THEY were one of the biggest rock bands of the 80s and are estimated to have sold over 120 million albums.

And now a founding member of Dire Straits, John Illsley, will tell the band's amazing story in an exclusive gig at Teddington's Landmark Arts Centre.

Bass guitarist and vocalist John partnered with Dire Straits co-founder and front-man Mark Knopfler on hits including Sultans of Swing, Romeo and Juliet and Money for Nothing over the band's career.

According to The Guinness Book of British Hit Albums, Dire Straits have spent 1,100 weeks on the UK albums chart, the fifth most of all time, and their classic album Brothers in Arms sold over 30 million copies.

John, who sold out at a previous appearance at The Landmark in Teddington in 2019, is due to appear again on May 4, 2022 and tickets are already selling fast.

The evening will feature classics from the Dire Straits history and include a Q & A with Paul Cummins, who formerly managed the band.

Paul will be asking questions, during which John will reveal the story and development of the band from humble beginnings in a council flat in South London to playing all over the world to millions of fans and recording albums in New York and the Caribbean.

"Having Mark Knopfler as songwriter, singer and guitar player in the band gave Dire Straits its unique character," John said.

"It was a pleasure for me to be able to contribute to the distinctive sound of the band, and enjoy the friendship and musical journey that Mark and I shared."

John will be joined on stage by fellow musicians from his own band who will play music from the whole Dire Straits catalogue.

It promises to be a special, intimate evening looking into the life and times of one of the biggest rock and roll bands of all time.

For more information and how to book click here