Dire Straits was a British rock band formed in 1977, known for their unique blend of rock, blues, and country music. The band was led by singer and guitarist Mark Knopfler, whose distinctive fingerpicking guitar style became a hallmark of their sound. They gained widespread popularity in the 1980s with hits like "Sultans of Swing" and "Money for Nothing." The band's self-titled debut album was released in 1978, followed by several successful albums, including Brothers in Arms in 1985, which featured the iconic track "Walk of Life." Dire Straits disbanded in 1995 but left a lasting impact on the music industry.