Dire Straits Sultans Of Swing Official Music Video Site

Released in 1978, the official music video for "Sultans of Swing" captures Dire Straits during their rise from pub-rock roots to global stardom. While the song eventually became a rock anthem, it initially missed the charts entirely upon its UK release.

'Sultans Of Swing': Dire Straits Make The Scene...Eventually Dire Straits Sultans Of Swing Official Music Video

The lyrics, which the video brings to life through the band's understated performance, were inspired by a real-life event in 1977. Released in 1978, the official music video for

The video features a straightforward , typical of late-1970s promotional clips before the high-budget MTV era. The video features a straightforward , typical of

: At the end of their set, the lead singer announced to the empty room, "Goodnight and thank you. We are the Sultans of Swing".

: It showcases a performance by the original lineup: Mark Knopfler, David Knopfler, John Illsley, and Pick Withers.

: Mark Knopfler wrote the song after watching a mediocre jazz band in a deserted South London pub on a rainy night.