In conversation with Guy Fletcher

Initially landing a role as a tea boy and runner, Guy Fletcher’s passion for music and technology evolved from his bedroom studio as a teenager, to playing with several well-known bands in his teens, to joining Dire Straits at the age of 21 as their keyboard player for the landmark album ‘Brothers in Arms’. Guy continued with Dire Straits, co-producing their final album ‘On Every Street’ and has subsequently worked with Mark Knopfler on his musically acclaimed solo albums. Guy also creates some truly beautiful music of his own. His latest album ‘High Roads’ is launched today and is available to buy here.

QUESTIONS FOR GUY

Which British band is your biggest inspiration?

Like so many kids of the 60s it has to be the Beatles. I was however most intrigued by George Martin’s productions.

Which current artists do you admire the most?

I am inspired by a lot of the more recent indie bands such as Tame Impala, The Decemberists, Vetiver, The War on Drugs, Beach House. The list could be long as there’s so much great stuff out there.

You’ve been working with Mark Knofler since 1983. What impact has he had on you?

You could say I’ve learned a helluva lot, certainly in terms of composition and arranging. Also musical history, delving into music’s past is often more relevant than you might think.

What lessons has thirty years in the music industry taught you?

Never assume you know it all. There is always more to discover especially when working with other artists and musicians.

You come from a musical family. At what age did you realise you wanted to become a musician?

I wanted to be involved in music as long ago as I can remember, once I got over the motor racing bug at the age of 4 (Scalextric).

If there was one song you’d like to re-record, which one will it be?

'You’ve Lost That Loving Feeling' by the Righteous Brothers

What was the first song you composed?

That’s a tough one. I used to write lots of instrumental music when I was younger and when the songs came along they were nearly always unfinished…in some ways, I feel they still are!

What speakers do you have at home?

SPACED360 in the kitchen, ATC SCM25’s in my studio and Orbitsound BAR A70 in the lounge.

Why an Orbitsound speaker?

Because my TV sounds a whole lot better with Airsound technology!

You’ve got a new album on the horizon, tell us a bit about it?

Well, it’s my third, and this one took a while. Not because I was slow (which I was) but because the past few years have been so busy touring and recording with Mark Knopfler. I actually started writing for it in 2011, it’s gratifying to actually have it out there now. I also did the entire artwork design myself, that was a lot of fun.

What’s next for Guy Fletcher?

I am currently in the studio with Mark Knopfler working on a project which we are very excited about. I cannot divulge any details at the moment, a good reason to stay tuned to my new site.