Mark Knopfler and Chet Atkins Tear It Up in 1987
Here’s some rare footage of two guitar legends at work. It’s Chet Atkins joined by Mark Knopfler in a 1987 performance.
The duo plays the standard “I’ll See You in My Dreams” followed by a rendition of John Lennon’s “Imagine.”
The former track appears on Atkins' and Knopfler’s 1990 collaborative album, Neck and Neck. This footage is taken from the duo’s performance at The Secret Policeman's Ball at the London Palladium in 1987.
The Secret Policeman's Ball is a long-running series of benefit shows that raise funds for Amnesty International, and features performances from musicians, comedians and more. Watch below and enjoy!
Get The Pick Newsletter
All the latest guitar news, interviews, lessons, reviews, deals and more, direct to your inbox!
Since 1980, Guitar World has been the ultimate resource for guitarists. Whether you want to learn the techniques employed by your guitar heroes, read about their latest projects or simply need to know which guitar is the right one to buy, Guitar World is the place to look.

“Play like you don’t know how to play the guitar”: That time Miles Davis stopped his entire band to give John McLaughlin some unlikely advice

“You wanted me to come on your track and do something in a Spanish style. I thought, ‘I have to show him how I do it on the whole guitar’”: Marcin shows an astounded Will Smith his virtuosic guitar technique