5 Reasons Dire Straits' On Every Street Couldn't Escape Brothers in Arms' Shadow

Brothers in Arms sold over 30 million copies worldwide, setting an impossibly high commercial benchmark. On Every Street was seen as a commercial disappointment in comparison, even though it still sold millions.

Critics gave On Every Street mixed reviews, while Brothers in Arms was a critical and cultural phenomenon. The earlier album defined the band’s sound and legacy.

Brothers in Arms had massive hit singles like “Money for Nothing” and “Walk of Life.” On Every Street lacked a comparable radio-friendly breakout track.

The band’s lineup and creative energy had shifted by the time On Every Street was recorded. Brothers in Arms captured a peak moment that couldn’t be replicated.

The shadow of a landmark album often distorts how a follow-up is received. Sometimes the predecessor is just too big to escape.