Money For Nothing - Dire Straits

Discover the art of recreating one of Dire Straits' most iconic tracks with Licklibrary’s Money For Nothing guitar lesson. This comprehensive, note-for-note breakdown teaches you how to replicate Mark Knopfler’s legendary riffs and solos while exploring the techniques that define his unique style. Whether you're a beginner aiming to build confidence or a seasoned guitarist looking to refine your skills, this lesson equips you with the tools to play the song authentically while enhancing your overall guitar technique. Jamie Humphries breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

About the Guitarist: Mark Knopfler

Mark Knopfler, the lead guitarist and vocalist of Dire Straits, is celebrated for his fingerpicking mastery and distinctive tone. Known for his clean, melodic style and expert use of dynamics, Knopfler has influenced countless guitarists, combining technical prowess with emotional expressiveness. His unique approach, often using his fingers instead of a pick, contributes to his signature sound—a blend of precision, fluidity, and warmth. Knopfler’s innovative guitar work in Money For Nothing exemplifies his ability to craft unforgettable riffs that stand the test of time.

Techniques Explored in the Lesson

Fingerpicking

Knopfler’s fingerpicking is the cornerstone of Money For Nothing. This technique involves plucking the strings with your fingers rather than a pick, allowing for greater control over tone and dynamics. Learning this approach enhances your ability to articulate notes cleanly and build a more nuanced playing style.

Muted Picking

The intro riff employs palm muting to create a percussive, rhythmic feel. By lightly resting the palm of your hand on the strings near the bridge, you can control sustain and add depth to your playing. This technique is invaluable for mastering rhythmic precision and adding texture to your riffs.

Slides

Knopfler frequently uses slides to connect notes smoothly, adding a vocal-like quality to his melodies. Practicing slides improves your fretboard navigation and gives your solos a fluid, expressive feel.

Double-Stops

The iconic riff incorporates double-stops—playing two notes simultaneously—to create harmonic richness. This technique is essential for adding depth and complexity to your melodies and solos.

String Bending

String bending plays a vital role in Knopfler’s solos, allowing you to raise a note’s pitch to match his vocal-like phrasing. Mastering bends enhances your ability to convey emotion through your playing.

Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs

These techniques are used throughout the solos to create smooth, flowing lines. Hammer-ons and pull-offs build speed and agility, helping you transition seamlessly between notes.

Vibrato

Knopfler’s use of vibrato adds warmth and sustain to key notes, enhancing their emotional impact. Practicing vibrato improves your ability to control pitch and sustain, adding expressiveness to your playing.

Open String Riffs

The use of open strings in the riff provides a resonant, full-bodied sound. Mastering open-string riffs helps you incorporate ringing tones and adds complexity to your rhythm playing.

Rakes

Knopfler incorporates rakes—muting the strings before striking a note—for a dramatic, percussive effect. This technique is excellent for adding flair and dynamics to your solos.

Benefits of Learning These Techniques

• Enhanced Dynamics: Techniques like fingerpicking and vibrato teach you to vary your touch, adding depth and expression to your playing.
• Improved Articulation: Slides, hammer-ons, and pull-offs build smooth transitions between notes, making your solos more fluid and polished.
• Stronger Rhythm Skills: Muted picking and open-string riffs develop timing and percussive playing, essential for both rhythm and lead guitarists.
• Creative Expression: Techniques such as string bending, rakes, and double-stops enable you to add personality and emotion to your guitar lines.
• Technical Precision: Focusing on Knopfler’s intricate style improves your accuracy, tone control, and overall technique.

Guitar Techniques Covered

Below is a list of the guitar techniques you’ll master in this lesson, along with their corresponding links for further exploration:

• Vibrato
• Slides
• Hammer-Ons
• Pull-Offs
• Fingerpicking
• String Bending
• Double-Stops
• Palm Muting
• Rakes
• Open String Riffs

By mastering these techniques through Licklibrary’s Money For Nothing guitar lesson, you’ll not only learn to play a timeless classic but also expand your guitar repertoire and skill set. Start your journey today and bring the spirit of Dire Straits to your playing!