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John Illsley: 'Mark Knopfler Is Preventing Dire Straits Reunion'

He'd love to reform though...

John Illsley: 'Mark Knopfler Is Preventing Dire Straits Reunion'
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Dire Straits bassist John Illsley has revealed that bandmate Mark Knopfler is the only thing preventing the band from reforming.

Illsley told the BBC the pair had discussed the idea “from time to time” but that Knopfler was more interested in his solo career.

Dire Straits, who split in the early 90s, were one of the 80s' biggest acts, releasing hits including 'Money For Nothing' and 'Sultans of Swing'.

Discussing his conversations wtih Knopfler, Illsley said: "He says 'Oh, I don't know whether to start getting all that stuff back together again.'

"Mark and I were the only two left in '93, so it's really up to him and I if it happens at all."

Despite Knopfler's hesitation, Illsley said he would “love to” reform. "I'm very open to doing whatever's suggested," he said.

“I think we've definitely got one more tour left in us, and probably another record too."

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  • Just do it...it would be awesome

    ~ by Linda B 4/12/2009

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  • I was too young to see them live when they were in their heyday, I really hope they do one more tour though. Please do it Knopfler!!

    ~ by Dan 7/4/2009

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  • it would be great

    ~ by wullie 7/9/2009

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  • illsley/clark/knopfler togheter again... please, knopfler, please!

    ~ by Straits 7/29/2009

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  • It should be quite easy while Mark is playing with Guy, so these guys have already a steady connection, so come on Mark just do it. Let's rock together again with your old mates!

    ~ by Fons, The Netherlands 9/11/2009

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  • Dont do it Mark! The solo stuff is fantastic

    ~ by Fin 9/17/2009

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  • please just one more never seen you live as i was to young dire straits are the reason i started playing guitar think of all the fun.

    ~ by Reg, worcester 9/18/2009

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  • Reforms seldom have the magic of the original band. The shared history is missing when they've all done different things for a decade or two. Usually they only happen when the members are desperate for money. You can't cross the same river twice.

    ~ by Combat Wombat 11/1/2009

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