Mark Knopfler is best known as the guitar-slinging, story-telling frontman of Dire Straits, but did you know he also wrote several great songs that you might recognize… without thinking of him first? Let’s uncover some hidden gems written by Knopfler—songs you probably didn’t know he penned.
1. “Private Dancer” – Tina Turner
This song became a major hit for Tina Turner in 1984, but the surprising fact is: it was written by Mark Knopfler! He originally intended it for Dire Straits but felt it would work better for a woman, so he offered it to Tina—and it turned into one of her signature tracks.
2. “Storybook Love” – from The Princess Bride
Knopfler wrote and produced this dreamy ballad, performed by Willy DeVille. It served as the theme song for the beloved 1987 film The Princess Bride and even earned an Academy Award nomination.
3. “I Think I Love You Too Much” – The Jeff Healey Band
In a cool twist, Knopfler wrote this blues-rock tune—not for himself, but for The Jeff Healey Band in 1990. He not only penned it, but also contributed backing vocals and guitar.
4. “Oldest Surfer on the Beach” – Jimmy Buffett
In 2013, Jimmy Buffett’s album Songs From St. Somewhere included this reflective Mark Knopfler–written song. It’s a mellow, thoughtful track about aging and the joy of catching waves—even when you’re the “oldest surfer.”
5. “When It Comes to You” – John Anderson
Knopfler wrote this heartfelt song and recorded it with Dire Straits in 1991. A year later, country singer John Anderson covered it—with Knopfler playing guitar—and it soared to No. 3 on the U.S. country charts.
6. “Are We in Trouble Now” – Randy Travis
Another country gem: Knopfler wrote “Are We in Trouble Now” and country star Randy Travis released it in 1996. Knopfler also included his version on his solo album Golden Heart the same year.
Why Are These Songs Not Immediately Linked to Knopfler?
Mark Knopfler is an amazing storyteller and writer, but he didn’t always release songs under his name. Sometimes he decided a melody or lyric fit someone else’s voice better—or was meant for a film or another genre. That’s why many of these songs feel familiar… but feel like they belong to someone else!
| Song Title | Performer | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Private Dancer | Tina Turner | Written by Knopfler for a female voice. |
| Storybook Love | Willy DeVille | From the movie The Princess Bride. |
| I Think I Love You Too Much | The Jeff Healey Band | Knopfler wrote, sang, and played guitar! |
| Oldest Surfer on the Beach | Jimmy Buffett | A peaceful, wave-filled reflection. |
| When It Comes to You | John Anderson | Country hit—Knopfler played guitar too! |
| Are We in Trouble Now | Randy Travis / Knopfler | Released by Travis; Knopfler also has his version. |
The Hidden Hits Written by Mark Knopfler (That You Might Not Know)
