering. I like that.
jason, I have always thought that people new to the music I grew up with should start with the studio version first, as we first heard it, then check out various live versions to see what the artist has done to it over time.
Sorry, I did not mean to imply otherwise. I only meant that it didn't matter which live version they picked next.
One of the most haunting songs ever 😢
Listen to that guitar sing like an angel. Oh it's heaven.
“Mark Knopfler has an extraordinary ability to make a Schecter Custom Stratocaster hoot and sing like angels on a Saturday night, exhausted from being good all week and needing a stiff drink.” - Douglas Adams (So Long, and Thanks for All the Fish)
Although of course, in this case it's a '58 Les Paul.
Brothers In Arms On the Night is hands down the best live version
I like his great voice as comments and her nice voice comments ❤
UM GRANDE ALBUM SIM SENHORA...VARIAS EXELENTES MUSICAS
"You're Latest Trick" is the best deep track on this masterpiece album.
Knopfler is also a great songwriter. And very varied. Private Dancer.
There is no wrong version of this Song! I remember the first time I heard this I had gone into a record store to buy an album by Phil Collins and this was playing. I was with my youngest daughter who was about 3 at the time and she just went and sat by a speaker and didn't move. I bought this album as well!
You need to watch the video!!!
Title track of their most successful album,an album that really boosted CD sales in general 🎩
Depeche Mode "never let me down, personal Jesus" and their latest "Ghosts again" another brilliant UK band you must try, they are also great live......
I personally like the live version from the Nelson Mandela concert (1988?) the most. It have Eric Clapton also.
But of course everybody have his own favorite.
Keep up the the good work, cheers from Berlin, Germany
👍☘️😎
Right version 100% 👌👏 Nothing worse than people cutting the endings of music-videos, when so often (especially guitarists) put in some epic little gems in the outro of their songs :)
There's a line in "Sultans" that I think of when I hear this song: "Check out Guitar George. He knows all the chords, but it's strictly rhythm; he doesn't want to make it cry or sing." NO ONE can make a guitar cry like Mark Knopfler and "Brothers in Arms" is the best example of this. This song still wrecks me, after all these years.
A very emotive powerful soul searching song written by knopfler during the Falklands war
There is a documentary about how music affects society, it was on PBS. Mark K’ told he was informed by some British military, that during the first Gulf War, this song was played by a Tank crew. When the land war began (early 1991) and soldiers and tanks went into Iraq from Saudi A’, at night, the CD of this album, played this song to a group of British tanks. Mark K’ was very emotional that his song was played to soldiers in warfare.
From Dire Straits, "Your Latest Trick" it is my favorite one. It is a must for you to hear.