Mark Knopfler, ‘Redbud Tree’ – Exclusive Song Premiere

Legendary singer-songwriter and guitarist Mark Knopfler is preparing to release his new album, 'Privateering,' and he's letting readers of The Boot hear one of the new songs early via this exclusive song premiere.

'Redbud Tree' kicks off Knopfler's eighth solo album. The project, which spans a wide range of folk, rock and country, is the former Dire Straits leader's first double album.

“The older I get, the more I want to write,” he says. “Whether that is just panic at time running out, I’m not sure. I’m enjoying the process more than ever, writing, recording and playing live, I enjoy all of it. I’m almost tripping over songs.”

'Privateering' is also Knopfler's first release under the auspices of a new deal with Universal Music Group's Verve Records, where he signed after ending a 35-year relationship with Warner Brothers. The album takes its title from Knopfler's own nomadic life, wandering the world as a traveling musician.

“A privateer is what I am, really,” he states. “I really get a buzz out of having this little group of people that sallies forth across the world. I enjoy being in command of it, the band, the crew, traveling through this ever changing landscape and playing in all these different places. You get where you get without any kind of assistance, really, making your own way in the world. There are no government grants to play this music. You’re a privateer. And that’s the way I like it.”

'Privateering' is set for release on Sept. 10. It is available for pre-order here.