DIRE STRAITS: Mystery
Rolling Stone magazine describes the upcoming Dire Straits induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as "shrouded in mystery," adding that "group leader Mark Knopfler has yet to comment publicly" and "there are strong indications that he does not plan on attending."
Here's the mystery part...
The day it was announced that they would be inducted, Knopfler said, "The overwhelming majority of people that I've ever mentioned it to, they all say, 'You should be in the Hall of Fame.' You realize in fact it does mean a lot to people. That's great. It's a good feeling at last."
He also indicated that if he did attend, he would most likely not perform with the original lineup. Since then, it's been confirmed that he will not be attending.
Original rhythm guitar player David Knopfler has since changed his mind about attending after being told the Rock Hall would "only pay certain expenses after telling him it was all covered."
Drummer Pick Withers has also indiicated that he had no plans on attending. "I think it'd be artificial. The music was great. I enjoyed making it. And then it's like all things, you know, success changes you and it wasn't as enjoyable as it could have been."
It does look like bassist John Illsley and keyboardists Guy Fletcher and Alan Clarke will be attending.
The only mystery that remains is who will induct them. And that also remains a mystery to all the band members too.
This year's induction ceremony is on April 14th in Cleveland. Joining Dire Straits in the Class of 2018 are The Moody Blues, Nina Simone, Sister Rosetta Tharpe, The Cars and Bon Jovi.
Highlights of the show will air on HBO on May 5th.