Darling Pretty was the first solo song by Mark Knopfler I was drawn to after the 2nd and final break up of Dire Straits in 1995. It’s a beautifully crafted rock ballad about someone he adores. It was the first single released from his debut solo studio album Golden Heart and reached number 33 in the UK Singles Chart. It was also featured in the 1996 film Twister.
Following a successful career leading British rock band Dire Straits and composing a string of critically acclaimed film soundtrack albums, Knopfler recorded his first solo album, drawing upon the various musical influences he’d engaged since emerging as a major recording artist in 1978. The album reached the top-10 position on charts in Austria, Belgium, Finland, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland and the United Kingdom, but strangely peaked at 105 on the Billboard 200 in the United States.
In an interview, Knopfler mentioned that the inspiration for Darling Pretty came from his reflections on love and the passage of time. The song weaves a tender narrative, underscored by Knopfler’s evocative guitar melodies and heartfelt lyrics. It’s a love song, but with the depth and nuance that Knopfler’s fans have come to expect. Darling Pretty made its live debut during Knopfler’s Golden Heart tour in 1996. The tour marked a significant shift as Knopfler transitioned from bandleader to solo artist, embracing a more personal and introspective performance style. The inaugural concert featured a mix of Dire Straits classics and Knopfler’s new solo material, with Darling Pretty often serving as an emotional highlight of the set. It solidified Knopfler’s reputation as a solo artist capable of producing deeply resonant music.
[Verse 1]
It’s time to come away, my darling pretty
It’s time to come away on the changing tide
Time to come away, darling pretty
And I need you darling by my side
[Verse 2]
Heal me with a smile, darling pretty
Heal me with a smile and a heart of gold
Carry me awhile, my darling pretty
Heal my aching heart and soul
[Bridge]
Just like a castaway
Lost upon an endless sea
I saw you far away
Come to rescue me
[Verse 3]
Cast away the chains, darling pretty
Cast away the chains away behind
Take away my pain, my darling pretty
And the chains that once were yours and mine
[Verse 4]
There will come a day, darling pretty
There will come a day when our hearts can fly
Love will find a way, my darling pretty
Find a heaven for you and I
Love will find a way, my darling pretty
Find a heaven for you and I
References:
1. Golden Heart – Wikipedia
“The more I live, the more I learn. The more I learn, the more I realize, the less I know.”- Michel Legrand
Observation Blogger 
I never heard this one…it’s a good song. I looked it up on youtube…I’ve always liked his voice and combined with the lyrics and guitar…very good.
This is not in my top tier solo songs by him, but it’s a solid song. I’m chuffed you liked it Max.
Good song!
FYI Matt. The video won’t play; it happens. I found it on YT.
I was wondering why the song received so few ‘likes’. You might have uncovered the reason, you sleuth! I’m delighted you enjoyed it. Have a wonderful day Nancy.
It’s happened to me many times!
Enjoy your Saturday, Matt. It’s very dark outside this morning and thunder storms are raging. Great weather for coffee, music and writing.
I too had to search for another video on YouTube. I’d never heard this song before, but it was well worth the search.