Mark Knopfler, the renowned guitarist of Dire Straits, has recently opened up about how his playing ability has slightly diminished over the past few years, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic. In a candid discussion, Knopfler admitted that while he hasn’t forgotten how to play, he feels somewhat “rusty” compared to his prime. He attributes this to a combination of factors, including finding the motivation to stay sharp. The pandemic disrupted his regular routines, and like many musicians, Knopfler felt the impact on his performance. Though he reassured fans that his skills are still intact, he acknowledged the natural toll that time has taken on his craft.
Knopfler’s final headline show to date took place at the iconic Madison Square Garden in New York City on September 25, 2019. Since then, fans have been eagerly waiting for any news regarding his future performances. And now, the legendary musician has officially announced his decision to embark on his final tour, marking the end of an extraordinary live career. The tour will take place at one of Europe’s most impressive venues, the RCF Arena, which holds the title of the largest concert arena on the continent. Knopfler’s decision to host his last tour in such a grand venue highlights the significance of this moment in his musical journey.
The RCF Arena will be the setting for what promises to be a monumental event, adding Knopfler’s name to a long list of musicians who have made history with record-breaking performances. Over the years, some of the biggest concerts have drawn massive crowds, including Rod Stewart’s legendary 1994 concert on Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro, which drew over 3.5 million people, and Jean-Michel Jarre’s unforgettable performance at Moscow State University in 1997. Knopfler’s final tour may not draw numbers quite that large, but it will surely be an unforgettable moment for fans who have followed him throughout his legendary career.