Would Cover Bands Hurl if I Asks for ‘Sultans of Swing’?
When you hire a cover band for a party or an event, their primary job is to entertain. They don’t come equipped to judge your taste in music. However, a bit of respect and consideration can go a long way, especially if you're about to request one of their most iconic tunes, ‘Sultans of Swing’.
Understanding the Cover Band’s Role
When I ask my band for song requests, I're not lying when I say, “There are 4 million 279 songs out there… we know 54 of them.” This means there's a wide range of songs they can play, but it’s often limited by the familiarity they have. Occasionally, I do take requests and I'll even jot them down on a $20 bill for slow delivery, as it's not exactly easy to remember every song in their repertoire. To give you a better idea, I once played ‘Sultans of Swing’ on bass, which was a very fun experience.
If you're feeling generous, why not give the guitarist a $50 bill instead? Not only does it make them smile, but it also allows them to perform one of their most beloved songs. And who knows, they might even add it to their setlist permanently!
Respecting the Guitarist
‘Sultans of Swing’ is a song that requires skilled execution, especially by the guitarist. Mark Knopfler’s distinctive guitar work is iconic, and it often sets the tone for the entire performance. If the guitarist can pull off all the intricate parts, then go ahead and make the request. But if they struggle with the guitar parts, it might not come out as expected. For those parts, Mr. Knopfler plays the horn section lines on guitar, and that takes a lot of skill.
So, before you request ‘Sultans of Swing,’ make sure the guitarist can play it. Otherwise, it might not sound right at all. Clear communication can help ensure that the performance meets everyone's expectations.
Band’s Own Interpretation
It's worth noting that different bands may have different approaches to their song requests. Some might be more stringent about their setlist, while others may be more open to changes. Personally, I’ve played this song for decades, so even if the band doesn’t nail it perfectly, they always bring their own unique interpretation to the stage. They might not sound exactly like Dire Straits, but that's part of the fun in live performance.
So, if they are part of a band that plays rock music from the 70s and 80s and they have a good guitarist, they shouldn’t have an issue with a request. They may not be as precise as Dire Straits, but it’s certainly a respectable request.
Lastly, keep in mind that cover bands often love it when fans show enthusiasm for their favorite songs. Not only does it make them happy, but it also ensures a better performance for everyone.